Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament

Where it is & how to get there

• Tube: Westminster station (Jubilee, District and Circle lines) is opposite.
• Best views: From Westminster Bridge, Parliament Square or the South Bank.
• Tours: Guided tours of Parliament run on Saturdays and during recesses; book online.

The story of Big Ben

The Palace of Westminster was rebuilt in Gothic Revival style by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin after a fire in 1834. It is the home of the UK Parliament and, with Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Big Ben is the nickname of the Great Bell inside the clock tower, completed in 1859 and renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012. After a major restoration from 2017 to 2022, its clock faces shine again in their original colours.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• The best photo is from Westminster Bridge or the South Bank.
• Cross Westminster Bridge for the classic photo with a red bus.
• Hear Big Ben strike the hour from Parliament Square.

What's around Big Ben

• Westminster AbbeyCoronation church since 1066.
• London EyeAcross the river.
• Downing StreetPrime Minister's residence.
• St James's ParkRoyal park nearby.

Questions travellers ask