• At the end of Barton Street turn left into Great College Street and at the corner turn right through the archway…

You’re now in Deans Yard and it's worth walking around to view the eclectic mix of buildings, including some parts of Westminster School, one of Britain’s leading public (fee-paying) schools. There are some fine Georgian houses with original ironworks here. If you wish to tour the Abbey use the link opposite to plan your visit …

The original abbey was built in the early Norman style by Saxon king Edward the Confessor between 1045 and 1050. It was constructed on the site of a ruined monastery from King Edgar’s time (944–975). The building was added to and modified at various times between 1245 and 1269 and again from 1375 to 1506 so that it is now a mix of Norman, Gothic and pre-Tudor and Renaissance styles. The western towers were added in 1734-1740. 

Westminster Abbey has been the location for the coronation of every English monarch since William the Conqueror – on Christmas Day, 1066 – except for Edward V and Edward VIII. It is also the wedding and burial place for many English and British kings and queens. Many national figures have been buried there including monarchs, politicians, generals, doctors and scientists. Poet’s Corner contains memorials to famous British literary and stage figures. For information about visiting the Abbey please click here…

The tomb of The Unknown Warrior holds an unidentified British soldier killed in Europe during the First World War. He was buried in the abbey on 11 November 1920, at the same time as an unknown French soldier was buried at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. 

• You will see an exit in the north-west corner - go through to find yourself on Victoria Street with the Abbey to your right…