Westminster

Overview

Westminster is an area of central London, situated on the north bank of the River Thames and is surrounded by some of the most recognisable sights in the city. It has been the seat of royal and parliamentary power for hundreds of years. This historical quarter, popular with tourists and visitors, features some of London’s prestigious landmarks including famous Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. Both the River Thames and leafy St. James Park are moments away and are great for lunchtime strolling or a relaxing picnic after work.

Buckingham Palace has always served as the administrative headquarters of the Monarch. It has 775 rooms and its State Rooms are open to the public. Around 50,000 people are invited to the Palace each year as guests to lunches, dinners and banquets.

The famous Big Ben, located next to the Houses of Parliament, is known for its bell and was once the largest four-faced clock in the world.

Belgravia to the west of Buckingham Palace is one of the grandest residential areas in the UK.

History

Historically, the name Westminster came from the description of the area around Westminster Abbey – the famous national Church of England built around 1050, where all the English rulers have been crowned since. Westminster Abbey is also a burial place of several important figures in English history.