Discover the magnificent Elizabeth Tower, home to the world's most famous clock and bell, standing proudly at the heart of Westminster for over 160 years
Exclusive access to the Elizabeth Tower with expert guide. Climb 334 steps to the belfry, see the Great Clock mechanism, and enjoy spectacular views across London
Comprehensive tour of the Palace of Westminster including Big Ben exterior, Houses of Parliament chambers, and Westminster Hall with professional guide
Magical evening walking tour through Westminster's historic streets. See Big Ben beautifully illuminated, explore Parliament Square, and discover hidden stories of British democracy under the city lights
Big Ben, officially known as Elizabeth Tower, is the magnificent 316-foot Gothic Revival clock tower that has dominated London's skyline since 1859. This architectural masterpiece houses the world's most famous bell and one of the most accurate four-faced striking clocks ever built.
Designed by Sir Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin, the tower stands as a testament to Victorian engineering brilliance and British craftsmanship. After undergoing extensive restoration from 2017-2021, Big Ben continues to serve as both a functional timekeeper and powerful symbol of British parliamentary democracy.
From the intricate Gothic stonework to the precision clock mechanism, every detail tells the story of Britain's rich heritage. Join us to discover the secrets behind this UNESCO World Heritage landmark that has chimed through centuries of British history.
Discover History
Experience the world's most recognizable clock tower and bell, a powerful symbol of British democracy and parliamentary government for over 160 years.
Discover the precision mechanics of one of the world's most accurate clocks, featuring the Great Bell weighing 13.5 tons and intricate clockwork mechanisms.
Marvel at Augustus Pugin's Gothic Revival masterpiece, featuring intricate stone carvings, national emblems, and architectural details representing all four UK nations.
Part of the Palace of Westminster UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding universal value to humanity and exceptional historical significance.
1834 - Palace Fire: The devastating fire at the old Palace of Westminster creates the need for a new parliament building and clock tower, setting the stage for Big Ben's creation.
1843-1859 - Construction: Sir Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin design and build the Gothic Revival tower, incorporating intricate stonework, national emblems, and the world's most sophisticated clock mechanism of its time.
1859 - First Chimes: The Great Bell begins chiming for the first time, earning its famous nickname "Big Ben" after Sir Benjamin Hall, the Commissioner of Works who oversaw its installation.
2012 - Elizabeth Tower: Renamed in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, recognizing her long service to the Commonwealth and British people.
2017-2021 - Restoration: Major conservation work restores the tower to its Victorian splendor, ensuring Big Ben continues chiming for future generations.
Explore architectural details
Marvel at one of the world's most accurate timepieces, designed by Edmund Beckett Denison. The massive clock mechanism, with its 22.5-foot diameter faces, has kept precise time for over 160 years using the original Victorian machinery.
Discover the famous 13.5-ton "Big Ben" bell that gives the tower its nickname. Cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, this bronze masterpiece creates the distinctive chimes that have marked British time for generations.
Observe the special lantern above the belfry that lights up whenever the House of Commons sits after dark. This democratic beacon has served as a visible symbol of parliamentary activity since 1873.
Admire Augustus Pugin's intricate Gothic Revival design featuring 52 shields with national emblems of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, plus historical symbols representing Britain's rich heritage.
Make the most of your Big Ben experience with these essential planning tips:
Address: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom
Nearest Underground: Westminster Station (Circle, District, Jubilee lines)
Coordinates: 51°30'03"N 0°07'28"W
Big Ben stands majestically at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, overlooking the River Thames and Parliament Square. The iconic clock tower is easily accessible from central London and serves as a focal point for exploring Westminster's historic landmarks.
Yes! Private tower tours are available for UK residents and international visitors. The climb involves 334 steps to the belfry and requires advance booking due to limited capacity and security requirements.
Tower tours must be booked through official UK Parliament channels or authorized tour operators like GetYourGuide. Advance booking is essential as tours are limited and fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
From the belfry, you'll enjoy panoramic views across London including the Thames, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, and central London landmarks. You'll also see the Great Bell up close and the intricate clock mechanism.
Big Ben chimes every 15 minutes with the Westminster Quarters melody, and strikes the hour with the famous "bongs." The full chiming sequence happens 24 hours a day, though it may be temporarily silenced during maintenance.
Unfortunately, the tower climb involves 334 stone steps with no elevator access, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users. However, the exterior viewing areas and nearby Westminster attractions are accessible.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) provides the best lighting. For night photography, Big Ben is beautifully illuminated. Westminster Bridge and Parliament Square offer excellent vantage points.
Yes! Parliament Square, Westminster Bridge, and Thames walkways offer excellent free views of Big Ben. The south bank of the Thames also provides great photo opportunities across the river.
