Houses of Parliament & Big Ben Tours
45 Reviews
Few landmarks epitomize central London as perfectly as Big Ben, the iconic clock tower that stands at the east end of the Houses of Parliament. Heralding the location of Great Britain's political nucleus in Westminster, Big Ben—or the Elizabeth Tower, renamed in honor of the Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee—stands proud as a symbol of London and the striking centerpiece of the Thames waterfront. The Palace of Westminster, the home of the Houses of Parliament, is another historic monument, as behind the grand Gothic facade, politicians have dictated local laws since 1215, when King John's Magna Carta signified the birth of parliament in the United Kingdom.
The Basics
The Basics
The most exciting ways to see the UK Parliament and Big Ben's great clock face are from a capsule on the nearby London Eye Ferris wheel or on a Thames River cruise, both of which offer magnificent views of the 315-foot (96-meter) clock tower and the Neo-Gothic Palace of Westminster while allowing you to avoid the crowds that gather at Big Ben's base. The landmarks can be experienced at their most atmospheric on a night tour of London, when Big Ben is dramatically illuminated.
Travelers wanting to learn about British politics, with its complex system of monarchs, lords, and elected members of parliament, can arrange an official tour of the Houses of Parliament or even watch a debate from the public galleries. Big Ben, however, is only accessible to UK residents, who must request permission from their local member of parliament to visit. For everyone else, the clock tower is best admired from afar on a city tour that includes stops at other London attractions, such as Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to Big Ben
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are located on the north bank of the Thames River, easily accessible from the Westminster underground tube station, which is serviced by the Jubilee, Circle, and District lines. Alternatively, hop off at Waterloo station to wander along the vibrant South Bank past the London Eye, then walk across Westminster Bridge to Big Ben.
- Big Ben is visited on most half- and full-day tours of London, whether a walking, biking, or bus tour.
- Take 10 minutes to admire the statues of Parliament Square, all of which depict famous political figures.
- Guided tours of the Houses of Parliament run most Saturdays, and the public galleries are open when parliament is in sessionâtime your visit wisely to watch opposing political parties in fierce debate.
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are located on the north bank of the Thames River, easily accessible from the Westminster underground tube station, which is serviced by the Jubilee, Circle, and District lines. Alternatively, hop off at Waterloo station to wander along the vibrant South Bank past the London Eye, then walk across Westminster Bridge to Big Ben.
When to Get There
Holiday travelers can join the crowds to watch London's legendary New Year's Eve fireworks, which take place right in front of Big Ben and ignite the sky in a riot of color. Ensure you book tickets for the firework display well in advance to avoid disappointment and guarantee an unforgettable evening.
Address: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, England
Hours: Daily when parliament is in session
Admission: £14-£16.50 (adults)
370 Tours and Activities to Experience Houses of Parliament & Big Ben
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Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament Tour in London
Get acquainted with two iconic London monuments on a half-day tour of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. While gaining fascinating insight into the royal history of Great Britain, absorb the Gothic grandeur of Westminster Abbey’s interior and head inside the Houses of Parliament—home to the renowned Big Ben—to see highlights like the House of Commons and Lord’s Chamber. From your guide, learn about the United Kingdom’s political system and major historic events while touring the prominent landmarks.
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Skip the Line into Houses of Parliament & Westminster Abbey Fully-Guided Tour
Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament are two of London’s highlight landmarks—and on this tour, you’ll have special access to both. Skip the line at Westminster Abbey and head inside the soaring church, where your guide will share facts about its royal history. Next, you’ll have the rare opportunity to explore parts of the interior of the Houses of Parliament, which is frequently off-limits to the public.
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Behind-the-Scenes Houses of Parliament Guided Tour
Step inside one of London's most iconic attractions on this behind-the-scenes tour of the Houses of Parliament. Meet your guide right in front of the UNESCO-listed attraction. Once inside, you’ll follow in royal footsteps, will visit both the House of Commons and the Lords Chamber, will admire artworks and architectural highlights, and more. As you go, your guide will share stories and facts about the landmark’s long history.
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London in One Day Sightseeing Tour Including Tower of London, Changing of the Guard with Optional London Eye Upgrade
Get to know London in one day on this sight-packed, full-day tour with a guide. Traveling by air-conditioned coach, see top London attractions such as Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and enjoy fast-track entry and a guided tour of St. Paul's Cathedral. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, and then visit the Tower of London. Break for a pub lunch, and receive a ticket for a Thames River sightseeing cruise to use after your tour or another day. For a bird's-eye view of the city, upgrade to include a ticket for the London Eye in the evening.
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The Original Tour London: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
See the best of London without the stress of rigid tour times and massive crowds on this hop-on hop-off bus tour. With your flexible pass, hop aboard the double-decker, open-top bus for a comfortable sightseeing excursion. Great for kids and adults, your pass offers multiple route options with stops at main attractions like Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and more. Bonus features include a free city walking tour, a Thames River cruise, and local discounts.
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See the English capital’s top landmarks on this most comprehensive of London magical tours. Take a tour of beautiful St Paul’s Cathedral, then make a photo stop at Westminster Abbey. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and visit the Tower of London, where you'll have free time for lunch (own expense). Enjoy an extended river sightseeing cruise, and upgrade to cap everything with a London Eye flight or cream tea at Harrods.
