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Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the rich history of the Palace of Westminster, explore the House of Commons and House of Lords, and admire the magnificent architecture. Don't miss seeing the iconic Big Ben and taking photos of the Parliament building from the nearby Westminster Bridge.
The Palace of Westminster is a representative work of British Romantic architecture and the first Gothic Revival masterpiece among large public buildings. Known for its extensive collection of murals, paintings, sculptures, and other artworks, it is known as the "Unsung Art Museum" and is a World Heritage Site. The current palace, largely a result of a 19th-century reconstruction, retains many historical relics from its original construction, such as Westminster Hall, which is now used for major public ceremonies and displays before state funerals.
Suitable for all seasons;
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 1-3 hours;
Famous attractions: Big Ben.
Adults: £18.50
Students: £16
Children: £7.50
Seniors: 16 pounds
One adult ticket can bring one child for free
Monday to Friday 09:00–17:00
Closed Saturday to Sunday
The Palace of Westminster, also known as the Houses of Parliament, is the seat of the UK Parliament. It has a long history dating back to the 11th century and has been the site of many pivotal moments in British history. The iconic Big Ben and the clock tower are part of this complex, and the building itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Palace of Westminster is located on the north bank of the River Thames in Westminster, central London. The nearest metro station is Westminster (Jubilee, District, and Circle lines). It is also accessible by bus, taxi, or by walking from other central London attractions.
The Palace of Westminster is generally open for guided tours on weekdays. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds. Note that the Palace is closed to the public when Parliament is in session.
The entry fee for a guided tour is approximately £25 for adults, with discounts for students and children. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the on-site ticket office. Booking in advance is recommended for popular times.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, particularly for weekends and public holidays. Tickets can be booked online several weeks in advance.
Plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the Palace of Westminster, including a guided tour. If attending a session of Parliament, the visit may take longer, depending on the schedule.
The must-see highlights include the iconic Big Ben, the House of Commons, the House of Lords, and Westminster Hall, which is the oldest part of the Palace. The Central Lobby and the St Stephen's Hall are also notable areas to explore.
Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian. Audio guides are also available in these languages and can be used for a self-guided experience.
The best photography spots include the view of Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster from Westminster Bridge. Inside, be sure to capture shots of the Central Lobby and the Houses of Parliament, particularly during a sitting.
Start your visit with a guided tour to explore the main chambers: the House of Commons, House of Lords, and Westminster Hall. Follow the tour route and be sure to visit the Central Lobby and St Stephen's Hall. If time permits, head to the terrace for views of the Thames.
While the Palace of Westminster is not typically open for night visits, you can attend evening sessions of Parliament when in session. Special events and tours may be available during certain times of the year, such as the “Behind the Scenes” tours.
The Palace can get crowded during peak tourist season, especially in the summer and around public holidays. Early mornings on weekdays tend to be the least crowded times.
Facilities at the Palace of Westminster include public restrooms, a café, a gift shop, and rest areas. There are also a few places to purchase water and snacks on-site.
The Palace of Westminster is wheelchair accessible, and there are provisions for elderly visitors and families with children. However, due to the historic nature of the building, some areas may be difficult to access for those with mobility issues. Please check in advance for special requirements.
Cards and mobile payments are accepted throughout the Palace, including at the ticket office, gift shop, and café. Cash is also accepted.
The Palace has a café offering light refreshments. Nearby, there are many restaurants and cafes, including those in Victoria and Westminster, offering a variety of cuisines.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available both inside the café at the Palace and in nearby restaurants.
Nearby hotels include The Westminster Hotel, St. Ermin’s Hotel, and The Royal Horseguards Hotel. There are also budget options and hostels in the surrounding area.
Nearby attractions include the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the Tate Britain Museum. These can all be easily combined in a day trip around Westminster.
Yes, there is a gift shop inside the Palace of Westminster, where you can purchase souvenirs like books, Parliament-themed gifts, and UK memorabilia.
After visiting, you can easily continue your trip by metro from Westminster Station, or take a bus to nearby areas like Covent Garden or Trafalgar Square. Walking is also an option, as many major landmarks are within walking distance.
