The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is the meeting place of the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom—the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Attached to it is Big Ben, which is commonly mistaken as the name of the clock tower but actually refers to the Great Bell inside the tower. The tower itself was officially renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.
Yes, the Houses of Parliament offer guided and self-guided tours for visitors. However, tours are available only on certain days, depending on parliamentary business, and normally have to be booked in advance. As for Big Ben, it is not open for public tours, but you can admire the iconic clock tower from outside.
You can book a tour through the official UK Parliament website or purchase tickets from the ticket office on site. It's recommended to book in advance to ensure a spot on the tour.
A typical tour of the Houses of Parliament includes visits to the Commons and Lords Chambers, the Queen's Robing Room, the Royal Gallery, and Westminster Hall. Guides usually provide historical context and interesting anecdotes about the political history and workings of the UK government.
Visitors must pass through security checks similar to those at airports. Large bags, sharp objects, and some other items are not allowed. Photography is restricted in certain areas. Visitors with disabilities can access most of the tour route, but it's best to check accessibility options in advance.
The best time to visit is generally early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds. Tours are typically less busy on weekdays. For Big Ben, any time is a good time for a photo, but it's particularly impressive when lit up at night.
There is a fee for tours of the Houses of Parliament, but watching debates from the public galleries when Parliament is in session is free of charge. However, entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's recommended to arrive early.
The closest underground station is Westminster, served by the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby, and the location is within walking distance of other major landmarks along the River Thames.
Yes, there is a gift shop on site where visitors can purchase souvenirs, including books, stationery, and other Parliament-themed memorabilia.
Big Ben has been under restoration and its clock mechanism has been paused at times for maintenance, with the tower also shrouded in scaffolding. Before you visit, check the latest updates on its status to know if it's visible or if you'll be able to hear the famous bell chime.
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