Best Attractions Near Big Ben
Planning a trip to Big Ben? Discover the best attractions nearby with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions near Big Ben
- Top rated
- Closest to Big Ben
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- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
40 attractions
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Ferris wheel4.5★177,119 reviews
lastminute.com London Eye
The London Eye, standing 135 metres tall on the South Bank of the River Thames, offers breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline. This giant cantilevered observation wheel, built to celebrate the millennium, provides a slow 30-minute rotation in glass pods, perfect for spotting landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and St Paul’s Cathedral. Open daily except Christmas Day and January maintenance, it features special festive experiences and fast-track entry options.
Daily 10:00–20:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Cultural landmark4.5★63,620 reviews
Big Ben
Big Ben, officially known as the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, is a must-see for every tourist visiting London. This iconic landmark, renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history, draws millions of visitors each year, standing as a symbol of British culture and resilience. Its striking clock tower, which has become synonymous with the city itself, offers a picturesque view, especially when illuminated at night. Don't miss the chance to capture this remarkable sight during your visit.
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Anglican church4.6★40,916 reviews
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is London’s most layered sacred landmark: a working Anglican church, coronation site, royal burial place and dense archive of national memory. Inside, the pace is slow and stop-start as you move from the nave to chapels, cloisters and memorials, reading names that span centuries. It feels formal, enclosed and deeply historic, with little of the bustle outside.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Aquarium4.3★26,192 reviews
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Located in the Riverside Building at County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road, SEA LIFE London Aquarium is the capital’s premier marine attraction. Home to over 500 species and 2 million liters of water, it offers 14 immersive zones including the Ocean Tunnel, Coral Kingdom, and Penguin Point. Visitors can explore diverse marine life from sharks and turtles to jellyfish and tropical fish, alongside educational talks and feeding sessions. Open daily with accessible facilities, it’s a captivating experience for all ages.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Haunted house4.3★18,415 reviews
The London Dungeon
The London Dungeon offers a 90-minute immersive experience that brings over 1,000 years of London's macabre past to life through 16 live shows, two thrilling rides, and interactive storytelling. Located in the Riverside Building at County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road, this attraction blends live actors, special effects, and theatrical sets to recreate infamous moments and characters such as Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, and Sweeney Todd. Visitors navigate through plague-ridden streets, medieval gates, and the chilling torture chambers, ending their visit with a themed Victorian tavern experience.
Mon–Fri 11:00–16:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–2 hrs
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History museum4.6★12,889 reviews
Churchill War Rooms
The Churchill War Rooms, located beneath London’s Whitehall, offer a unique window into the British government’s secret command centre during World War II. Preserved almost exactly as they were when Winston Churchill and his Cabinet directed the war effort, the site includes the Cabinet War Rooms and the Churchill Museum, showcasing wartime history and Churchill’s life. Open daily from 9:30 am to 6 pm, this immersive museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those intrigued by WWII.
Daily 9:30–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
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Bridge4.6★10,295 reviews
Westminster Bridge
Westminster Bridge is not just a bridge; it's a historical landmark that connects the heart of London with stunning views of iconic attractions like the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Tourists can enjoy leisurely walks, take in the vibrant atmosphere, and capture memorable photographs of one of London's most famous structures.
Open 24 hours
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Tourist attraction4.1★6,129 reviews
Shrek's Adventure London
Shrek's Adventure! London is an immersive, interactive walkthrough attraction located on the South Bank of the River Thames. This family-friendly experience brings the beloved characters of DreamWorks' Shrek to life through live shows, a 4D flying bus ride, and themed environments. Ideal for children aged 6 to 12, it offers a fun-filled adventure with fairy tale magic, located near iconic London landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Government office4.6★4,319 reviews
Palace of Westminster
The Palace of Westminster is an iconic symbol of London, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich political history. As the meeting place of the UK Parliament, it offers tourists a glimpse into the heart of British democracy. Visitors can explore the grand halls and learn about the history of governance in the UK, making it a must-see for anyone interested in politics or history.
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Park and Garden4.6★3,601 reviews
Victoria Tower Gardens South
Victoria Tower Gardens South is a small, flat riverside park in Westminster with direct views of the Palace of Westminster, the Thames, and nearby memorials. It is less a destination than a calm interlude: a place to sit on a bench, cross the lawns, or pause between Parliament Square and the river. The setting is formal, reflective, and surprisingly quiet for central London.
