Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower

Experience the iconic chimes and Gothic grandeur of London’s most famous clock tower, a symbol of resilience and tradition.

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Standing proudly at the north end of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. The tower, officially renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012, houses the Great Bell known as Big Ben, which chimes every hour. The clock faces, made of hundreds of pieces of glass, are illuminated at night, and the tower’s Gothic Revival architecture is a masterpiece of Victorian design. Visitors can admire the tower from the riverside or explore its inner workings after a major restoration completed in 2022.

A brief summary to Big Ben

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

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy the best photo opportunities.
Book tickets for the tower tour well in advance, as access is limited and popular.
Look for the Ayrton Light above the clock faces to see when Parliament is in session.
Take a walk along the River Thames for panoramic views of the tower and the surrounding landmarks.
Listen for the chimes of Big Ben, which mark the hours and are a distinctive sound of London.

Getting There

Tube

Take the Jubilee, District, or Circle line to Westminster station, which is directly across the road from the tower. The walk from the station to the tower takes about 2 minutes and is fully accessible.
Bus

Several London bus routes stop near the tower, including the 3, 11, 12, 24, 53, 87, 88, 148, 159, 185, 211, 453, and C10. The journey from central London typically takes 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic.
River Bus

Westminster Pier is located next to the tower and is served by river bus services. The trip from other central London piers takes about 20–30 minutes, offering scenic views of the Thames.
Walking

From Trafalgar Square, walk south along Whitehall and then turn left onto Parliament Street. The walk takes about 15 minutes and is mostly flat, with accessible paths.

Big Ben location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Big Ben

The Tower’s Name and Legacy

Big Ben is a name known worldwide, but it actually refers to the Great Bell inside the tower, not the structure itself. The tower was originally called the Clock Tower, but in 2012 it was renamed Elizabeth Tower to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. Despite the official change, most people still refer to the entire structure as Big Ben. The tower’s history is deeply tied to the Palace of Westminster, which was rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1834. The tower’s design, by Augustus Pugin and Sir Charles Barry, is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture, adorned with stone carvings and symbols representing the United Kingdom.

Engineering Marvels and Design Details

Elizabeth Tower stands at an impressive 96 meters tall, making it one of the tallest clock towers in Britain. Each of its four clock faces is made up of 324 pieces of pot opal glass, held together by a cast iron frame. The minute hands are 14 feet long, and the hour hands are nearly 9 feet, giving the clock a grand presence visible from afar. The bell itself weighs over 13 tons and produces a distinctive E-natural note. The clock’s timekeeping is regulated by a stack of coins placed on its pendulum, a quirky detail that adds to its charm.

Historical Significance and Resilience

Big Ben has witnessed many historic events, including the destruction of the Commons Chamber during World War II, yet the tower and its bell continued to chime throughout. The tower’s survival and continued operation have made it a symbol of resilience. The Latin inscription beneath the clock face, “DOMINE SALVAM FAC REGINAM NOSTRAM VICTORIAM PRIMAM,” pays tribute to Queen Victoria, under whose reign the palace was rebuilt. The tower’s Ayrton Light, which illuminates when Parliament is in session, is another unique feature that connects the landmark to the workings of British democracy.

Visitor Experience and Restoration

After a five-year restoration project completed in 2022, the Elizabeth Tower was restored to its original Victorian style, with the clock faces returned to their original Prussian blue color. The restoration also included energy-efficient LED lighting and the replacement of damaged stonework. Visitors can now climb the tower’s 399 steps to see the inner workings of the clock and the Great Bell, though access is limited and requires advance booking. The tower’s location next to the River Thames offers stunning views, and the surrounding area is a hub of activity, with Westminster Bridge and the Houses of Parliament nearby.

Cultural Impact and Global Recognition

Big Ben’s chimes have been broadcast by the BBC since 1923, marking the start of the New Year and other significant events. The tower’s image is synonymous with London and British culture, appearing in countless films, photographs, and artworks. Its enduring popularity and historical significance make it a must-see destination for visitors to the city, offering a blend of architectural beauty, engineering ingenuity, and cultural heritage.