I went there a few years ago. I am Australian and have much English and Irish heritage as many of us do. It BLEW ME AWAY! OMG! It is even better in reality!
My wife & I took the tour (luckily for us) on a Wednesday afternoon....just as the organist was doing his practice.....the place shook on the lowest notes....INCREDIBLE
Knowing me, that kind of food for the soul would have given me goosebumps all over and more than likely moved me to tears. It sounds like the kind of powerful experience that I'd remember for the rest of my life. Lucky you. I've been all over that area of London several times, but never been inside of the Abby. Next time!
I was nine when I first walked through those doors It was my first school trip miles from home in another world (this was 1965). I was astounded standing by the tomb of the unknown soldier.The tannoy kicked in and I was convinced it was God. We had learned so much about London that term and I couldn't wait to see the beefeater at the tower. Sadly though they were not in Ceremonial Dress but navy and red everyday uniform. I took a picture of one with an old box brownie camera which was dull as the Thames. BUT,......... Just 5 years ago a retired beefeater was booked to do a talk at our vintage car club. Finally at the age of 62 not only did I get to understand the full ceremonial uniform and all its meaning I was able to try it on. At 5ft 4" it touched my ankles and the weight of it was incredible. A lot of weight is added by the pure gold embroidery! Fantastic after a long wait.🇬🇧
Oh Steve you will love Fred Dibnah in St Pauls cathedral.It takes you into the roof to show you the bones of the building He explains the technics of so much of the construction.
Love your enthusiasm. While people think we are such a small country in comparison to others, what they don't realise is we are packed to the rafters with such history and things to see or explore and as you said if you wanted to fully appreciate Westminster Abbey it would take days...and that's just a small part of what there is to see in the UK, without the beautiful landscapes etc. Taking a tour sounds like a good way of getting a feel of the Abbey.
Susan Ashcroft - I would also mention that throughout Great Britain most villages are built around a Medieval Church. Hugely expensive things to build 900-1,100 years ago.
I was amazed new York gets twice as much. rain as London.........yet people mock us........as long as they are happy.........this is a beautiful country but urbanity is sometimes overwhelming........
No mate, they are not buried in the walls 😉 They are buried within the walls; i.e somewhere in the abbey. Here is a link to those buried in Westminster Abbey: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burials_and_memorials_in_Westminster_Abbey
Westminster Cathedral and Westminster Abbey are two different buildings belonging to two different Christian denominations. Westminster Cathedral is a much younger building, built in an Italianate style and dating from the early 20th century.
I love how genuine your appreciation of the history of our country is. I will continue to stop by your channel as i love listening to you your questions about our heritage. Thankyou.
I've visited many times and each time I've seen something I didn't see before. Its absolutely packed with beautiful art, sculpture and of course, history. It's a must see if you visit London
I was doing some comms cabling there in the mid 90’s and the first morning,the organist went at it. It was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time,but what a mightily impressive structure the whole place is. While working,we had an “escort” who followed us everywhere.we did a good job though,can’t see our wiring anywhere.
Forgot to mention in my other comment, the history around grave of the Unknown Warrior may be worth looking at as a future video. I don't know if you will remember when you saw Queen Elizabeth's funeral but her coffin was carried around the grave, as no one not even The Monarch would go over it. Again it may be worth taking another look at the vastness of the Abbey from the funeral, to piece together this video and the funeral. To the sheer length the pall bearers had to walk carrying Her Majesty's coffin and which part of the Abbey the service took place in to get a perspective of things.
There were television cameras at the funeral mounted on the ceiling vault of the Abbey looking downwards into the chancel and crossing so you got a bird's-eye view of the processions on and out and of the proceedings at various points in between.
English Perpendicular is a Medieval Gothic architectural style of which Lincoln Cathedral and Westminster Abbey are probably the greatest examples. The architecture uses straight, upward reaching lines to draw the eye upwards, as if to the sky/God. It's unique to England and Wales and is in stark contrast to continental architecture. It's utterly awe inspiring when you experience it in person.
The enthusiasts for York Minster and King's College Cambridge, might take issue (Pistols at dawn 😍 🤣😂🤣😂😍) with you, but hey what's a Chapel or Minster between friends😎 They are all stunning, and worth fighting to preserve😀 Love from Yorkshire.
This country is littered with 1000 year old buildings, my own village church is 1000 years old. My friends live in a house of similar age here. Another has roman remains in her garden. Antiquity is all around us in these isles. Even the mantel shelf in my sitting room is 1000 years old. We tend to take all this for granted because we've always had it. Its nice to see a cousin across the pond so amazed at our wonderful heritage.
Westminster Abbey is awe inspiring.. I also love York Mister, Salisbury & Canterbury Cathedral.. there are also soooo many BEAUTIFUL churches, also 1,000+ year sold all over the country that hold their own in a different respect. BUT I will always have a soft spot for St.Paul's Cathedral... the view from the outer balcony, the whispering gallery and the majesty as you see it in various skyline aspects... my absolute fav! I guess I'm a fan of Christopher Wren 💌
@@neuralwarp Ah, yes Durham is gorgeous.. and kept very much in its original state! A great shout - Definitely deserves to be on the list! Still love the majesty of St.Pauls
@@leahengland6704 Yes, that is lovely - I love that the Catholic church built that one and then the COE built the Catholic Church.. a lovely sentiment!
