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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 1h

Many of the records in our archive collection give a fascinating insight into life at the medieval Abbey. This account roll is the work of the cellarer - a senior monastic official responsible for the Abbey's provisions - and dates from 1357-8. #ManuscriptMonday

A photograph of a scroll of manuscript on a table top. The manuscript is handwritten in Latin in black ink.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 20h

Playwright, composer, actor and humourist Noel Coward is remembered in the Abbey with this memorial stone. He modestly described his gifts as 'a talent to amuse' - words which are inscribed on the stone. #31DaysOfGraves #Humour

A square, dark grey or black stone floor memorial plaque, slightly scratched, set within lighter stone paving. The plaque features white, elegant, serif-style engraved lettering that reads:

NOËL COWARD
Playwright · Actor
Composer
16 December 1899
26 March 1973
Buried in Jamaica
'A TALENT TO AMUSE'

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 10/10/2026

The gilt bronze tomb effigy of Margaret Beaufort shows the countess in her old age, wearing a widow's dress with a hood and long mantle. At her feet lies a yale, a mythical antelope‑like creature, whose horns have been lost in the centuries since her death. #30DaysofGraves #Missing

A high-angle shot captures a gilded bronze tomb effigy of a Lady Margaret Beaufort lying in repose, her hands joined in prayer. Her head, covered in a veil, rests on a pair of pillows, and her long, flowing gown is rendered with deep, dramatic folds. At her feet, a small, sculpted yale lies curled. The effigy is enclosed by a dark, ornate wrought-iron railing with pointed, spear-like finials.

A close-up shot of a golden yale sculpture with worn, dark patches, lying at the foot of a tomb effigy. The yale is in sharp focus, facing forward with its ears extended. A hollow cylindrical opening sits atop its head between its ears. In the soft-focused background, the draped robes and hands of a reclining figure are visible, alongside dark metal railings.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 10/10/2026

The Innocent Victims' Memorial, just outside the Abbey's Great West Door, remembers all those who have suffered death, torture and oppression throughout the world. The memorial was designed by Irish sculptor Ken Thompson and was unveiled by HM Queen Elizabeth II #onthisday in 1998.

A close-up shot of a round stone memorial plaque set into a paved stone floor. The plaque has an outer ring of gray stone with carved text reading "IS IT NOTHING TO YOU ALL YE THAT PASS BY" oriented in a circle. In the center of the plaque, a lighter gray stone is engraved with the words:

"ALL
INNOCENT
VICTIMS OF
Remember
OPPRESSION
VIOLENCE
WAR"

The word "Remember" is carved in a larger, elegant serif font, contrasting with the block capitals used for the rest of the text.

Three posies of pink, purple, yellow, and red flowers lie behind a round, grey stone plaque embedded in a paved plaza. The plaque features carved lettering in a circular pattern, with visible words reading "IN REMEMBRANCE OF VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE OPPRESSION" and "WAR".

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 10/10/2026

In 1556, a monument was erected at the Abbey celebrating the most famous chronicler of pilgrimages, Geoffrey Chaucer. Now, 470 years on, discover the part the Abbey plays in the life of modern-day pilgrims: www.westminster-abbey.org/about/abbey-review/stories/the-enduring-power-of-pilgrimage

An eye-level shot captures Geoffrey Chaucer's tomb in Westminster Abbey. This grey, stone tomb features a canopy overhead, carved with four pointed arches. The tomb is positioned beneath the left side of this canopy. The stone is carved on the front side of the tomb, with three shield crests, each within a carved panel.

An inscription is carved on a white, stone panel, set into the grey wall behind the tomb. Two small crests, colored red and gold, are depicted on the inscription.

The tomb is positioned against a wall, with part of another structure visible on the left and right.

An eye-level shot captures St Edward the Confessor’s Shrine inside Westminster Abbey. The monument is composed of three tiers on a stone pedestal. The bottom tier features three arched niches, and its front is covered by an altar with a white and red cloth embroidered with “REGNAVIT A LIGNO DEVS.” Atop this is a stone base carved with geometric patterns, topped by a dark green, wooden canopy with a portrait of Saint Edward. The shrine is flanked by candles in silver stands on the left and wooden stands on the right. In the background are the Abbey's stone pillars and vaults.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 09/10/2026

Our memorial stone to the four founders of the Royal Ballet - Ninette de Valois, Frederick Ashton, Constant Lambert and Margot Fonteyn - was dedicated in 2009. The flowing gold lettering was designed to depict movement. You can find the stone in the south transept. #31DaysOfGraves #Lettering

A high-angle, close-up shot of a dark-grey, diamond-shaped stone plaque set into a light brown stone tiled floor. The plaque features gilded, stylized script in the center, encircled by thin white lines and capital letters.

