Shadows Beneath the Abbey

A Journey Through Westminster's Medieval Past

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment" – Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Today Newsletter Presented By

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Chapter House of the Collegiate Church of St. Peter Westminster Abbey. Interior with stained glass windows - Shutterstock

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In today’s email: 

• Shadows Beneath the Abbey

• A Walk between Two Worlds

• Around The Web: Timeless Treasure of East London; Visit the Conservatory; Visitors guide to Royal Palaces, Castles and Residences in the UK and more.

• From Social Media - Inside Westminster Abbey

• Yum Recipes - Britain's Capital of Cake

• Extra - History of Westminster Abbey

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Shadows Beneath the Abbey

Explore the rich history of Westminster Abbey with a visit to its Chapter House and Pyx Chamber, both steeped in medieval heritage. The Chapter House, built by royal masons in 1250, was originally a meeting place for Benedictine monks and later became a focal point for the King's Great Council and the Commons, precursors to today's Parliament. Its octagonal shape, vaulted ceiling, and stunning medieval sculptures make it a must-see. Nearby, the 11th-century Pyx Chamber, with its ancient tiled floor and 13th-century altar, served as both a monastic and royal treasury. While at Westminster Abbey, be sure to catch the Beyond Victory exhibition, which marks 80 years of Christian Aid and the impact of post-war rebuilding. Afterward, visit Jewel Tower, a 14th-century remnant of the Palace of Westminster, before heading to Apsley House and Wellington Arch for more historical insights and stunning views

Westminster Abbey interior of the Choir stalls. A gothic church that serves as the location for royal coronations and burial site for historic figures - Shutterstock

A Walk between Two Worlds

Stand beneath the mighty dome of St Paul’s Cathedral and you’ll feel history pressing in from every corner. Step outside, walk a few metres, and cross the Thames on a sleek steel bridge—suddenly, you’re facing a modern art powerhouse inside a repurposed power station. This is Millennium Bridge: not just a footpath, but a symbolic crossing between old and new London.

This walk is short in distance but rich in contrasts—stone and steel, domes and chimneys, chapels and turbines. It’s a journey through time, linking Sir Christopher Wren’s baroque masterpiece to the bold, industrial Tate Modern. And in between, the skyline opens wide

Millennium Bridge and St. Paul's Cathedral in London - Shutterstock

Around The Web

Timeless Treasure of East London

Pellicci’s has served the East End since 1900, a family-run café with roots in love, resilience, and tradition. Now Grade II listed, its iconic woodwork and warm welcome continue under the care of the Pellicci family

Visit the Conservatory

Join us this spring for Concrete Garden, a season of events around growth, reflection and renewal. As part of this season, our tropical oasis in the middle of the city will come alive with a programme of readings, talks and workshops

Dua Lipa: Radical Optimism Tour

Experience pop perfection as Dua Lipa brings her Radical Optimism Tour to London’s iconic Wembley Stadium on 20 & 21 June 2025. Enjoy chart-topping hits and dazzling stagecraft, with support from RAYE and Charli XCX. A must-see for music lovers visiting the city this June

A Sip of Tradition at DUKES Bar

Tucked away in St. James’s, DUKES Bar is famed for crafting one of the world’s best martinis with timeless elegance and precision. Though the hotel is closed for refurbishment until autumn, the bar remains open - inviting you to savour a classic in an iconic London setting

A Unique Green open Space by the Thames

Potters Fields Park is a unique green open space by the Thames next to Tower Bridge. With its spacious lawns, whispering trees, quiet walkways and colourful wildlife-friendly gardens, it offers an oasis in the middle of London

Visitors guide to Royal Palaces, Castles and Residences in the UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most iconic royal palaces, castles and residences in the world. From the towering turrets of Windsor Castle to the elegant interiors of Buckingham Palace, these historic buildings offer a glimpse into the lives of Britain’s royal family.

Buckingham Palace - Love to Visit London

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From Social Media

Inside Westminster Abbey, the organ loft is a vibrant room just before the Choir and High Altar

Yum

Britain's Capital of Cake

Extra 

History of Westminster Abbey

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