Westminster Abbey is beautiful, but there are others that are more beautiful. In England we have 26 medieval cathedrals which date from between approximately 1040 and 1540 with most of them being built on the site of earlier churches. Our heritage is so, so rich!
@@malopephasha5341 In religious terms Canterbury is more important being the oldest diocese and mother church of the Church of England, but yes Westminster get the nod when it comes to history with its links with royalty.
About 25 years ago they were restoring Henry V11's Chapel. When almost finished they opened up the site to the public. You got to climb up the scaffolding and walk about right over the chapel roof. You could also watch the Stonemasons at work at ground level. I raved about it to my parents so much that they went a few days later. We took lots of photos of the area from a privileged viewpoint. A once in many generations opportunity. About 35 years ago we had an exceptional tour organised through a family friend. Saw lots of behind the scenes areas, had a light supper and listened to the choir & organ. A magical experience, sitting in the choir lit only by candlelight. The oldest door in the UK is in the corridor leading to the Chapter House. Constructed in the 1050's from wood that started growing before 924. Part of Edward the Confessor's Abbey. St. Edward was Patron Saint of England until Edward111 made it St.George. Edward the Confessor remains the Royal Family's Patron Saint. Much travelled, but the abbey is still my favourite building in the world. So soaked in history.
The Cosmati floor before the high altar is interesting because it was made by a very famous workshop of artisans (the Cosmati) which came directly from Rome at the invitation of the king and is their only work not in Rome or its surroundings. They took ancient Roman marbles and cut them (sigh) into small pieces with which they created these magnificent marble carpets or decorated altars, columns, etc.
Hey Steve, most of Scotland england , Ireland and wales have absolutely beautiful Abbeys,churches .My parent's took my three brothers my sister and i to london i thought i was going to see the queen lol we were also taken to Westminster Abbey , i am so glad i watched thos video brings back fantastic memories of my family who are no longer with us xxx thank you Steve xxx ♥️💙♥️
I agree, it seems that the whole of the UK and Ireland have tons of these beautiful buildings. Old abbeys are some of the most beautiful buildings I've ever seen. Lindsay and I both love the old architecture. I'm going to have to show her Westminster Abbey soon.
Loved this video, I’ve visited the Abbey twice and I know I’ve only scratched the surface of what to see. It’s an amazing place. I would suggest if you’re going to react to the story of the Unknown Warrior you do the one HM Royal Marines Band/ Unknown Warrior Story, you won’t be disappointed
The Bayeux Tapestry is still displayed in Bayeux Museum Since the announcement of the eventual loan of the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK, an administrative arrangement has been signed between the French and British Ministries of Culture, opening the way for cultural exchanges between the two countries.
I can see the towers from my balcony but I have never done a proper tour inside. I walk past it regularly on my daily walk but have only been inside twice. Once for a concert and once for the memorial service of Dame Joan Sutherland I was honoured to be invited to. Your video has inspired me to go and do a proper visit!
The account of Dunstan creating a small monastic community on the little "Thorney" island, well outside and to the west of the town of Saxon Lundenburh as it was in those days, is more certain than the lady narrating the video makes out. Then, as she says, king Edward the Confessor turned the site into a major Abbey church - literally the "West Minster" - in the 1040s.
@Steve - knowing the square footage of buildings is common in the US but it just isn't a thing in the UK. We don't buy houses on the square footage for example like in the US and, I believe, the size of the Abbey is just an estimate, last measured in 1970 to be approximately 32,000 sq ft.
Actually, much of what you admired early on at 08:40, the tower with the blue clockface to the left of the picture, was the medieval church of St Margaret's, Westminster, which stands right next to the Abbey, just a few yards to the north of it. This church is the burial place of Sir Walter Raleigh (except his head buried elsewhere - at West Horsley Church in Surrey). He was one of the earliest explorers to visit North America - it was he who gave the US state of Virginia its name and brought back tobacco and potatoes. It is also the church most closely associated with Parliament, across the road.
You have the soul of an art historian . Your ability to be amazed and think about the labour of the human brain and hands is a wonder to witness . I honestly hope you and your family can visit London soon . I’m an art historian myself and I’d love to give you guys a tour of the National Art Gallery .
Being a cockney gal. I've been to west minster Abby 2 times. There is so much to see. It can be over whelming it nearly was for me. I managed to keep it together. You don't really appreciate it untill you see it with your own eyes. It's amazing. And a wonderful piece of archectectral delight. And it still blows my mind that it's a thousand years old. from 🇬🇧👍👍 an old cockney gal
We have the remains of an abbey in Whitby, North Yorkshire which was where the first synod of the Christian faith in the UK was held in 664. This synod determined that Christianity in England would follow the Roman traditions rather than the Celtic; the timing of Easter was also determined at this meeting.. It fell into disrepair during raids by Vikings in the 9th century but the remains are still to be seen on the cliff top in Whitby.
For over fifty years i lived and worked 10 minutes walk from the Abbey in parliament square, l must have been in there well over hundred times and there still much about this incredible Abbey l do not know.
She means buried within the floor of the building, although often people were buried in the walls of their homes years ago, if they couldn't afford to pay for a grave. They would plop them in, and brick up the wall.
Steve, glad you enjoyed the video and hope you have a chance to visit the Abbey when you come to the UK. I think the last Monarch to be buried in Westminster Abbey was Queen Anne. Since then they've been buried at Windsor.
If you fancy a look round St Paul's Cathedral, there is a 360° view tour on here done by BBC London, but if you watch it on your phone, you can scroll round the screen to look around, even to look up at the ceiling and the amazing dome!