The outer white text reads, "THE ROYAL BALLET" along the top half and "THE FOUNDERS" along the bottom half, separated by two small stars.

The gold inscription inside the circle is arranged vertically in a highly decorative, flowing font:
- "Ninette de Valois"
- "Frederick Ashton"
- "Constant Lambert"
- "Margot Fonteyn"

The first names are written in a smaller, delicate font above each surname, which are rendered in much larger, sweeping letters with elongated ascenders and descenders.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

A very warm welcome to our newest St Margaret’s Choristers, who were admitted to the Choir last week! Along with celebrating Year 8 being admitted as Choristers after their first year, we also welcomed four new Junior Choristers into Year 7.

A choir of children, teenagers, and adults performs in a church, standing in two rows within ornately carved dark wooden pews. The singers wear white surplices over red cassocks. Several members clap their hands while facing inward toward the center, while others look on with warm smiles.

Small brass lamps with glowing white lights and small red shades are mounted along the front pew railing, casting a warm light. In the background, dark wooden gothic-style paneling frames patterned green and white fabric screens.

An eye-level shot captures a priest and three young choir members in red cassocks and white surplices holding orders of service during a service in a dimly lit church. The priest, seen from the shoulders up, stands with his back to the viewer, wearing white robes and looking down at a book. Two lit candles in brass candlesticks with red shades frame the left and center of the shot. The background is softly blurred.

An eye-level shot captures a group of people smiling in a church, gathered in front of an ornate golden altar. There are ten people in the group, including two adults, one on each end of the line, and eight children, some in the foreground and some in the background, between them.

The adult on the left is a man in a red cassock with a white surplice and glasses. The adult on the right is a woman in a golden vestment over a white robe.

Four of the girls are in the background, wearing white surplices over red cassocks, while four girls in the foreground are in plain red cassocks. They stand on a tiled floor of yellow, black, and brown patterns.

Behind them, the golden altar features intricate carvings, including figures of saints and a central relief of a meal. Tall white candles in gold stands flank the altar. The church interior is dark wood with gothic detailing.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

Simon Langham was the only abbot of Westminster to become a cardinal. His alabaster tomb lies in the Chapel of St Benedict, where two dogs rest at his feet. Dogs were often used on clergy tombs in the middle ages to represent the faith of the deceased. #30DaysofGraves #Animal

An eye-level medium close-up shot of the alabaster tomb of Simon Langham shows his feet resting on a pair of small dogs wearing belled collars. The tomb is in Westminster Abbey in London. At the far upper left, Langham's head lies on a pillow, facing upwards.
The dog on the left has floppy ears, and its front paws are extended. Its neck is adorned with a thick collar of round bells, and its head is turned slightly to the right, facing upwards. The dog on the right faces right, with its front legs extended. It also wears a collar of round bells. Behind the dogs, a black iron gate runs diagonally from the upper left to the lower right. The scene is illuminated by light from the upper right, casting shadows on the left side of the dogs and the tomb.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

Don't miss Choral Evensong live from the Abbey on BBC Radio 3 at 3pm (BST) today. The service will be sung by @WAbbeyChoir and will mark the programme's 100th anniversary. You can listen live or on demand via BBC Sounds at: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m003215k

A choir director in a red cassock and white surplice stands at a music stand, raising his hand as he conducts a row of young boys singing from a choir stall. The boys, wearing matching red and white robes, sing with open mouths from music sheets placed on a wooden ledge lined with small brass lamps with red shades. In the background, members of the congregation are softly blurred.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

'Words and music combine to create an experience that has been described as balm for the soul' Ahead of its centenary service from the Abbey today, John Rutter reflects on the enduring appeal of Radio 3 Choral Evensong: www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/what-to-listen-to/sir-john-rutter-choral-evensong/

An elevated, wide-angle shot captures a service in progress inside Westminster Abbey.
Two rows of choir stalls face each other across a wide black-and-white checkered tiled floor that stretches toward the High Altar in the background. High stone arches and columns rise above the congregation, with natural light streaming in from the left and a stained-glass window visible on the right.
The stalls on both sides are filled with a mix of choir members in traditional white surplices and red cassocks, and congregation members in casual, modern attire. Lit lamps with small red shades are mounted on the wooden ledges in front of the seating. A priest in a white robe stands in the middle of the aisle facing the choir on the right.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

Entry to the exhibition will be free with Abbey admission. A series of public events running throughout the summer will offer further opportunities for discussion and reflection on this significant turning point in English history. Find out more: www.westminster-abbey.org/abbey-news/e...

