Big Ben: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to Big Ben, an enduring symbol of London’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Officially named the Elizabeth Tower, this iconic structure at the north end of the Palace of Westminster houses the Great Bell, nicknamed Big Ben, weighing over 13 tons. Renowned for its Gothic Revival design and precise timekeeping, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring London. Whether you’re capturing its illuminated clock faces at night or joining a rare tour inside, Big Ben offers a captivating experience steeped in British heritage.

Location

Big Ben stands at Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, on the north bank of the River Thames, adjacent to the Palace of Westminster. Its central location near Westminster Bridge and Westminster Abbey makes it a focal point of London’s historic district. Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for precise navigation to this landmark.

Opening Hours

Big Ben is visible 24/7 from the outside, making it accessible for viewing at any time. Guided tours inside the Elizabeth Tower, when available, typically run from 9:15 AM to 4:45 PM, Monday to Friday, with specific time slots. Tours may be limited due to ongoing conservation work, so always check the UK Parliament visiting page for the latest schedule and availability.

How to Get There

Big Ben’s central location ensures easy access:

• By Tube: Westminster station (Circle, District, and Jubilee lines) is a 5-minute walk away. St. James’s Park (Circle and District lines) is a 10-minute walk.
• By Bus: Routes 3, 11, 12, 24, 53, 87, 88, 148, 159, 211, 453, and 786 stop near Parliament Square or Westminster Bridge. Check Transport for London for routes and schedules.
• By Train: Waterloo and Charing Cross stations are nearby, with connections to the Tube or a short walk (10-15 minutes).
• By Bicycle: Santander Cycles docking stations are available on Millbank and Great College Street. Cycling along the Thames offers a scenic route.
• By Car: Parking is limited and costly in central London. Nearby options include Q-Park Westminster, but public transport is strongly recommended.
• By River Boat: Uber Boat by Thames Clippers stops at Westminster Pier, a 5-minute walk away.

For real-time travel updates, use apps like TfL Go or Citymapper.

Best Time to Visit

For external viewing, early mornings or late evenings provide a quieter experience and stunning photo opportunities, especially when the clock faces are illuminated at night. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, particularly during peak tourist seasons (June–August). For tours inside the Elizabeth Tower, book well in advance, as slots are limited and highly sought after. Off-peak months like November or March offer fewer crowds. Check the UK Parliament events page for any special events or closures due to maintenance.

Tickets and Costs

• External Viewing: Free, with no tickets required to admire Big Ben from outside.
• Elizabeth Tower Tours: When available, tickets cost approximately £25 for adults, with free entry for children under 11 (must be accompanied by an adult). Tours are limited to UK residents with a UK address due to security protocols, and booking is required via the UK Parliament website. Prices and availability may change, so verify online.

Ticket Type	Price
External Viewing	Free
Adult Tour (18+)	~£25
Child Tour (11-17)	Free
Child (Under 11)	Not permitted

What to Expect

Visiting Big Ben offers a blend of external admiration and, when available, an immersive tour inside:

• Outside: Marvel at the 316-foot (96-meter) Gothic Revival tower, with its four illuminated clock faces and hourly chimes audible up to 5 miles away. The area around Westminster Bridge and Parliament Square is lively with tourists, street performers, and photo opportunities.
• Inside Tours (when available): Climb 334 steps to the belfry, see the Great Bell (Big Ben), and explore the clock mechanism designed by Edmund Beckett Denison. Tours last about 90 minutes, include historical insights, and offer panoramic views of London. Ear defenders are provided due to high noise levels from the clock and bells.
• Facilities: No on-site facilities like restrooms or cafes are available at the tower itself, but nearby Westminster Hall and surrounding areas offer amenities.

A typical external visit takes 15-30 minutes, while a full tour, including the surrounding area, may take 1.5-2 hours. Audio guides are not provided, but tour guides offer detailed commentary during internal visits.

