Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower: London's Iconic Timekeeper
Discover the iconic Elizabeth Tower and Big Ben, London's majestic clock tower and bell symbolizing British heritage and timekeeping excellence.
Big Ben is the nickname of the Great Bell housed within the Elizabeth Tower, a striking Gothic Revival clock tower standing 96 meters tall at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. Completed in 1859, the tower features the world's largest four-faced chiming clock. Renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, it remains one of London's most recognized landmarks and a symbol of British heritage.
A brief summary to Big Ben
- London, SW1A 0AA, GB
- +442072194272
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Photograph Big Ben from Westminster Bridge for classic views featuring the tower with red double-decker buses.
- Visit in the evening to see the tower beautifully illuminated, casting a golden glow over the Palace of Westminster.
- Listen for the distinctive chimes of Big Ben marking each hour and the quarter bells every 15 minutes.
- If eligible, book a tour to climb the 399 steps inside Elizabeth Tower for a unique close-up of the clock mechanism and bell.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Westminster Abbey and the London Eye for a full day of sightseeing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Westminster Station, served by the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines. The station is approximately a 5-minute walk from Elizabeth Tower. Trains run frequently, and a single journey fare ranges from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on ticket type and time.
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Bus
Several London bus routes pass near Elizabeth Tower, including routes 11, 24, 148, and 211. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Contactless payment or Oyster cards are accepted, with fares typically around £1.75 per journey.
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River Bus
Use the Thames River Bus services to Westminster Pier, located adjacent to the tower. Travel times from central piers range from 10 to 25 minutes. Tickets cost between £6 and £10. River buses offer a scenic approach but operate seasonally and may have limited evening services.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Central London, walking to Elizabeth Tower is pleasant and accessible. Walking times from Trafalgar Square or Covent Garden are about 20 to 30 minutes along mostly flat, paved routes suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Big Ben location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Big Ben
A Tower Born from Fire and Renewal
The Elizabeth Tower, often mistakenly called Big Ben, was constructed as part of the rebuilding of the Palace of Westminster after a devastating fire in 1834 destroyed much of the original complex. Designed by Augustus Pugin in the Gothic Revival style and completed in 1859, the tower rises 96 meters (316 feet) above Westminster. Its imposing silhouette has become a defining feature of London's skyline, symbolizing resilience and continuity in British history.The Great Bell Known as Big Ben
Big Ben is actually the nickname for the Great Bell inside the tower, not the tower itself. This massive bell weighs approximately 13.76 tonnes and measures 2.29 meters tall by 2.74 meters in diameter. It was cast in 1858 after the first bell cracked irreparably. The bell’s deep resonant chimes mark the hours, while four smaller quarter bells ring every 15 minutes. The bell's name is believed to honor Sir Benjamin Hall, a commissioner known affectionately as "Big Ben."The World's Largest Four-Faced Clock
The Elizabeth Tower houses the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world. Each of the four clock faces measures 7 meters (23 feet) in diameter and is composed of over 300 individual pieces of opal glass, resembling a giant stained-glass window. The minute hands stretch 4.3 meters (14 feet), roughly the height of an adult giraffe, while the hour hands are just under 3 meters (9 feet) long. The clock mechanism is renowned for its accuracy and has rarely stopped since its installation.Symbolism and Cultural Significance
The tower is adorned with intricate stone carvings and symbols representing the four nations of the United Kingdom and the Tudor dynasty. A Latin inscription beneath the clock face honors Queen Victoria. The tower’s official renaming in 2012 to Elizabeth Tower commemorated Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, linking the structure to modern British monarchy traditions. Big Ben’s chimes have been broadcast by the BBC since 1923, becoming an auditory icon worldwide.Preservation and Restoration Efforts
After more than 160 years, the Elizabeth Tower underwent a significant five-year restoration completed in 2022. This work restored the clock faces to their original Victorian design, including repainting the dials in their historic Prussian blue color and installing energy-efficient LED lighting. The restoration also replaced hundreds of damaged masonry stones, ensuring the tower’s structural integrity and aesthetic grandeur for future generations.Experiencing Big Ben Today
Visitors admire Big Ben from various vantage points, including Westminster Bridge and the nearby London Eye, where panoramic views showcase the tower’s grandeur against the Thames. The tower remains a symbol of London’s rich history, parliamentary democracy, and architectural excellence. While the tower is not generally open to the public, UK residents may arrange tours, which involve climbing 399 steps to reach the belfry and the Ayrton Light at the top.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.