An elevated, wide-angle shot of London, England, looking east-southeast towards Westminster Abbey in the foreground and the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben in the background. The Gothic architecture of Westminster Abbey is on the right, with its two large towers, the Great West Door, and its large stained-glass window. Two flags fly from the top of the towers. Green trees and a road with people walking on it are in the lower center. On the left is the Palace of Westminster with its long facade and Big Ben, the iconic clock tower, on its far left. A blue sky with white, puffy clouds is above.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

The work is a large-scale piece which combines colours and motifs from the Bayeux Tapestry with heraldic devices and symbols of power and victory to create a contemporary response to the events of ten centuries ago.

An eye-level, close-up shot shows wooden tapestry bobbins wound with various threads lying on a loom. The bobbins are scattered across a complex, textured fabric that is actively being woven, featuring loose threads of orange, blue, white, and gold. The background shows the fine, tight warp threads of the loom.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

The exhibition will be held in partnership with the Normandy Regional Council, who commissioned Delprat's tapestry as part of MILLENNIUM 20207 - European Year of the Normans.

An over-the-shoulder, close-up shot shows a weaver's hands working on a loom. The right hand rests flat against a dense layer of taut, white warp threads, holding down a wooden shuttle wrapped with dark teal yarn. The left hand, blurred in the foreground, guides another part of the weaving process. To the bottom-left, several small wooden bobbins wrapped with white, black, and beige threads lie on the loom frame beneath the warp threads.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

Designed by contemporary artist Hélène Delprat and handmade in the famous French weaving town of Aubusson, the new work depicts William's coronation here in the Abbey following his victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

Crowning the Conqueror: Next summer we'll be holding a special exhibition showing a new tapestry inspired by the possible missing final scene of the Bayeux Tapestry. It will be shown in the medieval Chapter House from 1 May – 30 July 2027.

An interior wide shot from a low angle of Westminster Abbey's Chapter House in London, England. At the center of the octagonal room is a tall, slender, dark brown central pillar of Purbeck marble, which rises from the floor to support the vaulted ceiling. The fan vaults are made of light tan-colored stone, spreading out from the pillar to cover the ceiling like a canopy. Large, pointed Gothic stained-glass windows line the walls on all sides, letting in bright light. The windows are filled with intricate colorful designs depicting coats of arms and religious scenes. A stone bench, with blind arcade carvings, runs along the base of the walls.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

This is our memorial to the famous Admiral Sir Cloudesley Shovell, whose ship Association floundered off the Scilly Isles in stormy weather in 1707. Shovell is depicted in Roman armour and wearing a large wig. At the base of the monument is a relief of the shipwreck. #31DaysOfGraves #Weather

A close-up photograph of a relief of a shipwreck, from the white marble memorial to Sir Cloudesley Shovell in Westminster Abbey

A large white marble to Sir Clowdisley Shovell in Westminster Abbey. Shovell is depicted reclining on a couch dressed in Roman armour wearing a large wig. At the base of the monument is a relief of the shipwreck in which he died.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Today's #31DaysofGraves theme is #Vehicle so we're looking at our memorial to Thomas Tynne, murdered in 1681 on the orders of Count Karl Johann Konigsmark, a jealous suitor of his wife. The killers waylaid Thynne's coach in London's Haymarket and fired into it - a scene depicted on the memorial.

A large white marble memorial to Thomas Thynne in Westminster Abbey. The figure of Thynee reclines above a relief depicting the ambush of his carriage in which he was murdered.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

Joseph Wilcocks served as Dean of Westminster from 1731 until his death in 1756. He is buried in the Abbey and close to his grave is this memorial with a relief depicting the west towers and Great West Door, which were completed during his time as Dean. #31DaysOfGraves #Entrance

An ornate oval marble relief carving depicting the west front and nave of Westminster Abbey set within an elaborate decorative frame.

