About Westminster
Millions of visitors explore Westminster every year to visit its most famous sites, including the UNESCO-listed Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, St James’s Park and the Churchill War Rooms.
As the heart of the British government, Westminster is home to the Houses of Parliament, which include the House of Commons and the House of Lords. It’s also the location of 10 Downing Street, where the Prime Minister lives. A few minutes away is Buckingham Palace, where you can see the Changing of the Guard ceremony and the State Rooms, which are open to visitors each summer.
The City of Westminster is a part of London that extends beyond its main area, encompassing neighbourhoods such as Victoria and Paddington. It is also renowned for its cultural attractions, including museums and art galleries, such as Tate Britain.
Getting to Westminster is straightforward, with many transport options available. Plus, it's only about an hour away from four major airports, making any business or leisure trip smooth and worry-free.
The QEII Centre is a leading conference venue in Westminster, opposite Westminster Abbey, accommodating up to 2,500 guests.
This Grade II-listed venue offers 19 flexible spaces near Westminster Abbey, suitable for up to 664 guests.
One of London’s largest event venues, Central Hall offers 23 spaces and views of Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.
Woods Quay is a modern floating event venue on the Thames near Embankment and Westminster with river views.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and royal church since 1066, home to monarch coronations and royal burials.
Thrilling high-speed boat tours on the Thames from Westminster Pier, with commentary and stunning city views.
Explore the underground bunker where Winston Churchill directed Britain’s WW2 efforts with immersive exhibits.
Gallery of British art from 1500 to present day, home to Turner, Hockney, and more.
Upscale Indian fine dining in a historic former library near Westminster, perfect for private events.
Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge’s relaxed restaurant in Corinthia Hotel serving modern British dishes.
Michelin-starred Indian coastal cuisine served in an elegant atmosphere with private dining options.
Modern European cuisine in a historic location, offering warm service and a classic dining experience.
Five-star hotel near Whitehall with luxury rooms, world-class dining, spa, and event spaces.
Stylish hotel near the Thames with modern rooms, dining, fitness centre, and private bowling alley.
Luxury hotel with history, spa and fine dining, located in the iconic Old War Office building.
Things to do in Westminster
Mix in royal and political circles by visiting Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, before enjoying the river on a relaxing cruise or a thrilling speedboat ride. End your visit with a fine-dining experience in one of the many opulent restaurants and hotels.
Event venues
The QEII Centre
Since 1986, the QEII Centre has been a top spot in London for hosting both local and international events. The venue, situated across from Westminster Abbey, boasts outstanding facilities for large conferences, trade shows and corporate gatherings, accommodating up to 2,500 people.
Church House Westminster
Church House is a Grade II-listed event and conference venue located in Dean’s Yard, near Westminster Abbey and the Thames. It offers flexible spaces for any occasion, accommodating up to 664 guests.
Central Hall Westminster
Central Hall Westminster is one of the largest venues in central London for conferences and events. It offers beautiful views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament and is easily accessible by public transport. With 23 rooms and event spaces, it can host small meetings or large gatherings of more than 2,000 attendees.
Woods’ Quay and Silver Fleet
Woods' Silver Fleet offers the perfect setting on the river, featuring three beautiful boats available for hire: the Silver Sturgeon, Silver Barracuda and Silver Darling. The largest can accommodate up to 550 guests and sail from Woods Quay in Westminster to Greenwich. If you prefer to stay on land rather than on a boat, you can also host your event at Woods Quay, which can hold up to 250 guests.
Experiences
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey, a significant site of worship and historic events in British history, is a must-see in Westminster. Home to the Coronation Chair, used since 1066 for the crowning of British monarchs including Queen Victoria, the Abbey also serves as the final resting place for many renowned figures. You can host private events in Westminster Abbey for up 1,000 in the summer in a marquee and for 280 in the winter.
Thames Rib Experience
See London like never before with a thrilling speedboat ride on the river Thames. Thames RIB Experience offers the largest and fastest boats for an unforgettable experience. Departing from Westminster, Embankment and Tower Pier, choose from tours that blend high-speed excitement with fascinating London facts.
Churchill War Rooms
Join a special tour below the streets of London, featuring secret corridors and insights into Winston Churchill. Discover the underground headquarters where key decisions were made during World War II. The War Rooms can be hired for events of up to 350. The nearest stations are St James's Park and Westminster.
