Big Ben

Claim to Fame

Big Ben is London’s most iconic clock tower, a symbol of British tradition and one of the most photographed landmarks in the world.

📌 Navigating Big Ben : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Public washrooms are available in the nearby Parliament Square area.
Hours of Operation: Big Ben can be viewed at any time, but the Houses of Parliament have specific hours for tours.
Important Information: Big Ben is currently undergoing renovations, which may affect visibility and photography opportunities.
Admission Fee: There is no admission fee to view Big Ben from the outside, but tours of the Houses of Parliament may require a fee.
How Long to Visit: A visit to Big Ben typically takes about 30 minutes, depending on your interest in the surrounding area.
Admission Fee: There is no admission fee to view Big Ben from the outside, but tours of the Houses of Parliament may require a fee.
How Long to Visit: A visit to Big Ben typically takes about 30 minutes, depending on your interest in the surrounding area.
Washrooms: Public washrooms are available in the nearby Parliament Square area.
Hours of Operation: Big Ben can be viewed at any time, but the Houses of Parliament have specific hours for tours.
Important Information: Big Ben is currently undergoing renovations, which may affect visibility and photography opportunities.
Parking: There is no dedicated parking near Big Ben, but nearby public parking options are available in Westminster.
Family Friendly: Big Ben is family-friendly, with plenty of space for children to explore the surrounding Parliament Square.
Photography: Photography is allowed outside Big Ben, but be mindful of the traffic and crowds.
WIFI: Free public Wi-Fi is not available at Big Ben, but nearby cafes and public spaces may offer connectivity.
Picnic Area: There is no designated picnic area at Big Ben, but Parliament Square offers space for casual seating.
Handicap Accessible: Big Ben itself is not wheelchair accessible, but the surrounding areas and some viewing points accommodate accessibility needs.
Pets: Pets are not allowed in the immediate vicinity of Big Ben, but service animals are permitted.
Guided Tours: Guided tours of the Houses of Parliament provide insights into Big Ben's history and architecture.
Restaurant or Cafe: There are no restaurants or cafes directly at Big Ben, but numerous dining options are available within walking distance.
Gift Shop: There is no gift shop at Big Ben, but souvenirs can be found at nearby shops and in the Houses of Parliament.
Handicap Accessible: Big Ben itself is not wheelchair accessible, but the surrounding areas and some viewing points accommodate accessibility needs.
Pets: Pets are not allowed in the immediate vicinity of Big Ben, but service animals are permitted.
Guided Tours: Guided tours of the Houses of Parliament provide insights into Big Ben's history and architecture.
Restaurant or Cafe: There are no restaurants or cafes directly at Big Ben, but numerous dining options are available within walking distance.
Gift Shop: There is no gift shop at Big Ben, but souvenirs can be found at nearby shops and in the Houses of Parliament.
Parking: There is no dedicated parking near Big Ben, but nearby public parking options are available in Westminster.
Family Friendly: Big Ben is family-friendly, with plenty of space for children to explore the surrounding Parliament Square.
Photography: Photography is allowed outside Big Ben, but be mindful of the traffic and crowds.
WIFI: Free public Wi-Fi is not available at Big Ben, but nearby cafes and public spaces may offer connectivity.
Picnic Area: There is no designated picnic area at Big Ben, but Parliament Square offers space for casual seating.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Big Ben

Often mistakenly referred to as the tower itself, Big Ben is actually the nickname for the massive bell inside the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. Its chimes have echoed across London since 1859, marking time with unmatched precision and becoming a powerful emblem of British identity.

What to Expect

Visitors to Big Ben can admire the striking neo-Gothic architecture of the Elizabeth Tower and listen for the quarter-hour chimes, with the deep, resonant bell of Big Ben sounding on the hour. While the tower itself is not open to overseas visitors, the exterior view from Parliament Square is a must-see and an ideal photo spot, especially at dusk when the tower is beautifully illuminated.

Background and Cultural Context

The tower was completed in 1859 following the rebuilding of the Palace of Westminster after a devastating fire. The bell, cast in Whitechapel, weighs over 13 tons. Its accuracy and resonance have made it a national timekeeper. Big Ben has witnessed major historical events, wartime resilience, and New Year’s Eve celebrations, making it a beloved symbol of continuity and stability in the UK.

Best Time to Visit

Big Ben looks impressive at any time, but for fewer crowds, visit early in the morning or late evening. Nighttime views are especially dramatic with the clock faces lit against the skyline. If you're visiting in spring or summer, the longer daylight hours allow for better photo opportunities.

How to Get There

Big Ben is located in Westminster, central London. The nearest Tube station is Westminster (Jubilee, Circle, and District Lines), directly across the street from the tower. It's within walking distance of other key landmarks such as the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, and St. James’s Park.

Photo Opportunities

Classic head-on view from Westminster Bridge
Side-angle shot with red double-decker buses in frame
Close-ups of the ornate clock face and stonework
Golden-hour or nighttime lighting shots

Travel Tips

Be aware that the area can get very busy — visit early or later in the day for better views.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Houses of Parliament or Westminster Abbey.
Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.
Bring a wide-angle lens if you’re photographing up close.

