Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament

What to expect

Big Ben is strictly the name of the great bell, but almost everyone uses it for the clock tower, renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012. It stands at the end of the Houses of Parliament, which Charles Barry designed in Gothic Revival style after fire destroyed the old palace in 1834. Augustus Pugin drew the tower, and it was finished in 1859. It rises 96 m, and the clock dials are among the biggest in Britain.

Most visitors see it from outside, and it is a free, open-air stop. The classic view is from Westminster Bridge, with the tower against the river and the long riverside facade of Parliament beside it. Walk the pavement along the front for the detail in the stonework and heraldic shields. Tours and debates inside are arranged separately through Parliament, so the outside view is the quick option.

Don't miss

• The great clock dials
• The Gothic facade of the Houses of Parliament
• The Ayrton Light above the belfry
• View from Westminster Bridge
• Heraldic shields on the tower

Tips for your visit

• Cross Westminster Bridge and look back for the best photo, away from the crowds at the tower's foot.
• The bell chimes the hour and the quarters, so time your visit for a few minutes before the hour.
• Combine it with Westminster Abbey and Churchill War Rooms, both a few minutes on foot.
• If you want to go inside, check the Parliament visiting page well ahead for tour options.