Becoming a member of Westminster Abbey?

Two years ago, we arrived at Westminster Abbey one morning without a membership (or what I presumed what some others had was a reserved arrival time), and we were sent to the end of the line of everybody else without a prebooked arrival, waiting to get into the main entrance. It was outside, and we stood in a light rain for much of the 45 minutes it took to reach the main door.

A couple dozen people arrived during that time, with a piece of paper (reservation printout? proof of membership?), and were immediately let in a separate door, visible to those of us standing in the line. If maximizing your time and maybe avoiding inclement weather is important, spending a bit more might be valuable. Your membership won’t avoid the crowds inside, so do be prepared for that, or go at a less-busy time, if there is such a thing.

We also paid a bit extra (£5 I think) for the Diamond Jubilee Gallery, which was worthwhile, but if it’s included in a membership, that’s one more reason to consider getting it.

I can't speak to Westminster specifically, but across the UK, memberships are something to consider. I have done it a couple times for the Dockyards in Portsmouth, and it worked out great. For that, the attraction is you can break up your visit over a couple days to see everything and not worry about tickets, as the different attractions are rather spread out. Many on here have bought English Heritage and National Trust memberships, allowing entry to some 900 properties in total. For all of the above the nominal added cost gets paid back in benefits, depending on your use.

In the case of Westminster, for what looks to be 5 to 10 GBP more, it is probably worth it.

Membership is £65 if you are paying by direct debit, for which you need a UK bank account. The price for debit or credit card is £75.

If you don't have a UK account, you can get one by opening a Wise account. Once you have received opened it (can be done online in a few minutes), you can add a UK account, which will give you the sort code and account number you need for direct debit.

First, thank you to everyone who responded. I appreciate the information and perspectives.

Second, I just assumed when they discussed direct debit it could be from a U.S. bank account. I will research Wise but it sounds like the way to go. I wonder if having that account would make life easier for international transactions while we’re there (ATM currency withdrawal, etc.).

Thank you again!

Unless you have more need for a Wise account in the future, I wouldn't go to the bother of opening an account.

How many times do you plan to visit Westminster Abbey in the next year? Do you qualify for the senior discount?

My advice, if you don't join as a member, is book first entry of the day and arrive about a half hour early. There will be people milling about. When the gate opens, immediately enter and get in line for security. Everyone, even members, must go through security. Try not to carry backpacks or large totes that will hold you up.

Once through security you will be sorted in 2 lines - tickets and no tickets. Upon entry into the Abbey, head directly to the counter to sign up for the Verger Tour if that is your plan and then pick up the included audio guide for the self tour.

With first entry, you'll be able to visit the side chapels before the Abbey becomes crowded.

BTW, you probably won't need much cash. Many places in London and the UK are card only.

On the wider question of memberships, like Paul from Iowa said above, a membership is still something to consider. It's one of the best ways of offering your patronage to arts and culture in the UK, at any museum, gallery or historical site that offers it.

If you're a visitor who can spare the cash, a National Trust membership goes a long way to keeping many historical sites going financially too.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/membership