Safety and Accessibility

• Safety: The area around Big Ben is generally safe, with security presence due to its proximity to the Palace of Westminster. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and keep valuables secure. Tours include safety briefings, and ear defenders are provided for noise.
• Accessibility: The exterior is fully accessible, with level pathways around Parliament Square and Westminster Bridge. However, Elizabeth Tower tours are not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues due to the 334 steps and lack of lifts. Accessible tours may be available for those with specific needs; contact UK Parliament for details. Assistance dogs are permitted outside but may be restricted during tours.

History and Background

Completed in 1859, Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower were part of the rebuilt Palace of Westminster after a devastating fire in 1834. Designed by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin in the Perpendicular Gothic Revival style, the tower features intricate stone carvings and symbols of the UK’s four nations. The Great Bell, nicknamed Big Ben, possibly after Sir Benjamin Hall, weighs 13.7 tons and chimes every hour, with smaller bells marking each quarter hour. Renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee, it underwent a major restoration from 2017 to 2023 to preserve its structure and clock mechanism. Fun Fact: The clock’s accuracy is maintained by a unique gravity escapement, ensuring it remains unaffected by external factors like wind or birds.

Nearby Attractions

Big Ben’s central location makes it ideal for exploring nearby landmarks:

• Houses of Parliament (1-minute walk): Tour the historic chambers or attend a debate (UK Parliament).
• Westminster Abbey (5-minute walk): A Gothic masterpiece hosting royal ceremonies (Westminster Abbey).
• London Eye (10-minute walk): A giant Ferris wheel with panoramic city views (London Eye).
• Tate Britain (15-minute walk): Showcases British art from 1500 to today (Tate Britain).
• Buckingham Palace (20-minute walk): The royal residence, famous for the Changing of the Guard (Royal Collection Trust).

Combine your visit with a tour of the Houses of Parliament and a stroll to the London Eye for a full day in Westminster.

Practical Tips

• Book Tours Early: Reserve Elizabeth Tower tour tickets well in advance via the UK Parliament website, as they sell out quickly.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Essential for walking around Westminster or climbing stairs during tours.
• Dress for Weather: Bring a raincoat or umbrella, as London’s weather can be unpredictable.
• Photography: Allowed both outside and during tours, with night shots of the illuminated clock faces being particularly stunning.
• Travel Light: No storage facilities are available for tours, so avoid large bags.
• Check Tour Availability: Confirm tour schedules and any closures due to maintenance on the UK Parliament website.
• Respect the Area: The Palace of Westminster is a working government building, so maintain decorum and follow security guidelines.
• Plan for Crowds: Arrive early or late to avoid peak tourist crowds, especially in summer.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of Big Ben?

Big Ben is visible 24/7 from outside. Elizabeth Tower tours, when available, typically run from 9:15 AM to 4:45 PM, Monday to Friday. Check the UK Parliament website for current schedules.

How much does it cost to visit Big Ben?

External viewing is free. Tours inside the Elizabeth Tower cost around £25 for adults, with free entry for children aged 11-17 (under 11s not permitted).

Is Big Ben suitable for children?

External viewing is suitable for all ages. Tours are recommended for ages 11+ due to the 334-step climb and high noise levels.

Are there any discounts available for Big Ben?

No discounts apply for external viewing, as it’s free. Tour concessions may be available for UK residents; check the UK Parliament website.

How long does it take to visit Big Ben?

External viewing takes 15-30 minutes, while tours last about 90 minutes, including the climb and historical commentary.

Is photography allowed at Big Ben?

Yes, photography is permitted both outside and during tours, capturing the tower’s iconic silhouette.

Are there guided tours available at Big Ben?

Yes, guided tours of the Elizabeth Tower are offered when not under renovation, bookable via the UK Parliament website.

What’s the best way to get to Big Ben from the city center?

Take the Tube to Westminster station (Circle, District, or Jubilee lines), a 5-minute walk away, for the quickest route.

Is Big Ben wheelchair accessible?

The exterior is accessible, but tours are not due to the 334-step climb. Accessible tour options may be available; contact UK Parliament.

Are there dining options near Big Ben?

Numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs are available along the Thames and in Westminster, including options in Parliament Square and nearby South Bank.