I absolutely love the free tours by foot videos, Sinead is my favourite too, they have so many videos in and around London, the Windsor tour is one of my favourites
Sovereigns are no longer buried in Westminster Abbey: there is no more room. For some centuries, they have been laid to rest at Windsor inside St George's Chapel (except for Queen Victoria buried at Frogmore nearby). Queen Elizabeth II is the first sovereign to have had a funeral ceremony in Westminster Abbey since 1760. During that following period, funerals were only held at Windsor, their burial place.
St Paul's cathedral is another fantastic church in London . You must go to the to the top and experience the whispering galley lots of history about St Pauls.
The wedding of Katherine Middleton and Prince William. Listen to the music. The bells rang for three or four hours. The bells are rung to celebrate the birthdays of the very senior royals.
This Abby is breathtaking as you walk around the feeling is beyound words. Been within the Abby walls many times and you can truthy feel history and faith. Visit if you get the chance.
Until you have been to an abbey or cathedral you can’t comprehend the stunning architecture and craftsmanship that went int these buildings, it is awe inspiring.
Please note at 5:24 St Edward in the pic he is holding a gold ring with a sapphire it is the same sapphire in the state crown that was on top of the Queens coffin it is in the middle of the cross. It is the oldest gem in the crown jewels
When I was an art student our class were given permission to paint and draw the statues. They're even more magnificent up close. Every year I go to a thanksgiving service to celebrate the independence of St V & G (a commonwealth country) from the UK. The choir is absolutely amazing. It always makes me feel quite emotional. It's quite an experience.
I love your RUclips videos and on a recent one you were talking about how some of our ancient buildings have been built. There was an excellent programme some years back in the UK called Secrets of the Castle. It is about the on-going building of a castle in France in the old style, using the original tools and ways of working. There are about 5/6 episodes with Ruth Goodman, Peter and Tom living on site for a while and helping with the labouring work. Fascinating if you like archecture and history.
Thirty years ago, as a newcomer to London starting University here, I met various people, as you do, one of which was a layclerk (ie one of the professional choir members at Westminster - not the schoolboys who are obviously not the professional choir although they do obviously augment it). He, in turn, knew Rev John Hall, as he was then who I also got to know - who subsequently became the Very Rev John Hall, Dean of Westminster so was fortunate enough not only to sit right with the choir (technically behind, in the seats or "stalls" as you heard them called at the top/back) - including at least once for the annual outing of Allegri's Miserere at Easter - replete with the solo soprano being stationed elsewhere to give that stunning, ethereal, other worldly quality and which is even more dreamlike and surreal when you open your eyes and you're in an 800 year old building with the sound of something so precious coming from right there; and while the reality of the supposed secrecy surrounding the piece, in fact is somewhat less Byzantine than legend often ascribes to it, remains a stunning, late Renaissance masterpiece transported directly from the Sistine Chapel - in spite of Pope Urban VIII and his successors' best attempts at maintaining its performance uniquely within The Vatican - to Westminster. On top of which, dinner at, and a tour of, the (mostly 17th century) private Dean's House. To be fair, whilst it is undoubtedly spectacular, much of the portentous nature of the building is its connection to Royalty and famous people along with its position absolutely plum in the very centre of London. As a few of your other subscribers have commented, there are actually bigger, older and arguably finer examples of ecclesiastical architecture all over England - I could suggest to you the cathedrals of Canterbury, Wells, Winchester, Durham, Ely, Lincoln, York, Norwich and Salisbury for starters, each and every one of which - while lacking the unique almost continuous Royal "thread" - are absolutely stonking and in every other way, at least the equal (and some, easily better) than Westminster. There are several really great films which cover them - bless her, there was nothing wrong with your choice here, but it was literally, a ground level skip round with a tour guide holding her own camera. There are FAR better possibilities in terms of the stateliness of the panoramas available to really get a feel for the majesty of these architectural wonders, the choice of slightly wonky hand held camerawork was rather frustrating and disappointing. If you are interested either privately or as "American guy Reacts to...." in exploring these further, I would be happy to provide you the links to the very best of the best and no, I have no association with any of the program makers, nor sponsorship nor commission - I just know quality when I see it! Anyway at last, you've scratched something all Americans itch with and now we can all relax a bit😆
Love your vids keep up the good work. You should research some of our other Cathedrals too such as Lincoln, Peterborough, York, Canterbury... the list goes on and on but some are on par with Westminster Abbey.
You should also check out St Pauls Cathedral - one of the most iconic sites of the London skyline and if you get the chance go to Canterbury Cathedral - about an hour and 20mins by train from London and check out Leeds Castle on the way.
Hi there. I have never been to Westminster Abbey but I have been to York Minster and Durham Catherdral both amazing places that you would love. I live in Coventry, well known for our cathedral that was bombed during the 2nd world war and it's modern replacement which is remarkable in it's own way. I remember in my early teens watching from my bedroom window while the cross was place on the pylon on the roof by a helicopter. We have always called that "cross" the dying duck. I hope you manage to get here soon. All the best Jill.
Steve, in answer to your question the Abbey is 530 feet in length (exterior dimension). And thank you for reacting to this footage, all most interesting. I visited the Abbey in 2014 but as you say, you really need several days to take it in. On another day we took in (the present) St. Pauls cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren it replaced the Norman cathedral which was burnt down in the Great Fire of London in 1666. Old St. Pauls (the fourth cathedral on that site on Ludgate Hill and started in 1087) when completed was one of the longest cathedrals in the world at 586 feet. The nave was called St. Pauls walk due to its length. "New" St. Pauls is worth reacting to.
