Lambeth Palace is the London home of the Archbishop of Canterbury, on the banks of the River Thames, and has served as the archbishop’s residence for more than 800 years. Public access is limited to guided tours and special opening events, so check availability before planning a visit. Tours can include the Crypt, Guard Room, Chapel and library, which holds a large collection of church records. Inside, look for the State Rooms, ornate ceilings and a textile coronation mitre given by a Japanese clergyman; the gardens are another part of the grounds to explore.
The Archbishop of Canterbury’s London home
Lambeth Palace stands on the south bank of the River Thames and has been the London home of the Archbishop of Canterbury for more than 800 years. It is among the few medieval buildings remaining in London. The palace still serves as the archbishop’s residence, so public visits take place on selected guided tours and special opening days rather than through daily access.
Because the palace is a working residence, visitors can see only some of its rooms. Check tour availability before making plans, and look for special events such as Open House when they are scheduled.
Rooms, chapel and library
Guided tours can take visitors through the Crypt, Guard Room, Chapel and library. The library holds one of the largest collections of church records, giving it particular interest for visitors curious about the history of the Church. The palace also has State Rooms and notable ceilings; access to individual rooms depends on the tour.
Among the objects noted inside is a textile coronation mitre gifted by a Japanese clergyman. Guides and volunteers can add context as you move through the rooms, so ask them about the spaces and objects on view.
The gardens and planning a visit
The palace gardens are maintained and can be a pleasant place to spend time when open to visitors. Visitors have also found food available in the gardens during some opening events, including a pop-up café, but this is not a daily service.
Plan around the opening or tour dates rather than arriving expecting general access. Ticket arrangements may require advance planning. Wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking are listed among the site’s facilities.
Preguntas frecuentes
Can you visit Lambeth Palace?
Yes, but public access is limited to guided tours and special opening events. The palace is not open to the public every day.
What can you see inside Lambeth Palace?
Tours can include the Crypt, Guard Room, Chapel and library, as well as some State Rooms. Access to rooms is limited because the palace is the Archbishop of Canterbury’s residence.
Does Lambeth Palace have a library?
Yes. Its library holds one of the largest collections of church records.
How long do you need at Lambeth Palace?
The available information does not specify a typical visit length.
