Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

Big Ben is the name given to the famous clock that towers above the Houses of Parliament. The nickname actually comes from the great bell inside the clock tower. It is the world's largest four-faced chiming clock and has become a famous London landmark. The clock has rarely stopped and is a very reliable time-keeper. A fun fact to point out to kids is that there is a light above the clock face which shines when parliament is in session. Although visitors are not allowed, a trip to parliament square is well worth it, because the best view of Big Ben is from the outside. The clock strikes every quarter of an hour and if you can arrange it, try to plan your visit so that you hear the clock chime on the hour.

The Houses of Parliament is where the House of Commons and House of Lords debate and pass laws in Britain. There is a grand ceremony every November when the Queen travels in a royal coach to open the sessions in parliament.

If you are organised, remember to print out a gallery trail in advance as these are no longer available from the information desk.

Address:

Parliament Square, Westminster, SW1A 0AA

Telephone:

Not applicable

Admission:

Not open to general public - view from outside

Opening Times:

Not open to general public - view from outside

Nearest Tube:

Westminster

Where to Eat:

Pret A Manger

What's nearby:

Westminster Abbey

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