Historic Walks in Westminster: Landmarks, Stories & Pub Stops
- alanjohnjeffery
- Dec 5, 2025
- 3 min read
Westminster is the beating heart of London’s history—a district where centuries of politics, royalty, and culture converge. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a living museum, with every corner whispering stories of monarchs, revolutionaries, and visionaries. This guide takes you on a historic walk through Westminster’s most iconic landmarks, shares fascinating tales, and suggests classic pubs where you can pause for a pint steeped in history.
Start at Westminster Abbey: A Royal Legacy
Begin your journey at Westminster Abbey. Founded in 960 AD. This Gothic masterpiece has hosted coronations since William the Conqueror in 1066 and is the final resting place of over 3,000 notable figures. Don’t miss Poets’ Corner, where Chaucer, Dickens, and Tennyson are commemorated.
Story to Know: In 1953, millions watched Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation here—a moment symbolizing continuity and tradition.
Pub Stop: The Red Lion (Parliament Street)
Historic roots: A tavern stood here as early as 1434; the current Victorian building dates to 1890.
Political haunt: Frequented by MPs and journalists for centuries, complete with a division bell to summon MPs to vote.
Notable patrons: Charles Dickens visited as a child; Churchill and Attlee were regulars.
The Palace of Westminster: Power and Politics
Stroll to the Palace of Westminster, home to the UK Parliament. Its iconic clock tower, Big Ben, is one of London’s most photographed landmarks. The palace’s origins date back to the 11th century, though much was rebuilt after a fire in 1834.
Story to Know: The Gunpowder Plot of 1605 unfolded here when Guy Fawkes tried to blow up Parliament.
Pub Stop: St Stephen’s Tavern
Established in 1875: Named after St Stephen’s Chapel, the original House of Commons.
Division bell tradition: One of six pubs with bells to alert MPs to votes.
Famous clientele: Churchill and Macmillan drank here; restored in 2003 after Jubilee Line works.
Whitehall: The Street of Power
Walk along Whitehall, lined with government buildings and memorials. Spot the Cenotaph, honouring war dead, and Horse Guards Parade, where the Changing of the Guard takes place.
Story to Know: Whitehall was once the site of the Palace of Whitehall, the monarch’s main residence until it burned down in 1698.
Pub Stop: The Clarence
Built in 1862: Named for the Duke of Clarence (later King William IV).
Victorian charm: Features timber interiors and Corinthian frontage; refurbished in 2009 and 2023.
St. James’s Park: A Royal Retreat
Detour into St. James’s Park, London’s oldest royal park. Originally a hunting ground for Henry VIII, it became a landscaped garden under Charles II.
Story to Know: In the Restoration era, St. James’s Park was a fashionable meeting place for aristocrats.
Pub Stop: The Two Chairmen
Dating back to 1729: Rebuilt in 1756, making it Westminster’s oldest pub.
Name origin: Sedan-chair carriers waited here after cockfights at the Royal Cockpit.
Cultural ties: Featured in literature and films, including Mary Poppins Returns.
Buckingham Palace: The Monarch’s Residence
End your walk at Buckingham Palace, the monarch’s official residence since 1837. Its history spans royal triumphs and scandals.
Story to Know: In 1982, a man broke into the Queen’s bedroom, prompting major security reforms.
Pub Stop: Bag O’Nails
Origins in 1775: Once called Devil & Bag o’ Nails; rebuilt in 1838.
Swinging Sixties hotspot: Jimi Hendrix played here; Paul McCartney met Linda Eastman in 1967.
Tips for Your Historic Walk
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Duration: 3–4 hours with pub stops.
Free Highlights: Walking the route costs nothing; entry to Westminster Abbey and Banqueting House requires tickets.
Photo Spots: Big Ben at sunset, Horse Guards Parade, Buckingham Palace gates.
Why Westminster Matters
Westminster isn’t just a tourist hotspot—it’s the epicentre of British history and governance. Every building tells a story of resilience, power, and cultural evolution. Adding pub stops makes this walk even more authentic—because what’s more British than history and a pint?
Ready to explore? Lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and let Westminster’s landmarks and pubs guide you through centuries of fascinating stories.
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