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English
- Westminster Abbey
- Henry VII Lady Chapel
- Poets' Corner
- History
- Architecture
- Inside
- Coronations
- Burials and Tombs
- Choir
- Gardens
- Library & Research
- Bells
- Christmas
- Christmas in London
- London Theatre Tickets
- Harry Potter London Tours
- London Eye
- Tower of London
- Madame Tussauds London
- London To Windsor Castle Tours
- Up At The O2 Climb
- SEA LIFE London Aquarium
- London To Stonehenge Tours
- Buckingham Palace
- Tower Bridge
- The Shard
- Frameless London
- St. Paul's Cathedral
- Kew Gardens
- Hampton Court Palace
- Downton Abbey
- Churchill War Rooms
Contents
Quick facts about Westminster Abbey
- Official name: The Collegiate Church of St Peter
- Function: Cathedral
- Location: Dean's Yard, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom
- Opened in: 1269
- Area: 32,000 sq. ft
- Architectural style: Gothic
- Main architects: John of Gloucester, Henry of Reyns, Robert of Beverley, and Ptolemy Dean (there are many more architects involved but these are the primary ones)
Westminster Abbey architects
While many architects are involved in the abbey's construction, the following four are the primary ones who contributed to the making of Westminster Abbey:
John of Gloucester
John of Gloucester, a master mason, was instrumental in supervising Westminster Abbey's transformation under King Henry III in the 13th century. He integrated Gothic elements such as pointed arches, ribbed vaulting, and flying buttresses, drawing inspiration from French cathedrals to shape the Abbey's architectural style.
Henry of Reyns
Henry of Reyns, a pivotal figure in the history of English architecture, was one of the master masons who oversaw the 13th-century reconstruction of Westminster Abbey during King Henry III's reign. Influenced by the High Gothic styles of Reims, Amiens, and Chartres, he significantly shaped Westminster Abbey's iconic Gothic design.
Robert of Beverley
Robert of Beverley, the lead master mason, played a significant role in constructing Westminster Abbey. With prior experience with his work on the choir and the transept of Beverley Minster in 1260, he brought invaluable expertise. His contributions shaped the abbey’s architecture, enhancing its grandeur as a cultural landmark in England.
Ptolemy Dean
Ptolemy Dean, the Surveyor of the Fabric, since 2012, helped in preserving and enhancing this Gothic structure. Dean designed the Weston Tower, the Abbey's first significant architectural addition in over 270 years. This structure, blending "steampunk gothic" with traditional elements, allows access to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries.
Stages of construction
The new building
In 1220, Henry III laid the foundation for a new abbey but faced funding shortages. Devoted to St. Edward the Confessor, he resumed building in the grand Gothic style, employing Henry of Reyns, John of Gloucester, and Robert of Beverley. They incorporated Gothic elements like pointed arches and flying buttresses, and English features like single aisles and Purbeck marble columns.
The new nave
Only one nave was completed when Henry III died in 1272, and construction paused. A century later, Abbot Nicholas Litlyngton resumed work on the nave’s western section, sticking to the original design, but with less details. This took 150 years, with Abbot John Islip adding the Jesus chapel and completing the nave vaulting. The upper sections of the west towers remained unfinished.
Henry V’s Chantry Chapel
Henry V was buried in St. Edward’s Chapel in 1422. A grand and sculptured chantry chapel was built over his tomb, by his will. It has two turret staircases that lead to an altar above. Henry V’s Chantry Chapel was designed by John Thirske, who was probably the designer of the carved altar screen in the Confessor’s Chapel, which depicts scenes from his life.
Inside Westminster Abbey
The Lady Chapel
Built between 1503 and 1516, the Henry VII Lady Chapel was paid for by King Henry VII. Historians believe that Robert Janyns and William Vertue were its architects. Its perpendicular architecture sets it apart from the rest of the abbey. The chapel’s delicately carved fan-vaulted roof, high stained glass windows, and Tudor emblems such as the rose and portcullis add to its splendor.
About the Lady Chapel
The West Towers
The last phase of construction was the completion of the West Towers in Portland stone in 1745. Sir Christopher Wren was the designer but, the work was completed by his successor, Nicholas Hawksmoor. Designs by architects and surveyors were put forth for a central tower but this was never done — two oil paintings of the proposed central tower can be found in the Abbey’s collection.
About Westminster Abbey's bells
Latest additions
Westminster Abbey constantly sees new additions. The latest is an exterior turret with an elevator and stairs. It was designed by Ptolemy Dean and known as the Weston Tower - named after a donor. It is near the Chapter House and allows access to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries. A new building - Abbey Welcome Center - is in the works to accommodate welcome, security, and ticketing.
Westminster Abbey exterior
Exterior restorations
The exterior of Westminster Abbey has undergone restoration and renovation multiple times in different types of stones over the years. The most recent restoration was carried out from 1973-1995. A time capsule was embedded in the south side of the Abbey in 1989 to mark the completion of that side of the church. It included details of the work, photos of the workmen, and coins.