It really is an amazing Abbey, truly worth visiting to take in so much history in such a beautiful setting. It is one place I revisit because of its stunning beauty.
I entered this fantastic place at around 1100 hours and exited at around 1640hrs a few years ago. I did not get see everything I wanted to see, so a few months later I returned.
I've watched several of Siobhan's tours. If you want to learn about different parts of London she's the person to watch. Free Tours by Foot. I'm a Londoner by birth and anscestry and know a good bit about London but even I learnt stuff from her.
For the most part, they arent burried in the walls, she means within the building, but whos to say for sure, although there is speculated to be a mausoleum inside the church, below ground, which is literally , graves in the walls!, I think with london being so big but compact, and for a lack of space for a decent sized graveyard, diggin below the floor and further down was probably the only option, hope that helps!
If you listen to Song for Athena by Taverner, which was sung at Princess Diana's funeral you will hear what the song sounded like when it was sung at her funeral!. Love your videos!
More proof that although we are a small country in square mileage we are also a huge one in historical context. The lady guiding us round did an excellent job although I would point out that Elgar is pronounced as spelt and not ‘Elga’. I also think that the great English conductor Sir Adrian Boult might have been better served by being called that rather than by his inscription ‘Adrian Cedric Boult’ which sounds as though he might have been a worthy background figure somehow related to music. This is mere nitpicking I know!
It's wonderful to see your enthusiasm. I would love to be there when you actually pay a visit to see your reaction which you will hopefully be filming. Please pay a visit to our country soon. You will be most welcome.
You might want to check out Lucy worsely's documentaries, she has quite a few on historical sites and has a 2 part on the abbey. I think she works for some british historical society she gets some behind the scenes fotoage that no average person gets.
Great reaction mate
Love your enthusiasm
Love peace from the U.K 🇬🇧
Within the walls, As in inside the abbey. 👍
A figure of speach
@@1308stewie Exactly.. 😄
I went there a few years ago. I am Australian and have much English and Irish heritage as many of us do.
It BLEW ME AWAY!
OMG! It is even better in reality!
My wife & I took the tour (luckily for us) on a Wednesday afternoon....just as the organist was doing his practice.....the place shook on the lowest notes....INCREDIBLE
I live near Canterbury and when they play the organ there it is awe inspiring
@@hythekent Was going to suggest Canterbury cathedral.
@@hythekent we went to Trinity the next day in Cambridge.....what an amazing trip
Knowing me, that kind of food for the soul would have given me goosebumps all over and more than likely moved me to tears. It sounds like the kind of powerful experience that I'd remember for the rest of my life. Lucky you. I've been all over that area of London several times, but never been inside of the Abby. Next time!
My husband is a professional organist and has played here (although he prefers Westminster Cathedral) - also at St Paul's Cathedral :)
You are the best . Thank you for your genuine response x
I was nine when I first walked through those doors It was my first school trip miles from home in another world (this was 1965). I was astounded standing by the tomb of the unknown soldier.The tannoy kicked in and I was convinced it was God. We had learned so much about London that term and I couldn't wait to see the beefeater at the tower. Sadly though they were not in Ceremonial Dress but navy and red everyday uniform. I took a picture of one with an old box brownie camera which was dull as the Thames. BUT,.........
Just 5 years ago a retired beefeater was booked to do a talk at our vintage car club. Finally at the age of 62 not only did I get to understand the full ceremonial uniform and all its meaning I was able to try it on. At 5ft 4" it touched my ankles and the weight of it was incredible. A lot of weight is added by the pure gold embroidery! Fantastic after a long wait.🇬🇧
Great memories.
Oh Steve you will love Fred Dibnah in St Pauls cathedral.It takes you into the roof to show you the bones of the building He explains the technics of so much of the construction.
Love your enthusiasm.
While people think we are such a small country in comparison to others, what they don't realise is we are packed to the rafters with such history and things to see or explore and as you said if you wanted to fully appreciate Westminster Abbey it would take days...and that's just a small part of what there is to see in the UK, without the beautiful landscapes etc. Taking a tour sounds like a good way of getting a feel of the Abbey.
Absolutely... The Church of which I am Rector has a history that goes back to AD 300 and its history as well as its legends are unique
@@stjohnthebaptistchester ad 300!? Roman?
Susan Ashcroft - I would also mention that throughout Great Britain most villages are built around a Medieval Church. Hugely expensive things to build 900-1,100 years ago.
I was amazed new York gets twice as much. rain as London.........yet people mock us........as long as they are happy.........this is a beautiful country but urbanity is sometimes overwhelming........
@@hythekent possibly?.......
You must hear the sound of hymns, being sung inside of the Abbey. This is what makes the whole building, come alive!!
It's amazing to think that every stone was carved by hand by a man with a hammer and a chisel!
York minster is also a stunning place to visit
Just wait until you see it in person Steve. It's breathtakingly beautiful.
I would also recommend York Minster which is built on the remains of a huge Roman fort which can be viewed under the towers
William Caxton was the inventor of the printing press
No mate, they are not buried in the walls 😉 They are buried within the walls; i.e somewhere in the abbey. Here is a link to those buried in Westminster Abbey: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burials_and_memorials_in_Westminster_Abbey
You mean Westminster Abbey, not Cathedral?
