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Big Ben is one of London's iconic landmarks and one of the world's most famous Gothic structures. The large chime clock in the clock tower attached to the Houses of Parliament holds a significant position. Located on the banks of the River Thames in London, it is a focal point for New Year's celebrations and, on Remembrance Day, the chiming of the Elizabeth Tower marks the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month and the beginning of a two-minute silence.
May and June are the best months, followed by July and August.
It has a temperate oceanic climate with small temperature differences between the four seasons. The summers are cool and the winters are warm. The air is humid with frequent rain and fog, especially in autumn and winter.
It is recommended to play for 2 hours;
Nearby attractions: National Gallery, Oxford Street, Thames River, London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, etc.
free
All day (exterior) (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)
Big Ben is one of the most iconic landmarks in London, and the clock tower is part of the Palace of Westminster. The tower, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, was completed in 1859. It was designed to house the Great Bell, which chimes the iconic "Big Ben" sound, and has become a symbol of British history and parliamentary democracy.
Big Ben is located in Westminster, central London. You can reach it easily via the Westminster Underground station (Circle, Jubilee, District, and Bakerloo lines), which is a short walk from the site. It's also accessible by bus, taxi, or walking from major London landmarks.
Big Ben itself is not open to the public for tours, but the exterior can be viewed at any time. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the crowds. The Houses of Parliament, nearby, are open for guided tours from Monday to Saturday, with a seasonal schedule for peak periods.
There is no entrance fee to view Big Ben from the outside. However, if you wish to visit the Houses of Parliament, tickets are required, typically priced around £25. You can buy tickets online or at the visitor center near Westminster Abbey.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. For the Houses of Parliament tour, it's advisable to book at least 1-2 weeks in advance to secure your preferred time.
Since Big Ben is a landmark you typically view from the outside, 15-20 minutes are sufficient for a quick visit. However, if you plan to explore the Houses of Parliament, allow 1-2 hours for the tour.
While Big Ben itself is not open for public tours, the nearby Houses of Parliament offers an incredible experience, including the House of Commons, House of Lords, and Westminster Hall. The Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) can be admired from the exterior, particularly from Westminster Bridge.
Guided tours of the Houses of Parliament are available in English and other languages, including French, German, and Spanish. Audio guides are also available for those exploring at their own pace.
If visiting the Houses of Parliament, start with the Westminster Hall, then visit the House of Commons, followed by the House of Lords. End with a stop at the St Stephen’s Hall for historical artifacts. If you're just visiting Big Ben, take in the exterior from Westminster Bridge, then head to the nearby Westminster Abbey.
Big Ben does not offer night visits or light shows, but the tower is beautifully lit up at night. The Houses of Parliament do not have evening tours, but evening light provides a fantastic view of the structure and clock tower.
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament can get crowded, particularly during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer). Early mornings, weekdays, and off-peak months (autumn and winter) are the least crowded times to visit.
There are public toilets near Westminster and inside the Houses of Parliament. There are also cafes and shops in the nearby area, including along Victoria Embankment. For food and water, consider bringing your own or purchasing from nearby vendors.
Big Ben's exterior is fully accessible, including for those with mobility issues. The Houses of Parliament have wheelchair access, and there are audio guides available for children and visitors with special needs.
Credit and debit cards, as well as mobile payment methods like Apple Pay, are accepted at most venues near Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. It’s advisable to carry a small amount of cash for convenience in some shops or markets around the area.
Many nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as The Red Lion pub. Halal options can be found at several eateries in Westminster, including Middle Eastern cuisine establishments.
There are souvenir shops near Big Ben where you can find London-themed items such as keychains, mugs, T-shirts, and miniature Big Ben models.