An ornate stone wall monument features a central niche framed by a pointed arch. Inside the niche, two sculpted cherubs flank a large, unrolled scroll inscribed with text. A golden coat of arms is mounted above them against a mottled brown background. Below the shelf holding the cherubs, a circular relief carving depicts Westminster Abbey, flanked by decorative scrolls and floral carvings.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 03/10/2026

This is the tomb of Henry III, who lies buried in the Chapel of St Edward the Confessor in Westminster Abbey The Purbeck marble tomb is decorated with slabs of purple and green antique porphyry and is inlaid with gilded Cosmati mosaic and pieces of coloured marble and glass #31DaysOfTombs #Glass

The marble tomb of Henry III sits framed between two large, cylindrical stone columns inside Westminster Abbey. Atop the tomb lies a golden effigy of a reclining figure, facing right with arms folded. The front panel of the tomb is inlaid with a large piece of porphyry, framed by intricate gold mosaic patterns. Below this, a stone base features geometric patterns in gold mosaic alongside dark diamond and circular stone inlays. Directly above the tomb, a dark, heavy wooden beam structure arches between the two main stone columns. In the background, tiers of arched stone niches and Abbey windows rise behind the tomb.

An extreme close-up shows a corner of an ornate Cosmatesque mosaic set into a light brown stone frame.

The frame has a stepped-in design with a smooth, polished finish, showing slight signs of age and wear.

A border of geometric mosaic pattern lines the inside of the frame. This pattern consists of alternating gold, dark blue, and red triangles that form star-like shapes. The gold triangles are gilded, while the blue and red ones are made of glass tesserae.

Below the top border and to the left of the right border is a large spiral shape made of the same mosaic materials. The spiral is composed of alternating gold and red triangles. In the center of the spiral is a round, raised stone element.

To the left of the spiral is a dark red porphyry stone panel, partially visible. The entire mosaic is set into a mortar bed, which is visible in the gaps between the tesserae.

An extreme close-up of a mosaic. Triangles of gold leaf, red, and blue tiles form two adjacent diamond patterns outlined in thick, rough grey mortar. A strip of textured brown stone bounds the mosaic on the right side.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

Every October, we celebrate Edward the Confessor, the king and saint whose shrine lies at the heart of the Abbey.  Join us for the annual pilgrimage to the shrine on Saturday 17 October, and for our services throughout Edwardtide: www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/edwardtide

The tomb of St Edward the Confessor stands in a chapel inside Westminster Abbey. In front of it, an altar is covered in a white cloth and a gold frontal embroidered with coats of arms. Five tall, lit candles in silver and wooden candlesticks frame the altar. A framed icon of a crowned figure, Saint Edward the Confessor, sits on the wooden tier. High stone arches and columns rise in the background.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

Among the most remarkable memorials in the Abbey is the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, which honours the fallen of the two world wars and conflicts since. The grave is surrounded by a border of poppies, a poignant symbol of remembrance. #31DaysOfGraves #Flower

The Grave of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey. The black marble gravestone is surrounded by a border of red poppies and is inscribed with the words:

Beneath this stone rests the body of a British Warrior unknown by name or rank, brought from France to lie among the most illustrious of the land and buried here on Armistice Day, 11 Nov 1920, in the presence of His Majesty King George V, his Ministers of State, the Chiefs of his forces and a vast concourse of the nation

Thus are commemorated the many multitudes who during the Great War of 1914-1918 gave the most that man can give

Life itself

For God, for King and country, for loved ones home and Empire, for the sacred cause of justice and the freedom of the world

They buried him among the kings because he had done good toward God and toward His house

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

For #Michaelmas - the feast of St Michael and All Angels - we wanted to share this censing angel on the wall of the Abbey's south transept. Carved in the 1250s, it was originally richly coloured and gilded and is among the most important examples of English medieval sculpture of its time.

A close-up shot of a stone relief carving of a winged angel on an architectural structure. The angel, positioned on the right side of the frame, has wavy hair, a serene facial expression, and is dressed in draped robes. Their left wing is raised up and to the left, while their right wing is visible behind their shoulder. The angel's forearms are missing. To the left is a curved arch decorated with geometric star-like floral motifs.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

We're celebrating the Feast of St Michael and All Angels at our services today. Everyone is welcome to join us for Sung Eucharist at 5:00pm (BST), whether in the Abbey or via our livestream: www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-and-music/watch-services #Michaelmas

An illuminated manuscript initial containing a depiction of the Archangel Michael slaying a dragon.

Framed within a circular, pink-and-white patterned initial letter on a textured gold background, Michael is shown as a winged, haloed figure with curly blonde hair. He wears body armor made of blue feathers, matching his large, outspread wings. He stands over the dragon, raising a silver sword in his right hand while holding a white shield with a red cross in his left hand, pressing it into the open, fanged mouth of the beast.