Daily 7:00–18:00Time to spend 0.3–2 hrs
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Museum4.5★2,878 reviews
The Household Cavalry Museum
Located at 66 Horse Guards Avenue in Whitehall, London, the Household Cavalry Museum offers a unique glimpse into the history and traditions of the British Army’s senior regiments, the Life Guards and the Blues and Royals. Housed in magnificent mid-18th-century vaulted stables, the museum showcases dazzling uniforms, weaponry, and regimental artifacts alongside live views of cavalry troopers tending to their horses. Open daily from 10am to 5pm (November to March), it is a must-visit for military history enthusiasts and those fascinated by British ceremonial pageantry.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–1.5 hrs
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Conference Centre4.6★2,732 reviews
Central Hall Westminster
Central Hall Westminster is a Grade II* listed building located in the heart of London, renowned for its striking architecture and historic significance. Established in 1912 as a Methodist meeting place, it now serves as one of central London’s largest conference and event venues, hosting over 800 diverse events annually. The venue features Europe’s largest self-supporting domed ceiling, an ornate grand staircase inspired by the Paris Opera House, and a magnificent Great Hall with a capacity exceeding 2,000 guests.
Daily 8:00–18:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Park and Garden4.7★1,855 reviews
Whitehall Gardens
Whitehall Gardens is a compact formal garden on Victoria Embankment, set between Westminster’s government quarter and the Thames. It is less a destination than a polished pause: clipped planting, benches, seasonal flowers, and open river air in a tightly urban setting. Visitors come for a short walk, a sit-down, or a photo stop while moving between nearby landmarks.
Time to spend 0.2–2 hrs
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Event ticket seller4.4★1,580 reviews
London Eye Ticket Office
The London Eye, a towering symbol of the city, offers breathtaking panoramic views of London. Located on the South Bank of the River Thames, this iconic Ferris wheel invites tourists to embark on a memorable journey high above the cityscape. Each capsule provides a unique perspective of famous landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the River Thames itself. With its impressive height of 135 meters, the London Eye is a must-visit attraction for anyone seeking to soak in the beauty and vibrancy of London.
Daily 11:00–18:00
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Tourist attraction4.5★1,513 reviews
Westminster Millennium Pier
Nestled on the north bank of the River Thames beside Westminster Bridge, Westminster Millennium Pier offers visitors a vibrant hub for river cruises and sightseeing in the heart of London. Adjacent to landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, this pier serves as a key embarkation point for leisure cruises, commuter boats, and private charters, blending historical significance with modern transport and stunning river views.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
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Historical landmark4.4★1,402 reviews
Banqueting House
Banqueting House is the last complete survivor of the old Palace of Whitehall, a compact but imposing royal landmark in central London. Visitors come for the vast Banqueting Hall, where Rubens’s ceiling still hangs in place above a formal, echoing interior. The visit is brief, art-led, and steeped in Stuart history, from court spectacle to Charles I’s execution outside.
Price level $Time to spend 0.8–2 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.3★1,238 reviews
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
Westminster Pier is a vibrant river pier on the north bank of the Thames in central London, adjacent to Westminster Bridge and the iconic Houses of Parliament. It serves as a major embarkation point for City Cruises and other riverboat services, offering visitors stunning views of landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge. Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, the pier combines convenient access with a lively atmosphere, making it a perfect gateway for sightseeing tours and private boat charters.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Museum4.4★982 reviews
Florence Nightingale Museum
Compact and focused, the Florence Nightingale Museum traces one woman’s influence on modern nursing through objects, displays and careful interpretation. Set within St Thomas’ Hospital on Lambeth Palace Road, it feels more like a specialist heritage stop than a broad museum visit. Expect a calm, indoor experience shaped by Victorian medical history, Crimean War context and public-health reform.
Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 0.8–2 hrs
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Park and Garden4.7★899 reviews
Dean's Yard
Dean's Yard is the enclosed green forecourt and precinct beside Westminster Abbey, more a historic church courtyard than a public park. Stone walls, clipped grass and Abbey buildings give it a formal, collegiate feel in the middle of Westminster. Most visitors pass through on the way to the Abbey, but it rewards a slower look for its calm, ordered atmosphere and strong royal-historical associations.
