Westminster Abbey is an iconic World Heritage Site with an incredible story that spans over a thousand years. As a coronation church since 1066, the Abbey is enriched by a magnificent history which makes it stand proudly as one of the most important Gothic buildings in the country. This infamous royal church retains a tradition of Christian worship and is a working, inclusive church that offers daily services to all.

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries are a major development and the most significant development of the building since the addition of its western towers in 1745. The installation of a new lift and staircase tower in Poet’s Corner provides accessibility to the Triforium enabling accessibility to a significant number of visitors which has hitherto been impossible. The Triforium offers new views of the Abbey and Palace of Westminster as well as close-up architectural details. 

Architecturally designed by Ptolemy Dean Architects, with exhibition design by MUMA, the new displays integrate beautifully with the rich architecture of the space. The four key themes defining the Queen’s Jubilee Galleries are Westminster Abbey: the Buildings, Westminster Abbey: Worship and Daily Life, Westminster Abbey and the Monarchy and The Nation’s Memory. The displays are grouped thematically with six digital media presentations located throughout, allowing visitors to delve deeper into Westminster Abbey’s inspiring story and connect with different aspects of this iconic building’s past and present. The engaging digital media was created by software designers New Angle and Armadillo.

One of the audiovisual highlights is Litlyngton Missal which offers an interactive experience with The Litlyngton Missal, an illuminated manuscript, commissioned in 1383 by Nicholas de Litlyngton, Abbott of Westminster. Visitors can turn the pages of this book using a 24” touchscreen, allowing them access to an incredible manuscript which would otherwise be unavailable to handle due to its fragility. 

This fascinating exhibition offers visitors an atmospheric and contemplative space where they can delve into displays of historic and artistic treasures and explore the story of the Abbey and its present-day role within the Church and nation.

The new galleries are due to open to the public on 11th June.

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