

In addition, each committee session is free of charge, but you must provide proof of identification to enter.
Visiting big ben clock tower for free#
The Public Galleries can be accessed for free via the visitor entrance at Cromwell Green during Question Time. While parliament is in session, visitors can view the Visitors’ Gallery, but queues can be extended. Only UK residents are allowed to tour Big Ben, while international visitors are allowed to attend debates and watch committee meetings. Visitors looking to walk up to the clock must be over 11 years old and prepare to climb up 334 steps unaided without assistance.Īyrton Light on Clock Tower will fly a flag at night when parliament is sitting, and the flag outside Victoria Tower during the day when parliament is sitting.Travellers looking to enjoy the experience are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes earlier than their scheduled time.However, self-guided tours are available if you are not interested in taking a guided tour. The buildings are open to the public for free tours that provide historical information and guide visitors through sections not accessible to the public.Generally, the Public Gallery at the House of Lords lines is shorter. Over the summer holidays, queues can be extremely long, so arrive early.Switchroom Cafeteria at the Churchill Museum.Peers Dining Room at the House of the Lords.Enjoy a relaxing day exploring St James’s Park.Get a glimpse of London history at the Battle of Britain Monument.

Visit the impressive Nelson Mandela Statue.Capture the incredible architecture of the UK Supreme Court.Take a picture next to the Winston Churchill Statue.The first chimes of Big Ben chimed were 160 years ago.There are pennies on the pendulum of the clock.A clockmaker did not design the clock tower.Finally, as you make your way to other parts of the palace, expect to see the largest hammer to have been built globally. This includes the likes of Guy Fawkes, William Wallace and Charles I. Furthermore, this popular attraction features a display of plaques that list prominent historical figures who were tried here. Highlights of Big Ben and The Palace of Westminsterĭespite the gorgeous architecture and massive clock tower of the Palace of Westminster, you may be surprised to learn that British politicians convene there, and you may even get to attend a House of Commons meeting. Also, check out some of these incredible London Hotels Special Offers if you plan on travelling over London’s peak period. Visitors looking to explore these two incredible structures in London book a stay at Hotel In Cumberland Place and check out this first-timers guide to visiting Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in London. Today visitors will note this magnificent landmark is referred to as the Elizabeth Tower and stands over 96 meters tall, while the Palace of Westminster is the current seat of parliament.

It’s hard to envision London without thinking of the Houses of Parliament and the incredible clock tower. There are many iconic London landmarks dotted about the city, but none stands out as more recognizable or symbolic of London’s culture than Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
