Westminster
During England’s medieval period Westminster was a village that neighboured the larger town of London, as London town grew Westminster was engulfed and became part of London as a whole, as did many other neighbouring villages creating Greater London.
A city within a city.
The city of Westminster is a very special place, evidence of history on every corner with some of Great Britain’s most well known and important historical buildings within its boundaries.
The UK’s central government buildings are at the heart of Westminster, the Houses of Parliament have stood proudly here since 1801 by the River Thames, people from all over the world come to hear the bell named “Big Ben” and to see the famous clock tower.
Buckingham Palace is of course yet another building that stands at the heart of Westminster and it’s the official London residence of the British royal family, this amazing building was built in 1705 and it’s architecture does not fail to stun all who visits.
The changing of the guards on Horse Guards Parade is also an integral part of Westminster’s history, from October to March the guards change every hour on the hour, from April to September it’s every half an hour.
Trafalgar Square is also located in Westminster, this open space is iconic and a must see for all London visitors. With its beautiful fountains the impressive four lions that stand proud and guard Nelsons column which is the centre piece of the square, The square was officially opened and named in 1830, However it was just a simple open square at that time where Victorians came to walk and take in the air, in 1838 a plan was presented by Sir Charles Barry to create what we see today, the square took over 30 years to finish with the lions being put in place in 1868.
The Abbey of Westminster is the most officially used of all the abbeys in The UK, This medieval building was officially opened in 1269. There are over 3000 people buried under the abbey including 30 kings and queens of England as well as other noted and celebrated people such as Charles Darwin, There are many graves on the floor of the abbey but the unknown soldiers grave is the only one you are not allowed to walk on.
Living In Westminster
With incredible transport links across the whole of the capital, Westminster is one of the most accessible and desirable postcodes in London.
There are many large green areas and parks including Hyde Park, Green Park, Regents Park and St James Park.
Travel Links
There are some of the busiest and well know train stations located here some of these are not only functional and practical but stunning architectural buildings, such as Victoria Station, Paddington Station as well as Marylebone and Charring Cross, there are also 27 underground stations located within the city of Westminster.
There is so much more to Westminster than we can write here with some of the most amazing Colleges and Universities, Embassies, High Commissions, Hotels, Libraries, Museums, Art Galleries, Bridges, Political buildings, Restaurants….. the diversity is amazing. Everything is on your doorstep. You could live your whole life within the city of Westminster and still not see all that is on offer. And there is always time to shop in some of the world’s best stores to boutiques and high streets shops.
Police: Metropolitan
Dialling code: 020
Postcode district: SW1