Big Ben

A tour of Parliament does not include a trip to see Big Ben, but constituents may wish to visit the clock tower on a separately-arranged tour. Constituents should note it is not always possible to arrange a tour of the Palace and clock tower on the same day.

Due to the security risks involved in allowing people to tour Big Ben's tower, security checks need to be undertaken on visitors. It is recommended, therefore, that visitors book their tour at least three weeks before they wish to go, although those with foreign passports should allow more time.

Unfortunately children under eleven are not permitted to join the tours, and all visitors must be fit and able (and not scared of heights!) as there are 334 spiral steps to negotiate with little respite. Tours are for a maximum of sixteen visitors at a time.

Visits start at 10.30am, 11.30am, 2.30pm and occasionally 9.30am on Mondays to Fridays. Tours take about an hour and parties should gather in Portcullis House reception no later than 10 minutes before their appointed tour time.

Please note that visitors are not permitted to take photographs inside the parliamentary estate.

 

 

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