Westminster Cathedral and Westminster Abbey are two different buildings belonging to two different Christian denominations. Westminster Cathedral is a much younger building, built in an Italianate style and dating from the early 20th century.
Westminster hall is also a separate building.
Actually some ARE buried in the walls.
@@martynnotman3467 oh really? Immured or in niches? Any idea who they are?
I love how genuine your appreciation of the history of our country is. I will continue to stop by your channel as i love listening to you your questions about our heritage. Thankyou.
Imagine it in real life,it's stunning! So much history shared for us all to see.
I've visited many times and each time I've seen something I didn't see before. Its absolutely packed with beautiful art, sculpture and of course, history. It's a must see if you visit London
One word...MAGNIFICENT
I was doing some comms cabling there in the mid 90’s and the first morning,the organist went at it.
It was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time,but what a mightily impressive structure the whole place is.
While working,we had an “escort” who followed us everywhere.we did a good job though,can’t see our wiring anywhere.
Forgot to mention in my other comment, the history around grave of the Unknown Warrior may be worth looking at as a future video. I don't know if you will remember when you saw Queen Elizabeth's funeral but her coffin was carried around the grave, as no one not even The Monarch would go over it. Again it may be worth taking another look at the vastness of the Abbey from the funeral, to piece together this video and the funeral. To the sheer length the pall bearers had to walk carrying Her Majesty's coffin and which part of the Abbey the service took place in to get a perspective of things.
There were television cameras at the funeral mounted on the ceiling vault of the Abbey looking downwards into the chancel and crossing so you got a bird's-eye view of the processions on and out and of the proceedings at various points in between.
To no one in particular...........one of the guard pall - bearers apparently has since passed away. very sad for family/friends.
One of the better versions of the history of the unknown warrior
ruclips.net/video/UixYxsPFoqc/видео.html
One of the guards died l believe.....rip,
English Perpendicular is a Medieval Gothic architectural style of which Lincoln Cathedral and Westminster Abbey are probably the greatest examples. The architecture uses straight, upward reaching lines to draw the eye upwards, as if to the sky/God.
It's unique to England and Wales and is in stark contrast to continental architecture. It's utterly awe inspiring when you experience it in person.
Lincoln Cathedral is so beautiful.
Also the chapel of King's College, Cambridge, the chancel and cloisters of Gloucester Cathedral and St George's Chapel, Windsor.
The enthusiasts for York Minster and King's College Cambridge, might take issue (Pistols at dawn 😍 🤣😂🤣😂😍) with you, but hey what's a Chapel or Minster between friends😎
They are all stunning, and worth fighting to preserve😀
Love from Yorkshire.
Imagine if Lincoln Catherdral still had those spires, I wish I could go back in time.😃
the most amazing thing is that so much survived the reformation
Honestly we have loads of churches or abbeys around the UK that are similarly impressive in terms of design and detail.
This country is littered with 1000 year old buildings, my own village church is 1000 years old. My friends live in a house of similar age here. Another has roman remains in her garden. Antiquity is all around us in these isles. Even the mantel shelf in my sitting room is 1000 years old. We tend to take all this for granted because we've always had it. Its nice to see a cousin across the pond so amazed at our wonderful heritage.
Thank you. You have such genuine passion .
Westminster Abbey is awe inspiring.. I also love York Mister, Salisbury & Canterbury Cathedral.. there are also soooo many BEAUTIFUL churches, also 1,000+ year sold all over the country that hold their own in a different respect. BUT I will always have a soft spot for St.Paul's Cathedral... the view from the outer balcony, the whispering gallery and the majesty as you see it in various skyline aspects... my absolute fav! I guess I'm a fan of Christopher Wren 💌
@@neuralwarp Ah, yes Durham is gorgeous.. and kept very much in its original state! A great shout - Definitely deserves to be on the list!
Still love the majesty of St.Pauls
@@AM-dz2sh and Liverpool Anglican Cathedral too ❤
@@leahengland6704 Yes, that is lovely - I love that the Catholic church built that one and then the COE built the Catholic Church.. a lovely sentiment!
Absolutely fills one with wonder and reverence. What history too. Glorious!!
God Bless the creators.🙏🙏🙏
Westminster Abbey is beautiful, but there are others that are more beautiful. In England we have 26 medieval cathedrals which date from between approximately 1040 and 1540 with most of them being built on the site of earlier churches. Our heritage is so, so rich!
Not forgetting many churches/cathedrals/abbey's were built on even earlier pagan sites. Part of Our vast wealth of ancient history. 🏴🇬🇧
Yes, and being attacked daily, rewritten and labelled bad at every opportunity by leftists.
@@leejames1792 So true Lee. We have 'rights' to be who We are too!! 👍🏴🇬🇧
Westminster is by far the most important
@@malopephasha5341 In religious terms Canterbury is more important being the oldest diocese and mother church of the Church of England, but yes Westminster get the nod when it comes to history with its links with royalty.
So glad you enjoyed hearing about our history of Westminster Abbey.
The place where HM The Queen was Laid in State is Westminster Hall.
About 25 years ago they were restoring Henry V11's Chapel. When almost finished they opened up the site to the public. You got to climb up the scaffolding and walk about right over the chapel roof. You could also watch the Stonemasons at work at ground level. I raved about it to my parents so much that they went a few days later. We took lots of photos of the area from a privileged viewpoint. A once in many generations opportunity.
