Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

The basics

The best way to see the Houses of Parliament & Big Ben is from afar to appreciate the scale of the 315-foot (96-meter) clock tower while also avoiding crowds nearby. Popular ways to admire the clock include taking a ride on the nearby London Eye or opting for a Thames River cruise. Alternatively, city tours of London—on foot or by hop-on, hop-off bus—typically pass by Big Ben, also stopping at Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London.

To go inside the Houses of Parliament, arrange an official tour or watch a debate from the public galleries. Big Ben is only accessible to UK residents.

Things to know before you go

• House of Parliament & Big Ben tours are usually separate. Most half- and full-day tours of London include Big Ben, whether visitors explore on foot, by bike, or via bus.

• Take 10 minutes to admire the statues in Parliament Square, all of which depict famous political figures.

• Guided tours of the Houses of Parliament run most Saturdays, and the public galleries are open when parliament is in session.

• Big Ben is only accessible to United Kingdom residents, who must request permission from their local member of parliament to visit.

• Stop by after dark to see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament illuminated.

How to get there

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are located on the north bank of the River Thames, easily accessible from the Westminster underground tube station, which is serviced by the Jubilee, Circle, and District lines. You can also hop off at Waterloo station to wander along the vibrant South Bank, past the London Eye, before crossing Westminster Bridge to reach Big Ben.

When to get there

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are must-sees of London vacations year-round. A particularly great time to visit is on New Year's Eve, when fireworks light the sky in a riot of color right in front of Big Ben. Be sure to book tickets for the fireworks display well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Why is Big Ben called Big Ben?

The origins of Big Ben, the popular—if not strictly official—name for the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament, is a subject of much debate. Some attribute the nickname to Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the Great Bell’s installation, while others give credit to English heavyweight boxer Benjamin “Big Ben” Caunt. (Also, Big Ben is technically the name of the Great Bell, not the tower as a whole.)

Ways to explore

The best way to appreciate the clock tower is on a Thames River sightseeing cruise, many of which begin at the history-rich district of Greenwich. Some cruises include a gourmet meal or afternoon tea. The London Eye offers unrivaled monument views, and skip-the-line tickets save you hours. Alternatively, flexible hop-on hop-off bus tours nearly always pass by Big Ben.

You can go inside the Palace of Westminster on a Houses of Parliament tour, which grants you rare access to the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Or, explore the inner workings of Big Ben on a tour up a spiral staircase to the belfry, where Big Ben (which refers to the bell rather than the tower) resides.

Accessibility

Step-free access, elevators, and rentable wheelchairs mean the Houses of Parliament are wheelchair-accessible. The 334 steps to the top mean Big Ben is not accessible.

Age limits

Children must be at least 11 to climb Big Ben.

What to pack

A warm jacket, as it’s windy at the top of the tower

What to wear

Sturdy shoes for climbing stairs, smart casual attire for the Houses of Parliament

Not allowed

Eating and drinking, photography in certain areas, flip-flops if climbing Big Ben

Amenities

Jubilee Café, gift shop, restrooms, baby changing facilities, prayer room

Address

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are on the north bank of the Thames River.

Driving

While you can drive to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, navigating the traffic-choked roads of central London is not only inconvenient, but also expensive, as you’ll be subject to the Central London Congestion Charge. It’s best to hail a traditional black cab.

Public transportation

Westminster London Underground station on the Jubilee, Circle, and District lines is a few minutes’ walk from the landmark. You can also hop off at Waterloo station to wander along the vibrant South Bank, past the London Eye, before crossing Westminster Bridge to reach Big Ben.

Best times to visit

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament look particularly impressive at night when illuminated. Westminster Bridge is a perfect place to watch the sunset over the Thames River.

Best days to visit

Visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday to avoid the crowds that visit for long weekends from mainland Europe.

Best months to visit

London comes alive in spring and summer, so visit from May through September for the best weather and liveliest atmosphere.

Special events

London puts on a spectacular fireworks show for New Year’s Eve, when Big Ben rings in the new year. Arrive early for a prime spot.