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
0.2 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
0.2 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
Statue of George V
0.2 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
The Cenotaph
0.2 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
Chindit Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
The Women of World War II
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
South Bank Lion
0.3 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
His Majesty's Treasury
0.3 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
10 Downing Street
0.4 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
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.
10 Downing St
0.4 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
Clive Steps
0.4 km
A Grade II-listed bronze statue commemorating the controversial architect of British imperial power in India.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bridge St
0.0 km
Historic Bridge Street in London offers riverside views, rich heritage, and vibrant urban life beside the iconic London Bridge.
Boadicea and Her Daughters
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proud on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
Westminster Millennium Pier
0.1 km
Experience London's iconic riverfront from Westminster Millennium Pier, your gateway to historic landmarks and scenic Thames cruises.
Westminster Pier
0.1 km
A vibrant river gateway beside iconic London landmarks, Westminster Pier invites you to explore the Thames and historic city sights from the water.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.1 km
Iconic bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, symbolizing British resilience and leadership during World War II.
Palace of Westminster
0.1 km
Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of the Palace of Westminster, the iconic heart of British democracy in London.
Parliament Square Garden
0.1 km
A historic green oasis in Westminster, offering iconic views and monuments at the heart of London’s political heritage.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
0.1 km
Experience the beauty of London from the water at Westminster Pier, your gateway to unforgettable Thames River adventures.
Parliament Sq
0.2 km
Historic London square at the heart of British democracy, adorned with iconic statues and framed by world-famous landmarks.
St Margaret's Church
0.2 km
Explore the serene St Margaret's Church, a historic Anglican church in London, next to Westminster Abbey, rich in history and stunning architecture.
Westminster Bridge
0.2 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning views from Westminster Bridge, an iconic London landmark linking culture and architecture.
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.
The Supreme Court
0.2 km
Explore the UK's highest court in a stunning neo-Gothic building at the heart of London’s political and judicial district.
Westminster Abbey
0.2 km
Discover the majestic Gothic abbey where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066 and history echoes through every stone.
Royal Court
0.3 km
London’s Royal Court Theatre: A historic beacon for groundbreaking new plays and emerging playwrights in the heart of Sloane Square.
Essential places to dine
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.
Troia Southbank
0.5 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
0.5 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
The Pem
0.6 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Ma La Sichuan
0.6 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.6 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
0.7 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.7 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
The Northall
0.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Caxton Grill
0.7 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Sapori
0.7 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.8 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
The Archduke
0.8 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
wagamama southbank
0.8 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
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
0.1 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
0.3 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
0.5 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
0.6 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Crest of London Ltd
0.7 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
0.7 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
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
The Giftree London
0.9 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
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
1.1 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
John Lobb St. James
1.1 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
1.1 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
1.2 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.2 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.
Le Champagne Bar
0.5 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
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.
Primo Bar, London
0.5 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.
The Spy Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
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
0.6 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 Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.6 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
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.
Old Shades
0.7 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
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.
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.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.8 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.6 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
0.8 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
0.8 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.
Proud Late
1.1 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
1.1 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
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.
Luxe Club
1.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.2 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
1.2 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Penthouse London
1.2 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.3 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
1.4 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Cuckoo Club
1.4 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Historic
- Iconic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Gothic Revival
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