Tate Britain
Tate Britain features a stunning collection that showcases 500 years of British art, including works by renowned artists such as David Hockney and Bridget Riley. The museum is also home to the largest collection of artworks by JMW Turner. Tate Britain also offers spaces for hire for events of up to 900. The closest Tube stations are Vauxhall, Westminster and Pimlico.
Restaurants
The Cinnamon Club
Located in the historic former Westminster Library, The Cinnamon Club is a well-known spot for Indian fine dining. Whether you’re looking to host a sit-down meal or a cocktail reception with food, The Cinnamon Club is a fantastic choice for private events.
Kerridge's Bar & Grill at the Corinthia Hotel Westminster
Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge’s first London restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere, friendly service and delicious food made from high-quality ingredients. The space feels like an art gallery, with beautiful artwork on the walls. There's a private room that seats up to 16 guests.
Quilon
Quilon is a Michelin-starred restaurant specialising in exquisite coastal Indian cuisine. The atmosphere is elegant, featuring beautiful artwork throughout. Quilon has a private dining room, complete with its own kitchen and bar, providing a unique dining experience.
Arlington
Previously known as celebrity hotspot, Le Caprice, Arlington offers a modern twist on classic European cuisine for brunch, lunch and dinner. With a fine selection of wines and an elegant atmosphere, it provides a warm and welcoming dining experience.
Hotels
The Royal Horseguards Hotel and One Whitehall Place
Find stunning high ceilings, a beautiful marble staircase and incredible views of the river Thames and the London Eye. The hotel features 282 rooms and 14 event spaces perfect for conferences, parties and private dinners. After your event, unwind at the One Twenty One Two Restaurant or the Equus Bar.
Corinthia
The Corinthia has a history of hosting famous guests in its 279 rooms, from politicians to spies. It captures the lively spirit of the city while offering easy access to cultural attractions. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options and cocktails in a lounge with a beautiful crystal chandelier.
The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton
Perfect for a relaxing getaway or a quick stay, this 464-room hotel is just a minute away from the river Thames. Enjoy cosy rooms, a fitness centre and on-site dining. The Westminster Bar & Grill offers tasty modern dishes and cocktails and even has a private bowling alley.
Raffles London at The OWO
Raffles London at The OWO offers 120 spacious rooms and suites that blend modern luxury with historical details for a unique and elegant experience. The venue is perfect for special events, and it also features a relaxing Guerlain spa, pool and fitness spaces for ultimate downtime.
Travel information
How to get to Westminster
Westminster is easily accessible from other parts of London via Tube, rail, bus, boat and bicycle.
Travel times to and from Westminster
- London Heathrow Airport: 48 minutes on the London Underground. Take the Jubilee line and change at Bond Street for the Elizabeth line, which goes directly to all terminals.
- London Gatwick Airport: 46 minutes using the Tube and overland train. Take the District line to Victoria and then the Southern, Thameslink or Gatwick Express train to Gatwick Airport.
- Leicester Square: 11 minutes taking the Jubilee line and changing to the Piccadilly line at Green Park.
- City of London: You can travel five minutes on the Jubilee line to reach London Bridge directly. Alternatively, it takes 15 minutes to get to Bank using the Jubilee line and changing to the Waterloo and City line.
- Canary Wharf: 12 minutes on the Jubilee line (direct).
- Stratford: 20 minutes on the Jubilee line (direct).
- London City Airport: 33 minutes to City Airport using the District line and changing to the DLR at Canning Town.
- London Luton Airport: 58 minutes using the District or Circle line to Blackfriars and then the Thameslink train to Luton Airport.
By bus
Many London bus routes connect different parts of London with Westminster.
By boat
As Westminster is situated next to the river Thames, various travel options are available by boat. You can catch a boat from Westminster or travel there via Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. Alternatively, use the Thames River Boats to connect to Putney, Canary Wharf and Woolwich, or Kew, Richmond and Hampton Court (in the summer months only).
Find more information about how to get around London as a business traveller in our business travel in London guide.
How we can help
As London’s official convention bureau, we help event professionals, meeting organisers and incentive planners unlock the city and create events to remember.
We can help you by providing:
- Free assistance: as a not-for-profit company, we don't charge for our services. Our experts share their entire wealth of knowledge and contacts with you for free.
- Impartial advice: we are independent and know London inside out. Our experts can help you discover venues, event agencies, unique experiences and activities for your event.
- Expert knowledge: we've supported thousands of delegates and helped them build world-class events. We've supported international congresses, conventions and conference teams to deliver inspiring events at scale.