Mon–Fri 8:00–17:00 · Sat 8:00–14:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.2–3 hrs
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Arts Organisation4.5★830 reviews
Sinfonia Smith Square
Sinfonia Smith Square, located in the heart of Westminster, London, is a Grade I listed Baroque masterpiece originally built as St John's Smith Square church in the early 18th century. After surviving fires and wartime bombing, it was restored and transformed into one of London’s finest concert halls, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and rich classical music programming. The venue hosts world-class performances and nurtures emerging musical talent in a historic and atmospheric setting.
Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Historical place museum4.0★536 reviews
Jewel Tower
The Jewel Tower is a rare surviving fragment of the 14th-century Palace of Westminster, built c.1365 to safeguard King Edward III’s royal treasures. Located on Abingdon Street, London, this moated medieval tower features exquisite stone vaulting, historical exhibitions across three floors, and remnants of its original defensive moat. Managed by English Heritage, it offers visitors a glimpse into England’s royal and parliamentary history through carefully preserved architecture and engaging displays.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Garden4.6★461 reviews
Parliament Square Garden
Parliament Square Garden is a compact civic green at the centre of Westminster, framed by the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey. It is less a park for lingering than a place to cross, pause and read the city’s political stage. Statues, paved paths, benches and constant traffic give it a formal, exposed feel that suits short visits between major sights.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.2–2 hrs
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Anglican church4.4★341 reviews
St Margaret's Church
Nestled next to the iconic Westminster Abbey, St Margaret's Church is a serene Anglican church that offers tourists a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of London. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful stained glass windows, it is a must-visit for anyone exploring the area. The church serves as a reminder of London's religious heritage and provides a captivating experience for visitors seeking tranquility amidst their travels.
Mon–Fri 10:30–15:30 · Sat 10:30–15:00
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Comedy club4.5★323 reviews
The Boat Show Comedy Club
Nestled within the unique setting of Tattershall Castle on Victoria Embankment, The Boat Show Comedy Club offers visitors an unforgettable night filled with laughter. With an inviting atmosphere, a vibrant bar, and a lineup of talented comedians, it’s the perfect spot for tourists seeking a fun and unique experience in London.
Daily 16:00–4:00
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Sculpture4.5★222 reviews
Boadicea and Her Daughters
This bronze monument to Boudica and her daughters stands on the Victoria Embankment beside Westminster Bridge, where river views, traffic, and Parliament create a distinctly London backdrop. It is a quick stop rather than a long visit: most people pause for photos, read the figure’s symbolism, and move on along the Thames. The scale is striking, the setting is exposed, and the atmosphere is firmly civic and urban.
Daily 6:00–22:00Time to spend 0.2–2 hrs
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Government office4.1★223 reviews
The Supreme Court
Set on Parliament Square, the UK Supreme Court is a compact but significant stop for travellers interested in law, politics, and civic architecture. Housed in the former Middlesex Guildhall, it combines a working courtroom with visitor exhibitions, guided access, and a formal, hushed atmosphere. Most visits are short, but the building rewards close attention.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
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Toy Shop4.5★184 reviews
Build-A-Bear Workshop - Westminster Bridge
Set inside County Hall beside Westminster Bridge, this Build-A-Bear branch is less a souvenir stop than a short, interactive indoor activity. Visitors choose a plush animal, add stuffing and the trademark heart ceremony, then dress it with clothes and accessories. The setting is central and practical rather than scenic, but it works well as a family break between the South Bank, the London Eye and Westminster sights.
