Visit the Houses of Parliament

Claim to Fame

The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, are home to the UK’s government and a symbol of British democracy, featuring the iconic Big Ben clock tower and striking Gothic architecture along the River Thames.

📌 Navigating Houses of Parliament : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Accessible restroom facilities available for visitors.
Hours of Operation: Opening times vary; check the official website for tour schedules and public gallery access times.
Important Information: Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods or for special events.
Admission Fee: Admission fee for tours; some areas have free access, like Westminster Hall.
How Long to Visit: Tours usually last between 1 to 2 hours.
WIFI: Free WIFI available in visitor areas.
Picnic Area: No picnic areas on the premises; nearby Victoria Tower Gardens offer outdoor space.
Parking: Limited nearby parking; public transportation is recommended.
Family Friendly: Tours are educational and suitable for older children interested in history and politics.
Photography: Photography is restricted in certain areas; check specific guidelines during your visit.
Restaurant or Cafe: Cafeteria available for visitors offering refreshments and meals.
Gift Shop: Gift shop available with a variety of parliamentary-themed souvenirs and books.
Handicap Accessible: Accessible to visitors with disabilities, with lifts and ramps available.
Pets: Only assistance dogs are allowed within the premises.
Guided Tours: Guided tours provide insights into British political history and the building's architecture.

📌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 Houses of Parliament

The Houses of Parliament are one of the most recognized landmarks in the United Kingdom. Located on the banks of the River Thames in central London, the complex is officially known as the Palace of Westminster and serves as the meeting place for the two houses of the UK Parliament: the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

What to Expect

Visitors can admire the breathtaking Gothic Revival architecture from the outside or book a guided tour to see the historic chambers within. The tour includes highlights such as Westminster Hall — the oldest part of the palace, dating back to 1097 — the Commons Chamber, and the Lords Chamber, each rich with tradition, history, and political significance.

Don’t miss Big Ben — officially named the Elizabeth Tower — which chimes every hour and remains one of the most photographed buildings in the world. Tours of the tower are available to UK residents who book in advance.

Background and Cultural Context

The original Palace of Westminster was a royal residence for centuries until a fire in 1834 destroyed much of the structure. It was rebuilt in its current form by architect Charles Barry and designer Augustus Pugin, resulting in the neo-Gothic masterpiece seen today.

The building has played a central role in British history, politics, and lawmaking for centuries. It remains a powerful symbol of parliamentary democracy and has been the site of many major speeches, debates, and moments in global political history.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and early autumn offer the best light for photography and smaller crowds. Tours run most Saturdays and during parliamentary recess periods, but it’s wise to check online in advance. The area around Westminster is especially beautiful at sunset when the golden hour reflects off the river and the palace facade.

How to Get There

The Houses of Parliament are centrally located in London and easily accessible by public transit. Take the London Underground to Westminster Station (Jubilee, Circle, and District lines), which exits directly in front of the building. Numerous bus routes and walking paths along the South Bank also offer scenic approaches to the site.

Photo Opportunities

Classic riverside view of Parliament and Big Ben from Westminster Bridge
Close-up of the ornate tower clock faces
Interior details during guided tours, including Westminster Hall and St. Stephen’s Hall
Twilight reflections of the Palace in the River Thames

Travel Tips

Arrive early for security screening when taking a tour.
Photography is allowed in some areas but restricted in the debating chambers.
Combine your visit with nearby sites like Westminster Abbey and the London Eye.
Book online in advance, especially during tourist seasons or recess periods.

FAQs

Can tourists go inside the Houses of Parliament?
Yes — guided tours are available to both UK residents and international visitors during specific times of year.

What is the difference between Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament?
Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell housed in the Elizabeth Tower; the Houses of Parliament refer to the entire complex.

Is it still an active government building?
Yes — it remains the center of UK parliamentary activity and is where laws are debated and passed.

Final Thoughts

Whether viewed from across the Thames, explored on a guided tour, or admired at night when fully illuminated, the Houses of Parliament are a must-see for any visitor to London. Their history, architectural grandeur, and role in shaping the modern world make them one of the most important and inspiring landmarks in the city.

Things To Do near Houses of Parliament

Churchill War Rooms

The Distance from Houses of Parliament to Churchill War Rooms is 0.6 Kilometer(s) / 0.4 Mile(s)

London Eye

The Distance from Houses of Parliament to London Eye is 1 Kilometer(s) / 0.6 Mile(s)

West End Theatre District

The Distance from Houses of Parliament to West End Theatre District is 1.3 Kilometer(s) / 0.8 Mile(s)

Buckingham Palace

The Distance from Houses of Parliament to Buckingham Palace is 1.9 Kilometer(s) / 1.2 Mile(s)

Tate Modern

The Distance from Houses of Parliament to Tate Modern is 3.2 Kilometer(s) / 2 Mile(s)

British Museum

The Distance from Houses of Parliament to British Museum is 3.5 Kilometer(s) / 2.2 Mile(s)

Hyde Park

The Distance from Houses of Parliament to Hyde Park is 4.3 Kilometer(s) / 2.7 Mile(s)

Harrods

The Distance from Houses of Parliament to Harrods is 4.3 Kilometer(s) / 2.7 Mile(s)

Tower of London

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

Tower Bridge

The Distance from Houses of Parliament 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 Houses of Parliament

The Houses of Parliament is officially known as The Palace of Westminster and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The House of Commons and The House of Lords meet in this building, making it The center of political life in The UK.

The original Palace of Westminster was destroyed by fire in 1834, and The current building was designed by architect Charles Barry.

The public can attend debates, watch committee hearings, and take guided tours of The Parliament when it is in session or during The summer opening.

The iconic clock tower of The Houses of Parliament is often called Big Ben, although this name actually refers to The bell inside The tower.