Who Currently Lives in Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, often referred to as the Collegiate Church of St Peter, is a unique and historic site in London. It stands as a testament to over 1,000 years of history, serving not as a cathedral or a parish church but a living, breathing monument to the luminaries and the dead.

While no-one lives in Westminster Abbey as such, the campus surrounding it is bustling with life and activity. This article delves into the current inhabitants, from the clergy to the staff, and the living spaces and functions that make this historic site a vital part of London's cultural landscape.

Dead but Not Forgotten: Famous Burials

Westminster Abbey's title includes countless famous names of former residents. Through the centuries, it has been the final resting place for many of England's most distinguished figures, including:

Sir Isaac Newton, the renowned mathematician and physicist, buried after his death in 1727. Stephen Hawking, the renowned theoretical physicist, who was memorialized in the abbey in 2018, though he is not buried there due to cremation. Charles Dickens, the beloved author, who is laid to rest in a vault in the Poets' Corner of the abbey. David Livingstone, the celebrated explorer and missionary, who has a memorial stone in the abbey. 13 Kings and 4 Queens regnant who have reigned over England, each resting in a fitting sepulcher within the hallowed walls. 11 Queens consort who supported these monarchs, each holding their own place in history.

Current Inhabitants: The Living Community

Despite not being home to any living individuals, Westminster Abbey is far from deserted. The site is home to a variety of inhabitants, including:

Residential Staff

A number of key personnel live on the abbey grounds to serve and maintain the site:

Master of the Choristers and Sub-Organist: These positions are crucial for the abbey's daily services and musical activities. Dean and Canons: Leading members of the clerical team who oversee and manage the abbey's religious and administrative functions. Choristers: Young singers who form the choir and live and perform at the abbey. Receiver General and Inspector of the Fabric: Roles focused on the maintenance and repair of the abbey's structures and artifacts. Other Staff Members

The Abbey’s choir school, where the choristers reside, is an integral part of maintaining the abbey’s musical traditions. These dedicated individuals are not only instrumental in the spiritual and cultural life of Westminster Abbey but also help preserve its historical significance.

Life in the Abbey Precincts

While the main part of Westminster Abbey is a hallowed place, the surrounding precincts are home to a vibrant community. Here, the living and the dead intermingle in a manner that is both unique and profound:

Quiet and Well Behaved Neighbors: The living in the abbey's grounds, whether clergy or staff, are known for their respectful demeanor towards the tombs and memorials that dot the landscape. Residents are all dead: A surprising twist that underscores the dual nature of the site, where the past and the present coexist.

Conclusion

Westminster Abbey stands as a shared space for both the living and the dead. Its history, culture, and the current lives of those who work and study there showcase the enduring legacy of this historic site. Whether you are a visitor, a student, or a staff member, the abbey is a testament to the intergenerational connection that defines its essence.