Standing as it does between Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, and commonly called "the parish church of the House of Commons", St Margaret's has witnessed many important events in the life of this country. This remains true in our own day but now, more than ever, St Margaret's welcomes many visitors from all over the world.
Opening Times
Monday 23 April
St Margaret's Church open: 09:30 - 15:30
The church is open to visitors at the following times:
Monday-Friday 9.30am - 3.30pm
Saturdays 9.30am - 1.30pm
Sundays 2pm - 4.30pm
Because there are occasions when unforeseen closures are necessary, those intending to visit St Margaret's are advised to check with the Vestry on 020 7654 4840 prior to their visit.
Visitor information
Because there are occasions when unforeseen closures are necessary, those intending to visit St Margaret's are advised to check with the Vestry on 020 7654 4840 prior to their visit.
History
It may seem surprising to find another large church standing so close to the might and magnificence of Westminster Abbey. Why was an additional church needed in such a position? To answer that question we have to recall that Westminster Abbey was originally a Benedictine Abbey.
Highlights
Notable features include the east window of Flemish stained glass, created to commemorate the betrothal of Catherine of Aragon to Henry VIII. Other windows commemorate Sir Walter Raleigh, executed in Old Palace Yard and then also buried in the church in 1618, the poet John Milton, a parishioner of the church, and Admiral Robert Blake.
Did you know
The parish of St Margaret’s originally covered a large area. Consequently the registers of baptisms, marriages and burials are among the most extensive in London.
Parish registers can be viewed on Find My Past.