Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament
About Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament
The iconic clock tower — officially the Elizabeth Tower — rising above the Palace of Westminster on the banks of the Thames, home to the UK Parliament and one of the most recognised silhouettes in the world.
History & Heritage
The name 'Big Ben' originally referred not to the tower but to the Great Bell housed within it, cast in 1858 and weighing over 13 tonnes. The tower itself was completed in 1859 as part of Sir Charles Barry's grand Gothic Revival rebuilding of the Palace of Westminster, following the catastrophic fire of 1834 that destroyed the medieval palace. The intricate detailing was the work of architect Augustus Pugin, whose designs defined the Victorian Gothic style.
For over 160 years the clock's chimes have marked time for the nation, broadcast by the BBC and heard around the world. In 2012 the tower was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in honour of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. A major conservation programme running through the late 2010s and early 2020s restored the stonework, ironwork and the clock's original colour scheme to its Victorian splendour.
What to Expect
Expect one of London's definitive photo opportunities, best captured from Westminster Bridge or the South Bank across the river. While the tower interior is open only to UK residents via their MP, visitors can tour the Houses of Parliament to see Westminster Hall, the debating chambers and centuries of political history. The surrounding area takes in Parliament Square, Westminster Abbey and the start of Whitehall's ceremonial route.
Known For
Highlights
- Gothic Revival architecture
- Chiming clock
- Guided Parliament tours
- Westminster Bridge views
- Statue of Boudica nearby
- Portcullis House
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you go inside Big Ben?
- Tours of the Elizabeth Tower are available to UK residents only, arranged through their Member of Parliament. Overseas visitors cannot climb the tower but can tour the rest of the Houses of Parliament.
- Why is it called Big Ben?
- Big Ben is technically the nickname of the Great Bell inside the tower. The tower itself was called the Clock Tower until 2012, when it was renamed the Elizabeth Tower for Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.
- What is the nearest tube station to Big Ben?
- Westminster station is directly beside the Houses of Parliament, served by the Jubilee, District and Circle lines.
More London Landmarks
Buckingham Palace
The London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch, famous for its balcony appearances, the Changing of the Guard ceremony and the opulent State Rooms opened to visitors each summer.
Westminster Abbey
A magnificent Gothic church and UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been the coronation church of English and British monarchs since 1066, and the burial place of kings, poets and scientists.
Trafalgar Square
London's grand civic square at the heart of the West End, dominated by Nelson's Column and its bronze lions, and framed by the National Gallery and the church of St Martin-in-the-Fields.