Beyond Victory: Westminster Walking Tour
Take a reflective walk with guide Katie Wignall as she examines what the memorials in the Westminster area tell us about the impact and legacy of the Second World War.
During the Second World War, the buildings around Westminster Abbey were places of action and destruction. At the height of the Blitz, bombs fell around the priests, politicians and decision makers, damaging numerous historic buildings, including the Abbey itself.
Since the end of the war 80 years ago, Westminster has become a site of national commemoration. The array of monuments in the vicinity of Westminster Abbey portrays a complex picture of a conflict that impacted not just those in Britain, but people across the British Empire.
Over the course of an hour and a half, Blue Badge Guide Katie Wignall of Look Up London will situate Westminster Abbey within this commemorative landscape and consider what it can tell us about both the impact and legacy of the Second World War.
At the end of the tour, participants will have the opportunity to take a self-guided visit of Westminster Abbey.
Available dates
Saturday 10th May
Saturday 17th May
Friday 30th May
Thursday 5th June
Wednesday 18th June
Friday 27th June
About Katie Wignall
Katie Wignall is a multi award-winning London history blogger and prize-winning Blue Badge Tourist Guide. She has been running London walking tours since 2015. You can find out more about her work via Look up London.
Ticketing information
There is a maximum of 16 people per tour.
The price of this tour includes entry to Westminster Abbey. The tour will end at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior and you will then have the opportunity to make a self-guided visit to the Abbey.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.Timings
The tour will depart at the advertised start time of 11.00am. Late commers will be given directions to the first stop on the tour.
This tour will last approximately 90 minutes.
Meeting location
The tour will meet at the Cloister Entrance to Westminster Abbey in Dean’s Yard.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
This is a walking tour so you will be on your feet for the duration of the tour. We recommend wearing comfortable footwear.
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted on this tour or at the Abbey. See our photography policy for more information.
Beyond Victory season
This event is part of the Beyond Victory season. On VE - or Victory in Europe - Day in May 1945, Westminster Abbey hosted thanksgiving services every hour, welcoming an estimated 25,000 people. Join us this May and June as we unpack life beyond victory, with a season of events about rebuilding society and the legacy of conflict.