The dragon lies at his feet, depicted with an orange, scaly body, small wings, and a long tail. Black Gothic script is visible at the bottom of the page.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

One of the most important books in our collection is the Litlyngton Missal, a 14th-century service book made for the Abbey's High Altar. The Latin manuscript contains the readings and prayers used at the celebration of the Mass, and a calendar of festivals and saints’ days. #ManuscriptMonday

A large, ancient bound book open at a double page with an intricate illustration of the crucifixion on the left-hand side, and a page of text with an illuminated boarder on the right

An image of a page of handwritten manuscript with an illuminated boarder

An illuminated initial letter from a medieval manuscript

An intricate, full-page illustration of the crucifixion

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 27/09/2026

'You are very welcome to our house' - Merchant of Venice (V, 1) #ShakespeareSunday

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 26/09/2026

Ahead of #WorldTourismDay tomorrow, take a glimpse inside Westminster Abbey where a thousand years of history are waiting to be discovered... You can find out more and plan your visit at: www.westminster-abbey.org/visit-us #WorldTourismDay2026

An eye-level shot captures the interior of Westminster Abbey. In the foreground, two rows of choir stalls flank a central aisle. The stalls feature ornate, dark wood structures with intricate, golden carvings resembling gothic arches. Blue paneling is visible behind the gold carvings. The seats of the stalls are upholstered in a vibrant red fabric. Each stall is equipped with small, red lamps on stands, which are lit and glow with a warm light. The floor between the stalls and extending into the nave is tiled in a black and white checkerboard pattern. Several people are scattered throughout the space, some walking along the aisle and others gathered further down. The nave features towering stone pillars that rise to support high, pointed gothic arches. These arches form a vaulted ceiling with complex ribbing. In the distance, at the far end of the nave, is the high altar, which is adorned with an ornate, golden reredos. Above the altar, stained glass windows are visible, casting light.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Everyone is welcome at the Abbey for our annual pilgrimage to the Shrine of St Edward the Confessor on Saturday 17 October Celebrate the life of Edward, king and saint, with us:www.westminster-abbey.org/abbey-events/edwardtide/2026/october/national-pilgrimage-to-the-shrine-of-edward-the-confessor

An close-up image of a stained glass window depicting St Edward the Confessor. The King has light skin, gray hair, a full short gray beard, and a mustache. He wears an ornate gold crown and holds a gold scepter in his right hand. He is holding up a gold ring in his left hand. He is wearing a blue tunic, gold stole, and white mantle. He is surrounded by decorative stained glass elements, including a gold key motif on a dark red background to his right.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

These 13th-century wall paintings of Christ with St Thomas and St Christopher were hidden for centuries behind two large monuments and rediscovered during cleaning in the 1930s. You can see them in the south transept when you visit us. #WallsOnWednesday

An eye-level shot captures two medieval wall paintings under pointed arches in Westminster Abbey, flanked on the left by white marble statues.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

A sunny early autumn morning at the Abbey ☀️🍂

A low-angle, vertical shot captures the ornate Gothic West Front of Westminster Abbey against a clear blue sky. Two matching, highly detailed square stone towers with pointed spires frame the central facade. The left tower features a blue and gold clock face, and the right tower features a stone rose window. Ornate carvings, pointed arches, and leaded windows adorn the cream-colored stone facade. Leaves of a tree are visible on the left edge.

A low-angle full shot shows the stone facade of Westminster Abbey beneath a clear blue sky. A leafy tree branch frames the upper left corner of the image. The Gothic structure features three large arched entryways at the base, with the central portal being the largest. Above the main entrance, a row of pointed-arch windows sits below a massive, intricate rose window, which is flanked by towering stone buttresses and spires. The facade is richly decorated with detailed stone carvings, statues in niches, and geometric patterns.

A low-angle, vertical shot captures Westminster Abbey on a bright day. The Gothic abbey, made of pale gray stone, is seen in the background behind smaller buildings. In the foreground, a grassy field is partially covered with brown autumn leaves, and green trees frame the top and sides of the image. The sky is clear and blue.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

This window in the Abbey's Lady Chapel features symbols of peace including a dove, poppies and a lily. The window, a gift from LJ and Mary Skaggs, was dedicated in 1995. #InternationalDayOfPeace

A colourful panel of stained glass.

On the left, a white dove carrying an olive branch flies downward from blue skies over a scorched orange landscape with ruined buildings consumed by bright red and orange flames.

On the right, a white lily blooms in a blue sky above a horizontal banner reading "PEACE." Below this, a lily with stylized leaves grows above a yellow banner inscribed with "I.J. & MARY SKAGGS." Red poppies bloom over a small, dying orange flame at the bottom.

