London · Westminster
Big Ben and Parliament Square
The Elizabeth Tower and the Houses of Parliament, seen from Parliament Square and Westminster Bridge. A short stop with the best photos in London.
- 40 min
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Westminster
Data checked on October 4, 2026
Big Ben is the nickname of the great bell. The clock tower that holds it, finished in 1859, was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012. It stands at the north end of the Houses of Parliament, and the bell strikes on the hour. There is no public entry, so this is a look-and-photograph stop.
What to look for
- The clock face seen from Westminster Bridge
- The bell striking on the hour
- The statues in Parliament Square
- The long front of the Houses of Parliament
Opening hours
Always open.
Source: Visit London, checked October 4, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free.
Getting there
Westminster station (Jubilee, District and Circle lines) has an exit right beside the tower.