FAQs

Can I go inside Big Ben?
Only UK residents can apply for a tour through their Member of Parliament. It is not currently open to international tourists.

How often does Big Ben chime?
The quarter bells chime every 15 minutes, with Big Ben (the hour bell) striking on the hour.

Why is it called Big Ben?
The origin is debated, but it’s widely believed to be named after Sir Benjamin Hall, the Commissioner of Works at the time the bell was installed.

Final Thoughts

A visit to Big Ben is a step into London’s historic and cultural heart. Its presence towers above the Thames as a timeless witness to British history, government, and pride. Whether you’re passing by or pausing for a photo, Big Ben is a landmark that defines London.

Things To Do near Big Ben

London Eye

The Distance from Big Ben to London Eye is 0.6 Kilometer(s) / 0.4 Mile(s)

Churchill War Rooms

The Distance from Big Ben to Churchill War Rooms is 0.6 Kilometer(s) / 0.4 Mile(s)

West End Theatre District

The Distance from Big Ben to West End Theatre District is 1.1 Kilometer(s) / 0.7 Mile(s)

Buckingham Palace

The Distance from Big Ben to Buckingham Palace is 1.9 Kilometer(s) / 1.2 Mile(s)

Tate Modern

The Distance from Big Ben to Tate Modern is 3.1 Kilometer(s) / 1.9 Mile(s)

British Museum

The Distance from Big Ben to British Museum is 3.4 Kilometer(s) / 2.1 Mile(s)

Hyde Park

The Distance from Big Ben to Hyde Park is 4.3 Kilometer(s) / 2.7 Mile(s)

Harrods

The Distance from Big Ben to Harrods is 4.3 Kilometer(s) / 2.7 Mile(s)

Tower of London

The Distance from Big Ben to Tower of London is 5.6 Kilometer(s) / 3.5 Mile(s)

Tower Bridge

The Distance from Big Ben to Tower Bridge is 5.6 Kilometer(s) / 3.5 Mile(s)

📘 London Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: London operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during the winter and British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT +1, during the summer months.

Weather: London has a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round. Summers are generally warm with average highs around 22°C (72°F), while winters are cool with temperatures averaging 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Rain is frequent but typically light.

Population: London has a population of over 9 million people, making it the largest city in the United Kingdom. It is one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse cities in the world, with more than 300 languages spoken.

Size: London spans an area of about 1,572 square kilometers (607 square miles) and is divided into 32 boroughs plus the City of London. The River Thames flows through the city, shaping its layout and history.

Language: English is the official language in London. Due to its diversity, many other languages are spoken across the city, including Bengali, Polish, Arabic, French, and Urdu.

Currency: The currency used is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common across public transit and shops.

Safety: London is considered safe for tourists, though petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transport. Police presence is strong in central and tourist-heavy areas.

Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, a 10–15% tip is common if service is not included. Tipping is less expected in pubs, but appreciated for exceptional service.

Electricity and Plugs: The United Kingdom uses 230V electricity at 50Hz. Plug type G is standard. Visitors from countries with different plug types will need an adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

Water: Tap water in London is safe to drink and meets strict quality standards. It is treated and monitored regularly, and commonly served in restaurants upon request.

Annual Visitors: London welcomes over 20 million international visitors each year. It is one of the most visited cities in the world, with landmarks such as the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and the West End theatre district.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries, including EU and Commonwealth nations, can enter the UK for short stays without a visa. Others may require a Standard Visitor visa. A valid passport is required for all visitors.

Health & Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for entry into the UK. Travelers should ensure routine vaccines like MMR, flu, and COVID-19 are up to date. Healthcare is excellent, but visitors may need insurance to cover treatment.

Transportation: London has a vast and efficient public transportation system including the London Underground (“Tube”), buses, overground trains, and river ferries. Contactless cards and the Oyster system are widely used for payment.

Food: London’s food scene is incredibly diverse, offering everything from classic British fare like fish and chips to world cuisines. Street food markets, fine dining, and multicultural neighborhoods make the city a global culinary hub.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Londoners value politeness, queuing, and personal space. A simple “please” and “thank you” go a long way. Public behavior is generally reserved, and loud conduct is discouraged in shared spaces like public transport.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public areas. Mobile coverage is excellent, and prepaid SIM cards with data are easy to obtain at airports and shops.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended for visitors to London. While the NHS provides excellent care, non-residents may be charged for services. Insurance also helps with trip interruptions or lost belongings.

Did You Know? - Facts About Big Ben

The clock mechanism is famous for its reliability and has rarely stopped, even after events such as World War II bombings.

The official name of The tower in which Big Ben is located was changed to The Elizabeth Tower in 2012 in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.

Big Ben is The largest of The tower's five bells and weighs 13.5 tons.

Big Ben is The nickname for The Great Bell of The clock at The north end of The Palace of Westminster in London, though it is often extended to refer also to The clock and The clock tower.

The clock tower is an iconic symbol of London and The United Kingdom, and is one of The most prominent symbols of The United Kingdom and parliamentary democracy.