An extreme close-up of a stained glass window depicting a white dove with wings spread, flying towards the right. Its body is rendered in shades of white, pale blue, and light yellow, with delicate black painted details defining its feathers. The dove holds a white branch with pointed leaves in its beak. The background consists of geometric panes of glass in shades of dark blue, white, and black, joined by thick black lead cames.

A close-up shot of a stained-glass window panel featuring the word "PEACE" written in capital letters on a silver-gray textured banner. Above the word, a stylized white lily is visible against a background of blue, teal, and dark stained-glass panes. Below the banner are green leaves rendered in shades of light and dark green stained glass.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 20/09/2026

‘But thy eternal summer shall not fade’ - Sonnet 18 Earlier today we honoured ‘The Few’ - the the airmen of the Battle of Britain who fought against extraordinary odds to defend the country from invasion in 1940 – at our annual Battle of Britain Sunday service. #ShakespeareSunday

An officer in a dark blue RAF uniform and peaked cap stands with their back to the camera, saluting before the altar in Westminster Abbey's RAF chapel. Colorful, ornate stained-glass windows depicting religious and heraldic scenes stretch upward in stone arches behind the altar, illuminating the space. On the altar sits a golden cross-topped reliquary, flanked by tall candles on gold stands. To the left, an RAF roundel flag is mounted on a staff.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 19/09/2026

Tomorrow we'll be holding our annual service of thanksgiving and rededication on Battle of Britain Sunday. We'll be streaming the service from 11:00am (BST), and you can watch live on or demand at: www.youtube.com/live/4hLGvK_AiiI?si…

An eye-level shot inside Westminster Abbey during a Battle of Britain memorial service. Uniformed Royal Air Force personnel process down the center aisle, with one carrying a blue standard. They are flanked on both sides by a seated congregation, including veterans in wheelchairs, Chelsea Pensioners in bright red coats, and other attendees. An ornate, gilded archway is visible in the background. Overhead, a dark blue overlay displays the text "Battle of Britain service Sunday 20th September" in a white font.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 19/09/2026

The State Funeral of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was held here at the Abbey four years ago today, on 19 September 2022. ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.’

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Ahead of our annual Battle of Britain service on Sunday, we're looking back at the Abbey’s role in honouring 'The Few' – the pilots and aircrew who defended the country from invasion during the Second World War: www.westminster-abbey.org/history/explore-our-history/battle-of-britain-80th

An eye-level, medium shot depicts three Royal Air Force officers in dark blue uniforms carrying a flag, or standard, through the nave of Westminster Abbey, with members of the congregation in uniforms and civilian clothes lined on either side.

The three officers walk forward abreast, with the officer in the center, who carries the blue and gold standard upright with gloved hands, slightly ahead. They all wear dark blue RAF uniforms with medals on their left chests, white gloves, and dark trousers. The officer on the left wears a peaked cap, while the other two do not.

Behind the officers, a gilded and painted archway opens to a sanctuary with a golden altar and candlesticks. The archway is decorated with gothic tracery, gold leaf, and small figures. On either side of the archway are large, white marble sculptures in niches. The sculpture on the left depicts a large globe surrounded by figures, while the sculpture on the right depicts several figures, including one kneeling.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

This charter from our archive was issued by Henry III in 1246, expressing his wish to be buried next to Edward the Confessor's tomb in the Abbey. Henry’s orders did much to establish the Abbey as the final resting place of kings and queens of England for centuries to come. #ManuscriptMonday

An angled shot of an ancient manuscript on a white display board in a museum. The parchment has dense, reddish-brown cursive handwriting in rows and is creased down the middle. Resting on the bottom half of the document is a small, dark blue, circular woven textile bag with hints of gold and red, next to a reddish, pointed oval seal attached by a strip of parchment.

An elevated, high-angle view inside Westminster Abbey shows the ornate Shrine of St. Edward the Confessor.

In the lower-left foreground, a large, carved stone figure of a king in robes looks down onto the chapel from a high ledge. Below, a tall, multi-tiered dark shrine features arches trimmed in gold and a green gabled roof. A heavy brass incense burner hangs from chains in front of the shrine, illuminated from within. Lit white candles on tall brass stands flank the shrine.

