Big Ben

While often referred to as Big Ben, this world-famous landmark is technically the Elizabeth Tower, with the name Big Ben belonging to the massive thirteen-ton Great Bell hanging inside. Following a multi-year restoration, the tower now gleams with restored Victorian gilding and its original Prussian blue clock hands. Standing at the north end of the Houses of Parliament, this neo-Gothic masterpiece is the architectural heartbeat of the United Kingdom. It is not just a clock; it is a global symbol of resilience and precision. Watching the dials illuminate at night or hearing the deep, resonant "bongs" echo across the River Thames is a quintessential London experience that connects every visitor to the city’s rich political and cultural history.

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Alles über Big Ben

Was Sie erwartet

The exterior of Big Ben is free for everyone to admire from public spaces like Westminster Bridge or Parliament Square. However, if you wish to go inside, you must book an official Elizabeth Tower tour. In 2026, these guided tours cost approximately £35 for adults and £20 for children aged 11 to 17. The tours generally run from Monday to Saturday at various times throughout the day. Your ticket includes a journey up the tower and access to the historic Westminster Hall. Please note that for safety and heritage reasons, children under the age of 11 are not permitted on the tower climb. Facilities like the Jubilee Café and the official Parliament shop are available on-site for ticket holders.

Warum diese Tour buchen

Visiting the interior of Big Ben is a physical challenge that requires climbing 334 narrow, spiral stone steps. There is no elevator, so you must be comfortable with heights and physical exertion. Security is extremely tight; you will go through airport-style screening at the Cromwell Green entrance. Once inside, photography is strictly prohibited to protect the security of the Palace of Westminster. You will be required to leave all personal belongings, including phones and cameras, in a secure locker before the climb begins. Because the bells are incredibly loud at the top, the museum provides ear defenders for all guests. It is also worth noting that tours are conducted in English only and can be cancelled at short notice if parliamentary business requires it.

Die richtige Tour auswählen

Big Ben is located in the heart of Westminster and is remarkably easy to find. The nearest Underground station is Westminster, which is served by the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines. As you exit the station, the tower will be immediately visible directly across the street. If you are traveling by national rail, Waterloo and Victoria stations are both about a fifteen-minute walk or a short bus ride away. Several bus routes, including the 11, 24, 148, and 211, stop right at Parliament Square. For those who want to arrive with a spectacular view, the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers stops at Westminster Pier, offering a unique perspective of the clock face from the river before you step onto dry land.

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If you are hoping to go inside, you must be prepared for the ticket release. Tickets for the 2026 tours are released on the second Wednesday of every month at 10am London time, usually for dates three months in advance. These slots often sell out within minutes, so set a reminder. For those just viewing from the outside, the best time for photos is early morning when the sun hits the eastern face of the tower, or at "blue hour" just after sunset when the clock dials are beautifully backlit. If you want to hear the full chime sequence, ensure you are nearby at the top of the hour. Midweek visits are generally less crowded than weekends when Parliament Square becomes a hub for tourists and street performers.