Mon–Fri 10:00–18:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–19:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.2–2 hrs
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Sculpture4.7★164 reviews
The Battle of Britain Monument
Set on Victoria Embankment near Westminster Bridge, this open-air memorial pairs bronze reliefs, named plaques and wartime symbolism with a busy Thames-side setting. It is a brief but affecting stop: part sculpture, part remembrance site, best visited slowly enough to read the inscriptions and study the scenes at street level.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.2–1 hr
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Sculpture4.7★155 reviews
Mahatma Gandhi statue
The Mahatma Gandhi statue in London’s Parliament Square is a 2.7-meter bronze sculpture by Philip Jackson, unveiled in 2015. It commemorates Gandhi’s legacy as a leader of non-violent resistance who played a pivotal role in India’s independence. Situated among statues of global statesmen, the statue’s lower plinth reflects Gandhi’s humility and accessibility. It stands near iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the UK and India.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.7★79 reviews
The Queen’s Walk
The Queen’s Walk is a flat riverside promenade on London’s South Bank, running past the London Eye, Jubilee Gardens and Thames viewpoints. It is less a single attraction than a scenic walking corridor, used for short strolls, photos, people-watching and moving between major landmarks. Expect constant foot traffic, open river views and a lively urban edge rather than quiet seclusion.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–4 hrs
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Ferry Terminal4.4★51 reviews
Westminster Pier
Westminster Pier, located on the River Thames in central London, serves as a bustling ferry terminal and popular departure point for river sightseeing tours. Situated adjacent to the Houses of Parliament and near landmarks like Westminster Abbey and the London Eye, the pier offers stunning views and easy access to major attractions. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises that showcase London's historic skyline, making it an essential spot for exploring the city's riverside heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
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4.7★46 reviews
The Queen's Walk
The Queen's Walk in London offers a picturesque promenade along the River Thames, perfect for leisurely strolls, stunning views, and rich history. Experience the essence of London with its vibrant atmosphere and cultural landmarks.
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Training centre3.7★30 reviews
Crime Museum
At New Scotland Yard on Victoria Embankment, this is less a walk-in museum than a tightly controlled window into British policing history. The Crime Museum itself is not generally open to the public; access is usually through booked visits, exhibitions, or research appointments. Expect a formal, quiet setting, case material, and a strong institutional feel rather than a conventional gallery experience.
Price level $Time to spend 0.8–3 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.8★4 reviews
Memorial wall
The National Covid Memorial Wall in London is a poignant public tribute stretching over 500 metres along the South Bank of the River Thames. Comprising more than 240,000 hand-painted red hearts, each heart represents a life lost to COVID-19 in the UK. The wall faces the Houses of Parliament and serves as a powerful reminder of the pandemic's profound human cost, maintained by dedicated volunteers known as The Friends of the Wall.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Sculpture5.0★1 review
South of the River
Becket House is a prominent office building located just south of Westminster Bridge, opposite the Houses of Parliament in London. This substantial commercial property offers fully fitted office spaces with modern amenities, excellent natural light, and far-reaching views. It is conveniently situated within a short walk of major transport hubs including Waterloo, Westminster, and Lambeth North stations, making it a prime business location in the South Bank area.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–8 hrs
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Historical landmark1.0★1 review
Royal Court
Located in Sloane Square, London, the Royal Court Theatre is a historic and influential venue renowned for championing new and innovative playwrights. Established in the late 19th century and revitalized in the 1950s, it remains a cornerstone of British theatre, featuring two auditoriums and a vibrant program of cutting-edge productions that have shaped modern drama.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
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Bridge St
Bridge Street in London is a historic thoroughfare adjacent to London Bridge, linking the City of London with Southwark. It features a vibrant mix of historic and modern architecture, scenic views of the River Thames, and a lively urban atmosphere. This street serves as a key route steeped in centuries of cultural and commercial significance, surrounded by notable landmarks and offering excellent transport connectivity.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Parliament Sq
Parliament Square is an open public square in Westminster, set between the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey and the Supreme Court. It is less a place to linger than a place to read London’s political geography at street level: statues, memorials, traffic, security and constant pedestrian movement. Most visits are brief, but the views are concentrated and unmistakably central London.
Time to spend 0.2–3 hrs
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The Sanctuary
The Sanctuary is a small but significant forecourt beside Westminster Abbey, where the city’s ceremonial, religious, and political worlds meet. It is less a destination than a pause point: a place to frame the Abbey’s west front, wait for entry, and take in the dense historic setting around Parliament Square. Expect constant movement by day, brief stops, and strong photo opportunities rather than on-site activities.
Time to spend 0.2–2 hrs
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The London Eye Millennium Pier
Situated on the South Bank of the River Thames in Central London, The London Eye Millennium Pier offers direct river access beside the iconic London Eye ferris wheel. Opened in 2000 as part of the Thames 2000 project, it serves commuter and leisure riverboat services, connecting visitors to major attractions like the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. The pier features accessible facilities and is a gateway to vibrant South Bank cultural experiences.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
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