Houses of Parliament, London

The business of Parliament takes place in two places, the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Parliament exists to challenge the work of government, approve new laws and debate government policy and current issues.

Westminster Hall is a striking building and is officially a royal palace. Standing on the banks of the river Thames the Parliamentary buildings hold many important historical stories, most famously Guy Fawkes.

UK residents can attend debates, watch committees, take a tour of Parliament and climb the Clock Tower

Overseas visitors can attend debates and watch committees when Parliament is in session, and can tour Parliament every Saturday and during the Summer Opening

There are tours available on a regular basis - they include access to some of the most important areas of the Palace in which Parliament meets, and explains what Parliament is and does, what it has meant to different people at different times, and how it came to be what it is today.

Most of the buildings seen on the tour were built in the mid 19th Century following a devastating fire, but the route also incorporates some of the earlier buildings, such as Westminster Hall, begun in 1097 by William Rufus, son of William the Conqueror.

You can visit the nearby Jewel Tower built around 1365, which is one of only two surviving sections of the medieval royal Palace of Westminster and contains an exhibition called "Parliament Past and Present".

Big Ben is the great bell in the clock tower which is 96 metres high in the sky overlooking Westminster and is open for tours for UK residents who have made arrangements with their MP. Unfortunately overseas visitors cannot climb the 393 steps to the top.

Westminster Abbey is just a short walk away.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Houses of Parliament?
The Houses of Parliament are well served by London Underground. The nearest tube stations are Westminster, Embankment, and Waterloo which is just across the Thames.

Where is Big Ben?
Big Ben is the great bell in the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament. You can find out more about Big Ben ad its opening times here.

Opening Times

Opening Hours
Saturday, throughout the year 9.15-4.30

Tour Availability
Tours run every 15 minutes.
July/August:
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri - 9.15am-4.30pm
Wednesday - 1.15-4.30pm

September:
Mon, Fri - 9.15am-4.30pm
Tues, Wed, Thurs - 1.15-4.30pm

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Ticket Prices

Adults - £15
Family - £37
Students - £10
OAP - £10
Children 5-16yrs - £6
Under 5yrs - FREE

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Disabled Facilities

A limited number of wheelchairs are available if requested in advance. Call 0207 219 3003.

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More Information

Telephone: 0870 906 3773

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