About 35 years ago we had an exceptional tour organised through a family friend. Saw lots of behind the scenes areas, had a light supper and listened to the choir & organ. A magical experience, sitting in the choir lit only by candlelight.
The oldest door in the UK is in the corridor leading to the Chapter House. Constructed in the 1050's from wood that started growing before 924. Part of Edward the Confessor's Abbey. St. Edward was Patron Saint of England until Edward111 made it St.George. Edward the Confessor remains the Royal Family's Patron Saint.
Much travelled, but the abbey is still my favourite building in the world. So soaked in history.
@Reacting_To_My_Roots Apologies but not on Telegram
The Cosmati floor before the high altar is interesting because it was made by a very famous workshop of artisans (the Cosmati) which came directly from Rome at the invitation of the king and is their only work not in Rome or its surroundings.
They took ancient Roman marbles and cut them (sigh) into small pieces with which they created these magnificent marble carpets or decorated altars, columns, etc.
Thanks Steve this was a spectacular look at Westminster Abbey ❤
Hey Steve, most of Scotland england , Ireland and wales have absolutely beautiful Abbeys,churches .My parent's took my three brothers my sister and i to london i thought i was going to see the queen lol we were also taken to Westminster Abbey , i am so glad i watched thos video brings back fantastic memories of my family who are no longer with us xxx thank you Steve xxx ♥️💙♥️
I am now 61 years of age xxx ♥️💙♥️
I agree, it seems that the whole of the UK and Ireland have tons of these beautiful buildings. Old abbeys are some of the most beautiful buildings I've ever seen. Lindsay and I both love the old architecture. I'm going to have to show her Westminster Abbey soon.
Loved this video, I’ve visited the Abbey twice and I know I’ve only scratched the surface of what to see. It’s an amazing place. I would suggest if you’re going to react to the story of the Unknown Warrior you do the one HM Royal Marines Band/ Unknown Warrior Story, you won’t be disappointed
HM Royal Marines band is known to be the best military band in the world
@@hythekent the way they play during the video I’m talking about is outstanding
@@rozhunter7645 my favourite Royal Marines tune is HM Jollies
Although it was briefly mentioned, the Bayeux Tapestry is well worth looking into if you are interested in our history.
The Bayeux Tapestry is still displayed in Bayeux Museum
Since the announcement of the eventual loan of the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK, an administrative arrangement has been signed between the French and British Ministries of Culture, opening the way for cultural exchanges between the two countries.
I can see the towers from my balcony but I have never done a proper tour inside. I walk past it regularly on my daily walk but have only been inside twice. Once for a concert and once for the memorial service of Dame Joan Sutherland I was honoured to be invited to. Your video has inspired me to go and do a proper visit!
The account of Dunstan creating a small monastic community on the little "Thorney" island, well outside and to the west of the town of Saxon Lundenburh as it was in those days, is more certain than the lady narrating the video makes out. Then, as she says, king Edward the Confessor turned the site into a major Abbey church - literally the "West Minster" - in the 1040s.
@Steve - knowing the square footage of buildings is common in the US but it just isn't a thing in the UK. We don't buy houses on the square footage for example like in the US and, I believe, the size of the Abbey is just an estimate, last measured in 1970 to be approximately 32,000 sq ft.
Actually, much of what you admired early on at 08:40, the tower with the blue clockface to the left of the picture, was the medieval church of St Margaret's, Westminster, which stands right next to the Abbey, just a few yards to the north of it. This church is the burial place of Sir Walter Raleigh (except his head buried elsewhere - at West Horsley Church in Surrey). He was one of the earliest explorers to visit North America - it was he who gave the US state of Virginia its name and brought back tobacco and potatoes. It is also the church most closely associated with Parliament, across the road.
Just to add.. Virginia Usa was named after the 'virgin' Queen Elizabeth the first. 🏴🇬🇧🇺🇸
I worked for a company a few years ago who had their 50th anniversary service in St Margaret's using the cathedrals choir. It was incredible
You have the soul of an art historian . Your ability to be amazed and think about the labour of the human brain and hands is a wonder to witness . I honestly hope you and your family can visit London soon . I’m an art historian myself and I’d love to give you guys a tour of the National Art Gallery .
My late husband had a healing prayer there a few years ago.. Its a beautiful place..
We visited the Abbey a couple of weeks ago, first time In many years...we've already decided To go again later this year ...amazing place.
Being a cockney gal. I've been to west minster Abby 2 times. There is so much to see. It can be over whelming it nearly was for me. I managed to keep it together. You don't really appreciate it untill you see it with your own eyes. It's amazing. And a wonderful piece of archectectral delight. And it still blows my mind that it's a thousand years old. from 🇬🇧👍👍 an old cockney gal
We have the remains of an abbey in Whitby, North Yorkshire which was where the first synod of the Christian faith in the UK was held in 664. This synod determined that Christianity in England would follow the Roman traditions rather than the Celtic; the timing of Easter was also determined at this meeting.. It fell into disrepair during raids by Vikings in the 9th century but the remains are still to be seen on the cliff top in Whitby.
@@neuralwarp agreed, my mistske
@@neuralwarp agreed, my mistake.
The oldest door in Great Britain is a simple oak door which is more than 1,000 years old and is in Westminster Abbey.