To the left, a row of empty wooden chairs faces the shrine. Further back, several dark wood sarcophagi with effigies rest behind a dark, carved screen wall. Shafts of sunlight filter through the tall, arched gothic architecture, highlighting the stone columns and tiled floor of the sanctuary.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 13/09/2026

'Sing [...] songs of peace' - Henry VIII [V, 5] 🔊 Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Abbey on a quiet summer's morning, accompanied by the plainsong Salve Regina sung by tenor Simon Wall, a Lay Vicar in our choir #ShakespeareSunday #LoudAndQuiet

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 13/09/2026

'Ring [...] out the bells aloud throughout the town' - Henry VI, Part I [I, 6] The Abbey's ten bells were made at the Whitechapel bell foundry, and can be heard ringing out to mark church festivals and royal occasions 🔊 Speakers on to enjoy their beautiful sound #ShakespeareSunday #LoudAndQuiet

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

Historian @rentravailer.bsky.social joined us in the Lady Chapel to talk about the global connections that strongly influenced Tudor and Stuart England. In our Q&A Nandini explored the lives of artists and pirates from around the world and considered what it means to be English.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Early morning sunlight falls across the wall paintings in the Abbey’s 13th-century Chapter House. The Chapter House was where the monks gathered with the abbot to hold chapter: to pray and discuss the day’s business. #WallsOnWednesday

An eye-level shot captures a series of medieval wall paintings set within stone arches and supported by dark pillars. The paintings depict various biblical scenes with multiple figures in robes, halos, and wings, organized in rectangular panels. Above the arches, decorative stone details are visible. At the bottom, a red-orange band features faint figures and animals, including one labelled "Dromedary." Sunlight filters across the textured wall from the left, highlighting details in some panels while leaving others in shadow.

A low-angle, wide shot of the interior the medieval Chapter House at Westminster Abbey, with a high, vaulted ceiling made of light-colored stone ribs that meet at a central, slender column. Large, ornate stained-glass windows line the upper walls, casting colorful light onto the stone floor below. The windows are filled with detailed designs, including coats of arms and religious scenes. The lower walls are decorated with stone archways.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Today we remember Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who died four years ago, on this day in 2022. 'Bring us, O Lord God, at our last awakening into the house and gate of heaven'

A photograph of Queen Elizabeth II, wearing a berry-coloured hat and coat, smiling as she arrives Westminster Abbey for a service.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

If you're planning a visit to the Abbey, please be aware that College Garden will be closed for approximately five weeks from Monday 14 September while we carry out essential conservation works. We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience during these vital works.

A sunny courtyard garden features a lush green lawn bordered by garden benches and manicured shrubs. In the foreground, large, leafy green trees partially frame the view. Behind the garden stands a multi-story brick residential building with peaked roofs and white-framed arched windows. Peeking over the rooftops in the background is the Gothic stone facade of Westminster Abbey, showcasing a large, intricate rose window and gothic archways set against a clear blue sky.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 06/09/2026

'Praise and prayers' - Henry VI, Part I (V, 3) When Henry III rebuilt Westminster Abbey in the mid-13th century, he was inspired by French cathedrals such as Reims, Amiens and Chartres with their soaring Gothic arches, rose windows and flying buttresses. #ShakespeareSunday

An elevated, wide-angle interior view of the interior of Westminster Abbey, looking down across the transepts. High, ribbed vaults meet in a gilded central ridge along the ceiling. On both sides, multi-tiered stone galleries feature pointed arches, intricate trefoil stone carvings, and tall, slender columns. Tall, narrow clerestory windows let in natural light from above. At the far end, a large, colorful rose window sits above a row of smaller stained-glass windows. Hanging chandeliers illuminate the checkerboard-patterned floor below, where seats and a few distant figures are visible.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 05/09/2026

Join us in worship as we stream Evensong from the Abbey at 3pm (BST) today. The service will be sung by our Lay Vicars with music by Mundy, Quinney and Gabrieli. You can watch either live or on demand at: youtube.com/live/0OIOD34LJi8?featur…

An eye-level, wide shot of the choir stalls inside Westminster Abbey, showing choir members seated on both sides of a black-and-white checkered floor aisle under a high vaulted ceiling. On top of the image is a semi-transparent blue banner that reads "Evensong Saturday 5th September."

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

Worship with us as we stream Evensong from the Abbey at 5pm(BST) today. The service will include music by Lassus, Vento and Victoria, and you can watch either live or on demand at: youtube.com/live/81MUV2dkD3U?featur…

An interior view of Westminster Abbey where a choir and congregation are gathered in wooden choir stalls for a service.

In the foreground, two choir members stand with their backs to the camera, wearing white surplices over red cassocks. To the right, rows of people stand within ornate, dark wood choir stalls decorated with small brass lamps casting a warm red glow. Gothic architectural elements, including stone pillars and gold screenwork, rise in the background.