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London Eye River Cruise and Standard London Eye Ticket
Many of London’s top attractions lie along the Thames River. This boat tour cruises by most of them and includes a London Eye ride to see them from above. Get to know the city’s beating heart and great contrasts as you pass historic sites such as Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London as well as contemporary landmarks like the Tate Modern and Millennium Bridge. Then, ride the Lastminute.com London Eye for sweeping views of the city.
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Historical London Walking Tour in Westminster & Entry to Churchill War Rooms
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Royal London Walking Tour: Early Access Tower of London & Changing of The Guard
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London by Night Sightseeing Tour - Open top bus
Experience the enchantment of London after hours on a night sightseeing tour. Aboard a double-decker bus, take a trip through the city to see illuminated attractions like Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Hear fascinating facts about passing sites and insider tips on where to visit in the bustling capital city from your expert guide.
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Thames 24 Hour Hop-On Hop-Off River Cruise
Discover the sights and history of London from the water on this leisurely cruise down the Thames River. With your 24-hour pass, enjoy unobstructed views of the city’s main riverside attractions like the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament from within an all-weather vessel, and hop on or off at any stop along the way. Create your own London adventure.
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London In a Day: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey & Changing of the Guard
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London in a Day Private Custom Tour
Discover the spectacular sights of London according to your own personal itinerary on a private custom tour of the vibrant capital with a knowledgeable guide. Opt to enjoy a half- or full-day tour and customize your itinerary according to your cultural and historical interests. Allow your expert guide to pre-plan logistics like public transportation and reservations, and then delve into the capital’s rich history by listening to illuminating commentary. See iconic attractions like Big Ben and the Tower of London, and stray from the conventional tourist trail for a unique experience of London.
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Thames Lunch Cruise with 2-Course Meal
Partake in a unique sightseeing excursion on this delightful lunch cruise along the Thames River. See the best of London’s riverside attractions on a cruise from Tower Pier to Westminster. Stroll the deck, savor a delectable 2-course meal, and admire great views of the London Eye, the Tower of London and more. An onboard bar offers additional drink options for spicing up your afternoon (own expense).
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Vintage London Bus Tour Including Thames Cruise with Optional London Eye
See London’s signature sights by vintage Routemaster bus and Thames River cruise on this sightseeing tour. Board a retro, red double-decker bus London Routemaster, and enjoy stellar views of top London attractions including the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey. Then, after a short Thames sightseeing cruise, ride your London double-decker to Buckingham Palace for a photo stop or to witness the colorful Changing of the Guard ceremony. If you wish, upgrade to add a visit to the London Eye, Tower of London, or UNESCO-listed Stonehenge after your tour.
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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London Thames River Lunch Cruise
Combine London’s riverside landmarks with a delicious meal on this lunchtime sightseeing cruise along the Thames River. Escape the city’s midday crowds, and relax as you admire the iconic sights ranged along the riverbanks. Enjoy stellar views of the London Eye, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and more; all as you savor a starter, main course and dessert freshly conjured up by the expert onboard chefs. A delightful way to spend lunchtime in London with family and friends or to celebrate a special occasion.
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Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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London Royal Parks Bike Tour including Hyde Park
Discover the beauty and history of Royal London by bike on a morning or afternoon city tour. Enjoy a guided ride through Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, and St. James's Park. Cruise by the stately monuments such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, and view royal sites like Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, and the Princess Diana Memorial. Along the way, learn about London’s rich history and contemporary culture.
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Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons
London Vintage Bus Tour with Cream Tea at Harrods
Sightsee in London by vintage double-decker bus and modern catamaran on this half-day tour. As you travel around the city, watch out for top London landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Then, hop out for photos at the Tower of London before taking a cruise along the Thames River. Sparkling wine, cream tea, and scones at Harrods complete the experience.
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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River Thames Evening Cruise
Witness the enchantment of London at night on an evening cruise along the historic Thames River. Aboard the glass-encased boat, enjoy the city’s main attractions at dusk, including the Shard, Big Ben, and the HMS Belfast. Savor sparkling wine and canapés as you cruise the river and delight in the magic of London’s urban shoreline as night falls.
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Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise
Glide by some of London’s must-see landmarks on a sightseeing cruise from Westminster to Greenwich on the Thames River. Step aboard your comfortable cruise boat at Westminster Pier and listen to the entertaining live commentary as you pass sights such as Shakespeare’s Globe, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. Drink in the views from the open or indoor deck, and at Greenwich, step ashore to visit attractions (own expense) such as the Cutty Sark or National Maritime Museum. Upgrade to include a return cruise back to Westminster.
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Private Tour: Black Taxi Tour of London
Take a private custom tour through bustling London in a traditional black taxi! Your personal driver will help you design the perfect 2-hour itinerary or take the reins completely, escorting you to London’s key attractions. Travel at your own pace, and request stops to snap photos, grab a souvenir or have a closer look at a site. London is your oyster on this private black taxi tour!
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From
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Face masks provided for travelers
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Private Walking tour London, Buckingham Palace to Big Ben and much more
This action-packed private walking tour of London is the ideal experience for travelers with limited time. You’ll save time and see multiple top London attractions in one day, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, The Houses of Parliament, and Trafalgar Square. By going on a walking tour, you’ll visit places on foot that can’t be reached by car or bus. Your tour will be enhanced with guide commentary about London’s highlights, as well as insider tips.
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From
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