Big Ben & Houses of Parliament

Overview

The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is the spectacular, gothic-revival seat of the United Kingdom government. It is breathtakingly anchored by the iconic Elizabeth Tower, universally known by the name of its massive bell: Big Ben.

Highlights

• Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben): The 96-metre-tall, exceptionally famous clock tower that stands as the ultimate symbol of London and chimes the hour.
• Westminster Hall: The oldest, impossibly grand surviving part of the original medieval palace, featuring a magnificent, sweeping hammer-beam roof dating to 1097.
• The Thames View: The classic, iconic view of the sprawling gothic facade reflected in the River Thames, especially dramatic at sunset.

History

A royal palace has stood on this strategic riverside site since the 11th century. However, the current, detailed neo-Gothic masterpiece was designed by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin after a catastrophic fire destroyed the original medieval complex in 1834. It has been the center of English political power for centuries.

Visitor Tips

• Tours: If you are an overseas visitor, you can book excellent, informative guided tours on Saturdays and during the summer parliamentary recess.
• Prime Minister's Questions: UK residents can arrange strictly controlled access to watch the dramatically raucous PMQs from the public viewing galleries.
• Duration: 90 minutes (for a tour) or 15–20 minutes to view the exterior from Westminster Bridge.