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Sunrise

Westminster Sunrise: Golden Light at the Abbey

Beat the crowds and catch the first light on Westminster Abbey.

Best time: 15 January 2027About 75 min

Timeline

  1. 14:38

    St Stephen's Tavern Pub

    Start with a warm drink at St Stephen's Tavern Pub. It is open early, giving you time to settle in before the walk.

  2. 15:08

    Westminster Abbey

    Walk to Westminster Abbey. The entrance opens at 9:30 AM, but you can view the exterior from the grounds. For the golden light moment, head to College Green.

  3. 15:23

    College Green

    Stand in College Green. The sun sets toward the SW, casting golden light across the Abbey’s west front. This is the peak moment for photography.

  4. 15:53

    The Cinnamon Club

    End with breakfast at The Cinnamon Club. It is a short walk from the Abbey and serves Indian cuisine in a converted library.

Local tip

Check the Abbey's opening hours for Sunday services, as access may be limited on religious holidays. The Cinnamon Club is a good spot for a post-sunrise meal.

Check before you go

  • Westminster Abbey admission: Mon-Fri 9:30AM-3:30PM, Sat 9:30AM-3PM, Sun open for worship only.
  • St Stephen's Tavern Pub: Mo-Th 10:00-23:30; Fr 10:00-24:00; Sa 10:00-23:30; Su 10:00-22:30.

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to London (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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