Westminster and Big Ben Tour Guide 2026

Big Ben is technically the name of the bell, not the tower. The tower itself is called the Elizabeth Tower, renamed for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012. Standing 96 metres tall at the north end of the Houses of Parliament, it is the most photographed landmark in London. The clock has kept time since 1859 and its famous chimes are broadcast daily by the BBC. Tours of the Elizabeth Tower (including climbing the 334 steps to the top) are available to UK residents through their MP, but the exterior is impressive enough for most visitors.

Westminster Abbey is where English monarchs have been crowned since 1066. It is also the burial place of 17 monarchs and some of the nation's greatest figures, including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Geoffrey Chaucer, and Charles Dickens. The Gothic architecture is breathtaking, and the audio guide brings the stories of its 1,000-year history to life. Entry costs around £29 for adults, but attending a service (including the stunning evensong) is free.

The Palace of Westminster is a working parliament, but guided tours are available during recesses (summer, Easter, and other parliamentary breaks). Audio tours and guided tours take you through the historic chambers, including the House of Lords with its gilded throne and the House of Commons where MPs debate. Saturday tours run year-round. It is a fascinating insight into British democracy and the building's medieval and Victorian architecture.

The most iconic photograph of Big Ben is from Westminster Bridge, looking north along the Thames towards the Elizabeth Tower. For a wider view including the whole Palace of Westminster, cross to the South Bank and walk along the riverside path. The view from the London Eye capsule with Big Ben in the foreground is spectacular. St James's Park bridge offers a more unusual angle with the tower framed by trees.

Westminster is packed with attractions within walking distance of each other:

• Churchill War Rooms - the underground bunker where Churchill directed WWII operations, perfectly preserved
• Downing Street - see the famous black door of Number 10 (from behind the gates)
• The Cenotaph - the national war memorial on Whitehall
• Horse Guards Parade - daily changing of the guard ceremony (less crowded than Buckingham Palace)
• Banqueting House - the only surviving part of Whitehall Palace, with a stunning Rubens ceiling
• St James's Park - the prettiest Royal Park, with pelicans and views of Buckingham Palace

Start at Westminster Tube station (Jubilee, District, and Circle lines), which exits right next to Big Ben. Allow at least 3-4 hours to see Westminster Abbey, take photos of Big Ben, walk down Whitehall past Downing Street and Horse Guards, and visit the Churchill War Rooms. End at St James's Park and walk through to Buckingham Palace.

For a full day, combine Westminster with our Buckingham Palace and Royal London guide, or head across Westminster Bridge to the London Eye and South Bank.