Superimposed in white text on a semi-transparent blue banner at the top of the image are the words: "Evensong Thursday 3rd September".

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

Writer Siegfried Sassoon died #onthisday in 1967. Best remembered for his volume of anti-war poems, Counter Attack, he is honoured in the Abbey alongside fifteen other poets of the First World War with this memorial stone in Poets' Corner.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

This beautiful seal bag, embroidered with the Royal Arms of England, was made in 1280 to protect the wax seal attached to a royal charter from the reign of Edward I. Both the charter and the seal bag survive in our archive collection. #ManuscriptMonday

A small woolen red and green pouch, with three gold embroidered lions, attached to a medieval manuscript

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Henry V died #onthisday in 1422. This is his chantry chapel in the Abbey, built above his tomb and completed in 1450. The chapel is reached by a spiral stone staircase whose steps are worn by the monks who said prayers here daily for the king's soul.

An oil-on-panel portrait of Henry V, by an unknown artist and dating from the 16th or 17th century

Henry V's ornately decorated chantry chapel in Westminster Abbey

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 30/08/2026

'Learning and good letters' - Henry IV, Part II (IV, 1) From writers and musicians to scientists and statesmen, many of the most accomplished figures from centuries of our national life are remembered within the walls of Westminster Abbey. #ShakespeareSunday #Education

An eye-level, medium shot shows Poets' Corner in Westminster Abbey, featuring a central marble monument of William Shakespeare flanked by other writer memorials.

Shakespeare's full-body monument is set within an arched alcove. He is depicted in 16th-century attire, leaning on a pedestal carved with crowned heads, and pointing to a scroll with a quill. Below him, the inscription reads, "WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE 1564-1616 BURIED AT STRATFORD-ON-AVON." Above his alcove, small circular plaques honor Keats and Shelley.

To the left of Shakespeare, vertically stacked, are bust memorials for Robert Southey, Samuel Johnson, and a small plaque for Jane Austen. To the right, a bust of Robert Burns sits above a seated, draped statue of James Thomson. The monuments are mounted on a stone wall beneath the cathedral's ribbed vault ceiling, framed by thick gothic pillars on either side.

A close-up shot of a white marble monument depicting a seated Sir Isaac Newton leaning his right elbow on a stack of four books. He wears a draped classical robe and looks outward. Next to him, two winged cherubs hold a scroll with mathematical diagrams, one pointing at the drawing. Above them, a large gilded celestial globe with constellations is mounted. Below the figures is a marble relief carving depicting small children performing scientific experiments. The monument is set against an ornate background with a blue and gold Gothic arch and column.

A close-up shot of a white marble sculpture depicting George Frideric Handel in period attire, looking upward with one hand raised. In front of him lies an open book of music score featuring the hand-carved notes and words from "Messiah": "Larghetto. I know that my Redeemer liveth and that He shall stand... at the lat... ter Day... upon the Earth." Behind the book, another plaque reads "MESIAH," and a horn sits in the bottom right corner.

A high-angle, medium shot showcases a rectangular stone memorial plaque mounted on a rough stone wall. The plaque is dedicated to the Brontë sisters, with their names and lifespans inscribed in black, serif lettering:

"CHARLOTTE BRONTË 1816 1855"
"EMILY JANE BRONTË 1818 1848"
"ANNE BRONTË 1820 1849"

The plaque is framed by a molded stone border, and supported by a stone bracket below, which bears the inscription "WITH COURAGE TO ENDURE" in capital letters. Part of a stone column or archway is visible in the foreground on the left, and a decorative stone carving can be seen at the top left. The stone wall is made of uneven blocks, and the overall lighting is soft and natural.

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Westminster Abbey @westminsterabbey.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

The white hart (a mature stag) was the emblem chosen by Richard II. Here you can see it depicted in a stained glass window in the Abbey's nave, and on a wall painting in our muniment room.

A stained-glass window depicting the white hart badge of Richard II on the left, and his attributed coat of arms on the right.

The white hart is shown couchant on a patch of green grass against a sky-blue background. It has golden antlers and wears a golden crown as a collar, attached to a golden chain. A circular border around the hart features Gothic script and crowned 'R's.

To the right, a bright blue field patterned with dark blue foliage contains a golden cross patonce surrounded by five golden birds (martlets). Strong black metal leading separates the sections of the window.

An aged, textured wall painting framed by a stone arch depicts a white hart (stag) lying down against a warm, golden-brown background. The stag has large, dark, branching antlers, a long neck, and prominent eyes looking toward the viewer. Around its neck is a golden crown-like collar, from which a metal chain hangs down.

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