I have seen many posts about getting to Westminster Abbey when it opens, to beat the crowds. But as I was reading the RS Guide for the thousandth time, I noticed that he mentions it is quieter in the afternoons. (except Mondays, which he says is busy all day)
Does anyone feel that this holds true in general? We will be in London the first week of October, and I am working out a tentative daily schedule.
1.) Continue check their Website to be certain the Abbey will be open to the public during your dates.
https://www.westminster-abbey.org/
2.) Consider attending Evensong
3.) Schedule the Vergers Tour
4.) In October it will start getting dark around 5pm.
Personally I’d go around 3pm…. But thats just me.
If you did decide to go to Evensong, go later in the day as Claudia mentioned. When you’ve finished walking around, about the time the Abbey has closed, tell the docent you plan to attend Evensong and you’ll be able to stay inside (but not walk around) and not have to go outside and wait in the Evensong line. You be one of the first in line and get goods seats for the service.
We visited the Cathedral in mid May for a 10 am visit- it was very busy. St Margaret’s is also available with the Abbey ticket. It’s across the courtyard, much smaller and very interesting.
WA sells out for a certain number of the early slots each day, generally tapering off as each day progresses. In general terms, it is quieter later most days.
Regarding the mention of darkness in London, that comment is a touch bleak - sunset on the first is 1838, and on the seventh 1825. So not too bad for the first week of October when you are coming. It will only drop to under 1700 when the clocks change at the end of the month. And even then there is still light for a while.
