Service of Thanksgiving FAQs

The following have been identified as possible questions and answers you may find useful. If you do not find the answer you need below, please email thanksgiving@ecclesiastical.com.

How long is the service?
The service starts at 3pm and will last for 1 hour.

What time do the doors open?
Westminster Abbey doors will open at 1:45pm. Ticket holders are requested to be seated by 2.30pm. Latecomers will be directed for entry via the Cloisters.

Will the public be allowed?
No, Westminster Abbey will be closed to the public for the day and this is an invitation only service.

Can I look around the Abbey?
Unfortunately, due to security, guests will be asked to take their seats when they arrive and will be promptly asked to vacate after the service.

What do I need to bring with me?
To gain entry to the event, you must bring the following for security checks:
– Your Entrance Ticket
– Photo Identification (driving licence or passport)

If you have guests, please remind them to do the same. The Abbey operates a robust security protocol and won’t allow entry without these. Please do not bring any other belongings with you.

Am I allowed to bring a bag/luggage?
There is no cloakroom at the Abbey so please avoid bringing large bags or luggage. Where possible please keep personal belongings to a minimum. You may be asked to go through a bag search, so please arrive in good time to allow for this.

What is the dress code?
The dress code is smart attire for this special occasion.

What is included in the order of service?
There will be a variety of performances, prayers and inspirational readings. You will be provided with a copy on your seat when you attend.

Where can I park?
There is no parking available at the Abbey.

Will I be able to use the café?
No, the café will be closed for the day.

I have access requirements, what should I do?
The Abbey has disabled ramp access via the Great West Door and there is also flat access via the Great North Door. There is a disabled toilet facility in the Cloisters. Any access requirements should have been completed when you submitted your RSVP. If you have particular special needs that require further assistance, please email special.events@westminster-abbey.org.

Are dogs welcome?
Guide dogs, hearing dogs and assistance dogs are welcome. The Abbey doesn’t allow other animals.

Are there toilets?
Toilets including accessible toilets are available in the Cloisters.

Camera and mobile phone usage
Unofficial photography and the use of mobile phones or sound recording equipment is not permitted within the Abbey.

Will the seating at Westminster Abbey be allocated?
No, there will be colour-coded areas so if you want to sit with someone, we suggest you meet up beforehand and walk in together.

What will happen to the ticket/s for my guest/s?
If you have requested a guest or guests, their tickets will be sent to you at the address you gave when you registered. Please make sure they receive their ticket and remind them to bring it along on the day, together with their photo ID (driving licence of passport).

I have lost or forgotten my Entrance Ticket. What should I do?
If you have lost/forgotten your Entrance Ticket, please inform us as soon as possible by emailing thanksgiving@ecclesiastical.com.

I am no longer able to attend the service, what should I do?
If you are no longer able to attend, please let us know by emailing thanksgiving@ecclesiastical.com. We will be able to offer your ticket to another person on the waiting list.

COVID-19
In order to keep our guests as safe as possible and limit the spread of COVID-19, please do not attend the service if you are feeling unwell. Westminster Abbey is a well-ventilated venue. Masks and face coverings are optional.