Visiting the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: tours, debates and tips

The Houses of Parliament are not just a famous building to photograph. They are the working home of the UK Parliament, and visitors can go inside, take a tour and even watch debates. Here is how to plan your visit.

Three ways to go inside

• A guided tour: a guide leads you through Westminster Hall, the Central Lobby and the chambers of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, in about 90 minutes.
• An audio tour: follow the same route at your own pace with a multimedia guide.
• The public galleries: watch debates in either House for free when it is sitting. No booking is needed for most debates; just queue at the visitor entrance.

When tours run

Tours for the public run on most Saturdays all year, and on weekdays when Parliament is in recess, including much of August and parts of other holidays. When Parliament is sitting on weekdays, the building is busy with MPs and peers, and tours are limited. UK residents can also ask their MP or a member of the House of Lords to arrange a free tour.

What you will see

Westminster Hall, built in 1097, is the oldest part of the palace and one of the finest medieval halls in Europe. From there, the route climbs to St Stephen’s Hall and the octagonal Central Lobby, where the two Houses meet.

You walk through the King’s Robing Room and the Royal Gallery, used at the State Opening of Parliament, and into the red-benched House of Lords and the green-benched House of Commons. Some tour packages add afternoon tea in the palace.

Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower

Big Ben is the great bell in the Elizabeth Tower. After a five-year restoration, the clock and the bell were back in full working order in 2022. A limited number of tours climb the 334 steps to the belfry, where you hear Big Ben strike the hour. Places are few and sell out quickly, so check the UK Parliament website well in advance.

Security and practical tips

• Use the right entrance: visitors enter at Cromwell Green, opposite Westminster Abbey.
• Allow time for security: there are airport-style checks, so arrive early.
• Travel light: large bags and suitcases are not allowed, and there is no luggage storage.
• Bring ID if you have it, in case you are asked for it.
• Check sitting times: the galleries are open only when the Houses are sitting, which varies through the year.

The best views outside

For photos, the best views are from Westminster Bridge and from the South Bank opposite, especially at dusk, when the palace is lit up. A ride on the London Eye shows the whole building from above, and a river cruise from Westminster Pier gives the view from the water. Read more on our Houses of Parliament guide.