Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower: London's Iconic Timekeeper

Discover the iconic Elizabeth Tower and its legendary Great Bell, Big Ben, symbols of London’s history and architectural splendor.

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Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell housed within the Elizabeth Tower, a striking 96-meter Gothic Revival clock tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. Completed in 1859 and renamed in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee, the tower features four massive clock faces and a deep resonant chime that marks the hour. It stands as a symbol of British history, culture, and architectural grandeur.

A brief summary to Big Ben

London, SW1A 0AA, GB
+442072194272
Visit website
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

Visit during daylight to fully appreciate the intricate Gothic Revival details and watch the clock faces glow at dusk.
Listen carefully to the hourly chimes of Big Ben, a sound that has marked London’s hours for over 160 years.
UK residents can book a tour inside the Elizabeth Tower through their Member of Parliament, but be prepared for a steep climb.
Check for any restoration or maintenance closures before planning your visit, as these can limit access to the tower.

Getting There

London Underground

Take the Jubilee Line to Westminster station, located about 300 meters from the Elizabeth Tower. The journey from central London typically takes 10–20 minutes. The station is wheelchair accessible, but can be crowded during peak hours. A standard single fare costs approximately £2.80 with contactless payment.
Bus

Several London bus routes stop near Parliament Square, including routes 11, 24, and 148. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Buses accept contactless payment and Oyster cards. Note that buses can be affected by roadworks or congestion, especially during rush hours.
River Taxi

For a scenic approach, take a Thames river taxi to Westminster Pier, a short 5-minute walk from the tower. River taxi rides from central piers take 20–30 minutes and cost around £8–£12. Services operate regularly during the day but may be limited in the evening or winter months.

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Discover more about Big Ben

The Tower’s Historical Roots and Renaming

The Elizabeth Tower, originally known simply as the Clock Tower, was completed in 1859 as part of the reconstruction of the Palace of Westminster after a devastating fire in 1834. Designed by Augustus Pugin in the Gothic Revival style, the tower rises approximately 96 meters (316 feet) and is adorned with intricate stone carvings reflecting symbols of the United Kingdom and the Tudor dynasty. In 2012, the tower was officially renamed Elizabeth Tower to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee, linking it symbolically to the Victoria Tower at the palace’s southern end.

Architectural Grandeur and Clock Features

The tower’s four clock faces are each nearly 15 meters wide, composed of 324 individual pieces of opal glass held within cast iron frames. The minute hands stretch 14 feet long, comparable in size to a fully grown giraffe, while the hour hands reach nearly 9 feet. The clock mechanism has kept remarkably accurate time for over 160 years, making it one of the world’s most reliable public clocks. Atop the tower, the Ayrton Light shines whenever Parliament is in session, a unique feature symbolizing the seat of British democracy.

The Great Bell Known as Big Ben

Big Ben is the popular name for the Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower, weighing over 13 tons. It is the largest of five bells housed within the tower and is famous for its deep, resonant chimes that mark each hour. Contrary to popular belief, the bells do not swing; instead, they are struck by hammers from the outside. The bell’s nickname is believed to derive from Sir Benjamin Hall, the Commissioner of Works at the time of its installation, known for his imposing stature and booming voice.

Survival Through History and Cultural Significance

Throughout its existence, the Elizabeth Tower and Big Ben have endured significant historical events, including the bombings of World War II, during which the tower sustained minimal damage and the bell continued to chime. The tower stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and British heritage, often featured alongside landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. Its iconic silhouette and sound are instantly recognizable worldwide, representing London’s identity.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Visitors can appreciate the tower’s exterior grandeur and hear the famous chimes, though access to the interior is limited. UK residents may arrange tours through their Member of Parliament, involving a challenging climb of nearly 400 steps to reach the clock mechanism and bell chamber. Restoration works have occasionally restricted access, but the tower’s presence remains a must-see for travelers seeking to connect with London’s history and culture.

Symbolism and Legacy in Modern Times

The Elizabeth Tower continues to be a focal point for national celebrations and broadcasts, its hourly chimes marking moments of significance. It embodies the blend of architectural mastery, historical depth, and cultural symbolism that defines London. Whether admired for its design, heard through its resonant bells, or contemplated as a monument to British democracy, the tower and Big Ben remain enduring icons of the city’s heritage.