Modern Martyrs
Statues of ten modern martyrs were erected above the Great West Door of Westminster Abbey. The martyrs represent those who have been oppressed or persecuted for their faith and beliefs. Carved from limestone, these statues were unveiled at a service attended by Queen Elizabeth II in 1998. The modern martyrs include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Wang Zhiming.
The North Door
The Great North Door features various sculptures depicting Christ in Majesty blessing the Church and the World surrounded by Angels. Seated figures of the Apostles and figures in procession representing professions like music, sculpture, and history can be seen here. The central pillar at the North Door features a sculpture of the Blessed Virgin Mary with a Crowned Christ in her arms.
Lady Chapel exterior
The Lady Chapel was restored from 1808-1822. The name labels of the statues remain but the figures had disappeared or were removed during restoration. Of the nine statues, the four Ketton statues in the western niches of the buttresses are older. The new statues were erected in the early 19th century representing kings, knights, and a lady.
About the Lady ChapelWestminster Abbey interior
Gothic design
Westminster Abbey's interior is a masterclass in Gothic architecture, characterized by its towering pointed arches and elaborate ribbed vaulted ceilings that ascend nearly 102 feet. Decorative stone carvings embellish these structures, instilling a sense of awe and spiritual elevation, drawing everyone's gaze heavenward.
Stained glass windows
The Abbey's windows, glowing with ruby and sapphire stained glass, are set against a backdrop of subtle grey monochrome patterns. This bathes the interior in a mystical light, transforming the space with a kaleidoscope of colors. The Great West Window, installed in 1735, is one of the largest and most famous.
Coronation Theatre
At the heart of the Abbey lies the historic Coronation Theatre, the anointed ground where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066. It is adorned with intricate medieval wood carvings and the venerable Coronation Chair, enveloping the space with the weight of centuries of history.
Shrine of St. Edward
Positioned behind the high altar, the shrine of St. Edward the Confessor, the Abbey's 11th-century founder, stands as a poignant testament to his legacy. The shrine's ornate sculptural work and the sanctity of the saint's relics endow this sacred space with an intense spiritual profundity.
Chapter House
Octagonal in shape, the Chapter House features tiered seating for eighty monks and a central pillar that branches out to a vaulted ceiling. Its construction was completed around 1255 as a part of Henry III’s reconstruction. The abbey's Surveyor, Sir George Gilbert Scott, modified the stone vault and roof and reinstated and re-glazed the windows.
Rose window
The rose-shaped window with stained glass is a feature of Gothic architecture and can be found in the south and north transepts, designed by Sir James Thornhill. The south transept window features 11 Apostles. Some of its glass was replaced in 1902. The north transept window depicted Christ and the Apostles but was altered in the 19th century by John L. Pearson.
Book your tickets to Westminster Abbey
Frequently Asked Questions about the Westminster Abbey architecture
What materials were used in Westminster Abbey’s construction?
The prime building materials used are Caen stone, Portland stone, and Tuffeau limestone sourced from the Loire Valley.
What is the purpose of the flying buttresses in Westminster Abbey?
The flying buttresses at Westminster Abbey are a structural innovation that helps support the high vaulted ceilings and large stained-glass windows. They are a feature of Gothic architecture.
What is an interesting fact about the Westminster Abbey architecture?
The Abbey has the highest Gothic vault in England (nearly 102 feet) and it was made to seem higher by making the aisles narrow.
How has the building of Westminster Abbey evolved over time?
While the Abbey was initially constructed in the Romanesque style under Edward the Confessor, significant Gothic elements were added during the 13th century. Later additions, like the iconic towers, were designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed by Nicholas Hawksmoor in the 18th century.
How do the interior and exterior architectural designs of Westminster Abbey differ?
While the exterior of Westminster Abbey is known for its towering Gothic spires and intricate stonework, the interior is equally famous for its vaulted ceilings, cloisters, and tombs. The contrast between the towering height of the nave and the serene atmosphere inside creates a unique visitor experience.
Has the architecture of Westminster Abbey inspired other buildings?
Yes, the Abbey's Gothic architecture has influenced numerous structures across England and beyond including St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, Victoria Tower in the Palace of Westminster, Washington National Cathedral, the restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris, and several more. Its flying buttresses, large windows, and vaulted ceilings have become hallmarks of Gothic design.
Where can I buy tickets to Westminster Abbey?
Online tickets to Westminster Abbey are available here. We suggest that you pre-book your Westminster Abbey tickets to ensure your entry into the abbey.
Can visitors explore the architecture of Westminster Abbey on guided tours?
Yes, guided tours are available at Westminster Abbey, offering insights into its architectural details, including the nave, the Lady Chapel, and the West Towers. You can also learn about the craftsmanship behind the intricate stonework and stained glass.
