The Majestic Palace of Westminster: Heart of British Politics
Discover the grandeur of the Palace of Westminster, where history, architecture, and politics converge in the heart of London.
The Palace of Westminster, an iconic symbol of London, is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in British history and politics. This stunning Gothic-style building, set along the River Thames, is not just the home of the UK Parliament but also a remarkable architectural marvel that draws visitors from around the world. Explore its rich heritage, join guided tours, and marvel at the intricate details of its design, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of London.
A brief summary to Palace of Westminster
- London, SW1A 0AA, GB
- +442072193000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your guided tour in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist season.
- Check for any special events or debates taking place during your visit for a unique experience.
- Visit the nearby Westminster Bridge for stunning views of the Palace, especially at sunset.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tours involve a fair amount of walking through the historic site.
- Don't forget to explore the surrounding areas, including the beautiful gardens and nearby attractions.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from Down, start by getting onto the A3 road. Follow the A3 southbound and continue until you reach the M25. Merge onto the M25 and follow the signs for London. Once you are on the M25, take junction 15 to merge onto the M4 towards London. After approximately 10 miles, take the exit towards Central London. Follow the signs for the A3211 towards Westminster. You will arrive at the Palace of Westminster (London SW1A 0AA) which is located on the banks of the River Thames. There may be parking restrictions in this area, so be prepared to use a nearby parking garage or public parking facility, which may incur additional costs.
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Public Transport
To reach the Palace of Westminster using public transport, you can start at the Down train station. Take a train towards London, typically heading to London Bridge or Waterloo. Once you arrive at London Waterloo station, you can switch to the London Underground. Take the Jubilee line towards Stanmore and get off at Westminster station. From Westminster station, follow the signs for the exit towards Parliament Square. The Palace of Westminster is just a short walk from the station, easily visible as you approach Parliament Square. You will need to check train schedules for the appropriate departure times, and there may be costs for train and tube tickets, so be prepared with an Oyster card or contactless payment option for convenience.
Discover more about Palace of Westminster
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Westminster Hall
0.1 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Statue of George V
0.1 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.2 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
King Charles Street
0.3 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
King Charles Street Arch
0.3 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
The Cenotaph
0.4 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
South Bank Lion
0.4 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
His Majesty's Treasury
0.4 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
Chindit Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Clive of India Memorial
0.4 km
A towering Edwardian statue in London commemorating Robert Clive, founder of British rule in India, embodying imperial triumph and controversy.
Clive Steps
0.4 km
A Grade II-listed bronze statue commemorating the controversial architect of British imperial power in India.
The Women of World War II
0.5 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
10 Downing Street
0.5 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
10 Downing St
0.5 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
Unmissable attractions to see
Royal Court
0.1 km
London’s Royal Court Theatre: A historic beacon for groundbreaking new plays and emerging playwrights in the heart of Sloane Square.
St Margaret's Church
0.1 km
Explore the serene St Margaret's Church, a historic Anglican church in London, next to Westminster Abbey, rich in history and stunning architecture.
Big Ben
0.1 km
Explore Big Ben, London's iconic clock tower, a cultural landmark and symbol of British history, attracting millions of tourists each year.
Jewel Tower
0.2 km
Discover the Jewel Tower, a medieval fortress guarding royal treasures and parliamentary history opposite London’s iconic Houses of Parliament.
Bridge St
0.2 km
Historic Bridge Street in London offers riverside views, rich heritage, and vibrant urban life beside the iconic London Bridge.
Westminster Abbey
0.2 km
Discover the majestic Gothic abbey where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066 and history echoes through every stone.
Parliament Square Garden
0.2 km
A historic green oasis in Westminster, offering iconic views and monuments at the heart of London’s political heritage.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.2 km
Iconic bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, symbolizing British resilience and leadership during World War II.
Boadicea and Her Daughters
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proud on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
Mahatma Gandhi statue
0.2 km
A dignified bronze tribute to Gandhi’s peaceful legacy, standing humbly among world leaders in the heart of London’s historic Parliament Square.
Parliament Sq
0.2 km
Historic London square at the heart of British democracy, adorned with iconic statues and framed by world-famous landmarks.
Westminster Millennium Pier
0.2 km
Experience London's iconic riverfront from Westminster Millennium Pier, your gateway to historic landmarks and scenic Thames cruises.
Westminster Pier
0.2 km
A vibrant river gateway beside iconic London landmarks, Westminster Pier invites you to explore the Thames and historic city sights from the water.
Westminster Bridge
0.2 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning views from Westminster Bridge, an iconic London landmark linking culture and architecture.
The Supreme Court
0.3 km
Explore the UK's highest court in a stunning neo-Gothic building at the heart of London’s political and judicial district.
Essential places to dine
Ma La Sichuan
0.5 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
OKAN South Bank
0.5 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.5 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Sapori
0.5 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
The Pem
0.6 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Troia Southbank
0.6 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.6 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Caxton Grill
0.6 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.7 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.8 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
The Garden
0.8 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.8 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Archduke
0.9 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.1 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.2 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.3 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Browns of London
0.4 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.6 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.7 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
The Giftree London
0.8 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Crest of London Ltd
0.8 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.9 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Gifts of London
0.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
1.1 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Lock & Co. Hatters
1.2 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
Cardinal Place
1.2 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
John Lobb St. James
1.2 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
The Queen's Shop
1.2 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.3 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Westminster Arms
0.4 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Two Chairmen
0.5 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Blue Boar Pub
0.5 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Le Champagne Bar
0.6 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Primo Bar, London
0.6 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.6 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.7 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
The Spy Bar
0.7 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.7 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.7 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.7 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Adam & Eve
0.8 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
Old Shades
0.8 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Tamesis Dock
0.9 km
A vibrant floating bar and live music venue on a historic barge with iconic Thames views between Lambeth and Vauxhall Bridges.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.6 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Cirque Du Soul
0.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.7 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
0.9 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
TSQ Club
1.0 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
The Scotch of St James
1.2 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Proud Late
1.2 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Tiger Tiger London
1.3 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
1.3 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.3 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Café de Paris
1.3 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Penthouse London
1.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Union
1.4 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
1.4 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