For over fifty years i lived and worked 10 minutes walk from the Abbey in parliament square, l must have been in there well over hundred times and there still much about this incredible Abbey l do not know.
I remember going there as a kid with school and taking rubbing, and being in or of all of it ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you for sharing this, I am looking afresh at Westminster abbey through your eyes. It's amazing how much I thought I knew but seeing afresh
She means buried within the floor of the building, although often people were buried in the walls of their homes years ago, if they couldn't afford to pay for a grave. They would plop them in, and brick up the wall.
Steve, glad you enjoyed the video and hope you have a chance to visit the Abbey when you come to the UK. I think the last Monarch to be buried in Westminster Abbey was Queen Anne. Since then they've been buried at Windsor.
If you fancy a look round St Paul's Cathedral, there is a 360° view tour on here done by BBC London, but if you watch it on your phone, you can scroll round the screen to look around, even to look up at the ceiling and the amazing dome!
I absolutely love the free tours by foot videos, Sinead is my favourite too, they have so many videos in and around London, the Windsor tour is one of my favourites
It made me smile seeing the look on your face, you really have to visit it.
I agree with you, Westminster Abbey and the surrounding area would be worthy of quite a few days visit to take it all in.
Sovereigns are no longer buried in Westminster Abbey: there is no more room. For some centuries, they have been laid to rest at Windsor inside St George's Chapel (except for Queen Victoria buried at Frogmore nearby).
Queen Elizabeth II is the first sovereign to have had a funeral ceremony in Westminster Abbey since 1760. During that following period, funerals were only held at Windsor, their burial place.
@Keith Bulley Agreed. The last Sovereign to be buried in the Abbey was King George II in 1760.
Coventry Cathedral is interesting with the old bombed site connecting to the new-which is a sign of hope. Worth looking for something on this.
The new cathedral is an eyesore.
I love your pauses,we can take in the stills and hear what you think and how you see it.Thats they great part of You Tube...interaction😄😄👍🏼
St Paul's cathedral is another fantastic church in London . You must go to the to the top and experience the whispering galley lots of history about St Pauls.
Amazing building, the architecture alone is inspiring never mind the many old tombs inside , my favourite building in London. 🙂
Sinead is a wonderful tour guide , her videos are wonderful I’ve been a subscriber of hers for quite a while
It took 4 mins for Princess Catherine to walk up the aisle.So well worth seeing.
The wedding of Katherine Middleton and Prince William. Listen to the music. The bells rang for three or four hours. The bells are rung to celebrate the birthdays of the very senior royals.
This Abby is breathtaking as you walk around the feeling is beyound words. Been within the Abby walls many times and you can truthy feel history and faith. Visit if you get the chance.
Until you have been to an abbey or cathedral you can’t comprehend the stunning architecture and craftsmanship that went int these buildings, it is awe inspiring.
Sure is curious to visit and knowing the many ancestors I have buried and memorialised here
The Tomb of the unknow Soldier is a really great and humbling thig to see.
When she says "in the walls", she actually means "within the walls", ie in the Minster and yes, they are under the floors.
I believe she meant buried within the area of the walls not actually in the wall itself.
Please note at 5:24 St Edward in the pic he is holding a gold ring with a sapphire it is the same sapphire in the state crown that was on top of the Queens coffin it is in the middle of the cross. It is the oldest gem in the crown jewels
When I was an art student our class were given permission to paint and draw the statues. They're even more magnificent up close. Every year I go to a thanksgiving service to celebrate the independence of St V & G (a commonwealth country) from the UK. The choir is absolutely amazing. It always makes me feel quite emotional. It's quite an experience.
Westminster is stunning, but it does suffer from just being so full of stuff. It's literally jam packed.
I love your RUclips videos and on a recent one you were talking about how some of our ancient buildings have been built. There was an excellent programme some years back in the UK called Secrets of the Castle. It is about the on-going building of a castle in France in the old style, using the original tools and ways of working. There are about 5/6 episodes with Ruth Goodman, Peter and Tom living on site for a while and helping with the labouring work. Fascinating if you like archecture and history.
The Abbey is absolutely beautiful masterpiece. A genius and a talented Master-Mason must've built that.
You may want to look up Newgrange in Ireland 🇮🇪. It's 5500 years old and still does what it was built to do.🙂
My ancestors were the Henry Tudors...Royalty and Geoffrey Chaucer was my 14 x cousin's grandfather. Must go and see them again sometime 😄
Not actually IN the walls, but WITHIN the walls! 😊
Westminster cathedral is just down the road and is beautiful as well
Thirty years ago, as a newcomer to London starting University here, I met various people, as you do, one of which was a layclerk (ie one of the professional choir members at Westminster - not the schoolboys who are obviously not the professional choir although they do obviously augment it). He, in turn, knew Rev John Hall, as he was then who I also got to know - who subsequently became the Very Rev John Hall, Dean of Westminster so was fortunate enough not only to sit right with the choir (technically behind, in the seats or "stalls" as you heard them called at the top/back) - including at least once for the annual outing of Allegri's Miserere at Easter - replete with the solo soprano being stationed elsewhere to give that stunning, ethereal, other worldly quality and which is even more dreamlike and surreal when you open your eyes and you're in an 800 year old building with the sound of something so precious coming from right there; and while the reality of the supposed secrecy surrounding the piece, in fact is somewhat less Byzantine than legend often ascribes to it, remains a stunning, late Renaissance masterpiece transported directly from the Sistine Chapel - in spite of Pope Urban VIII and his successors' best attempts at maintaining its performance uniquely within The Vatican - to Westminster.
On top of which, dinner at, and a tour of, the (mostly 17th century) private Dean's House.
To be fair, whilst it is undoubtedly spectacular, much of the portentous nature of the building is its connection to Royalty and famous people along with its position absolutely plum in the very centre of London. As a few of your other subscribers have commented, there are actually bigger, older and arguably finer examples of ecclesiastical architecture all over England - I could suggest to you the cathedrals of Canterbury, Wells, Winchester, Durham, Ely, Lincoln, York, Norwich and Salisbury for starters, each and every one of which - while lacking the unique almost continuous Royal "thread" - are absolutely stonking and in every other way, at least the equal (and some, easily better) than Westminster. There are several really great films which cover them - bless her, there was nothing wrong with your choice here, but it was literally, a ground level skip round with a tour guide holding her own camera. There are FAR better possibilities in terms of the stateliness of the panoramas available to really get a feel for the majesty of these architectural wonders, the choice of slightly wonky hand held camerawork was rather frustrating and disappointing. If you are interested either privately or as "American guy Reacts to...." in exploring these further, I would be happy to provide you the links to the very best of the best and no, I have no association with any of the program makers, nor sponsorship nor commission - I just know quality when I see it! Anyway at last, you've scratched something all Americans itch with and now we can all relax a bit😆
Love your vids keep up the good work. You should research some of our other Cathedrals too such as Lincoln, Peterborough, York, Canterbury... the list goes on and on but some are on par with Westminster Abbey.
You should also check out St Pauls Cathedral - one of the most iconic sites of the London skyline and if you get the chance go to Canterbury Cathedral - about an hour and 20mins by train from London and check out Leeds Castle on the way.
Bishop Dunstan was born down the road from me, 900 metres away, Baltonsborough, Somerset, our church is named after him,
Go see it my Man!!!🇨🇦❤️🇬🇧🙏🏼
Looking at the towers...calling Fred Dibnah😃😂😂
Hi there. I have never been to Westminster Abbey but I have been to York Minster and Durham Catherdral both amazing places that you would love. I live in Coventry, well known for our cathedral that was bombed during the 2nd world war and it's modern replacement which is remarkable in it's own way. I remember in my early teens watching from my bedroom window while the cross was place on the pylon on the roof by a helicopter. We have always called that "cross" the dying duck. I hope you manage to get here soon. All the best Jill.
Steve, in answer to your question the Abbey is 530 feet in length (exterior dimension). And thank you for reacting to this footage, all most interesting. I visited the Abbey in 2014 but as you say, you really need several days to take it in. On another day we took in (the present) St. Pauls cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren it replaced the Norman cathedral which was burnt down in the Great Fire of London in 1666. Old St. Pauls (the fourth cathedral on that site on Ludgate Hill and started in 1087) when completed was one of the longest cathedrals in the world at 586 feet. The nave was called St. Pauls walk due to its length. "New" St. Pauls is worth reacting to.
Within these walls is just a phrase for in the building. Having said that crypts have had tombs cut into the foundations.
It really is an amazing Abbey, truly worth visiting to take in so much history in such a beautiful setting. It is one place I revisit because of its stunning beauty.
I entered this fantastic place at around 1100 hours and exited at around 1640hrs a few years ago. I did not get see everything I wanted to see, so a few months later I returned.
I've watched several of Siobhan's tours. If you want to learn about different parts of London she's the person to watch. Free Tours by Foot. I'm a Londoner by birth and anscestry and know a good bit about London but even I learnt stuff from her.
Not sure but on other videos of hers commenters were calling her sinead
Surely Jules. (Black bowler and umbrella)
This is a example why people who visit Britain shouldn't rush around the country. Britain is small but there's so much to see.
I believe quite a lot of medieval stained glass was removed for safekeeping during The Blitz.
For the most part, they arent burried in the walls, she means within the building, but whos to say for sure, although there is speculated to be a mausoleum inside the church, below ground, which is literally , graves in the walls!, I think with london being so big but compact, and for a lack of space for a decent sized graveyard, diggin below the floor and further down was probably the only option, hope that helps!
loves your enthusiasim
If you listen to Song for Athena by Taverner, which was sung at Princess Diana's funeral you will hear what the song sounded like when it was sung at her funeral!. Love your videos!
More proof that although we are a small country in square mileage we are also a huge one in historical context. The lady guiding us round did an excellent job although I would point out that Elgar is pronounced as spelt and not ‘Elga’. I also think that the great English conductor Sir Adrian Boult might have been better served by being called that rather than by his inscription ‘Adrian Cedric Boult’ which sounds as though he might have been a worthy background figure somehow related to music. This is mere nitpicking I know!
It's wonderful to see your enthusiasm. I would love to be there when you actually pay a visit to see your reaction which you will hopefully be filming. Please pay a visit to our country soon. You will be most welcome.
You might want to check out Lucy worsely's documentaries, she has quite a few on historical sites and has a 2 part on the abbey. I think she works for some british historical society she gets some behind the scenes fotoage that no average person gets.
Lucy Worsley is the joint chief curator of historical royal palaces and has done some very entertaining TV programmes
in the walls! oh i laughed my face off, thanks mate
I would recommend you watch more videos made by this wonderful lady Sinead. VERY informative.
It was excellent One to rewatch
@@helenbailey8419 Very much so Helen, yes.