Big Ben, London, England (United Kingdom)

Big Ben, referred to often simply as the clock tower, is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Officially named the Elizabeth Tower, it stands at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. Home to the Great Bell, the nickname Big Ben actually refers to the bell itself, rather than the tower. This striking example of Gothic Revival architecture draws tourists from around the globe who come to hear its famed chimes, which have marked the hour with impeccable accuracy since 1859. Visitors cherish the rich history and political significance imbued in this monumental clock.

Carry a camera to capture the intricate details of Big Ben’s architecture and the dynamic surroundings of the Westminster area.

Check the parliamentary schedule ahead of your visit; you may have the chance to enter the Westminster Palace and learn more about its history.

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The Icon of London

Big Ben, located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, is not just a clock tower, but a symbol of both London and England. Officially named the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II, it is often referred to by the name of its main bell. The tower holds the second largest four-faced chiming clock in the world and was once the tallest clock tower globally. The significance of Big Ben lies not only in its architectural achievements but also as a central point of New Year’s celebrations in the UK, where its chimes mark the start of a new year. A visit offers tourists a glimpse into the UK’s history and its ongoing political life, as it stands adjacent to the Houses of Parliament, the center of British politics. Though currently under restoration, Big Ben remains a must-visit for tourists, symbolizing resilience and continuation amidst the evolving British landscape.

Explore the Surrounding Area

While Big Ben itself is an iconic structure, the surrounding area of the Palace of Westminster offers additional attractions. Tours of the Houses of Parliament provide a deeper understanding of the UK’s political history and present-day workings. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the tower and the Thames River from Westminster Bridge. Don’t miss the chance to hear the famed chimes of Big Ben, especially memorable during New Year’s Eve celebrations.

The Great Bell and Its Chimes

One notable aspect of Big Ben is its main bell, known as the Great Bell. Despite common misconceptions, Big Ben is not the tower itself but this 13.5-ton bell. The original bell cracked under testing and was recast in 1858. Its distinctive chimes, heard across London, have been broadcasted by the BBC since 1923, serving as a comfort and reminder of home for listeners worldwide during times of war and peace. This historical element highlights not only a feat of engineering but also a piece of living history that has been part of British life for over 150 years.

discover the charm of Big Ben

The iconic Big Ben is renowned largely as a must-visit for both history buffs and architectural aficionados. However, it holds appeal across all age groups, including children, couples, and older visitors. From its awe-striking clock face to the historical significance of the Houses of Parliament, which it adjoins, there is much for everyone to enjoy and learn.

when is the best time to visit?

Visiting Big Ben can be most rewarding during the late spring or early autumn months, when London’s weather is most temperate. This timing avoids the peak tourist season of summer, offering a more relaxed experience.

Annual Events

For those looking to enhance their visit, attending the New Year’s Eve festivities near Big Ben is highly recommended. The spectacular fireworks and celebrations offer a unique viewpoint with the chiming of the clock at midnight creating a magical experience.

accessibility and limitations

The accessibility of Big Ben, mostly suited for viewing from the outside due to renovation works, deserves attention for an informed visit.

Accessibility

Despite renovations, the surrounding areas of Big Ben are accessible to wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Temporary pathways and signage provide guidance during such periods.

Limitations

Age Restrictions: Currently, no tours available to the public.
Photography: Photography might be restricted during specific hours or events.

Notes to visitors

Preparation for weather changes is advised as much time is spent outdoors.
Expect security screenings at nearby buildings.

General informations

Location

Located adjacent to the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, Big Ben stands near significant landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and the Thames River.

Address:

Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom

Opening hours

Big Ben is viewable at all hours but does not have accessible tours for the public currently due to ongoing renovations.

Reaching big ben

Car

Given its central location, Big Ben can be accessed by car though parking may be limited. Local parking facilities are available but subject to charges.

Public transport is highly recommended. The Westminster Station is the nearest tube station.

Nearby Attractions

Explore other nearby attractions to maximize your visit:

Westminster Abbey – 0.5 miles (0.8 km)
London Eye – 0.8 miles (1.3 km)
Thames River Cruise – 0.6 miles (1 km)
National Gallery – 1.2 miles (2 km)
Trafalgar Square – 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
St James’s Park – 0.8 miles (1.3 km)

Common questions

What architectural style is Big Ben?

Big Ben is designed in the Gothic Revival architectural style. This style is characterized by its intricacies, pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and ornate detailing which mimic the medieval Gothic architecture but updated for a more modern era. Big Ben’s tower, officially known as Elizabeth Tower, stands out with its spire topped by a gilded finial, framed by the opulent ornamental stonework around its face and the elaborate pinnacles surrounding its base. These features mirror the Victorian-age desire to signify power and heritage through impressive architectural feats.

Why is Big Ben called Big Ben?

The nickname ‘Big Ben’ originally referred to the Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower and not the clock or the tower itself. The name might have been derived from Sir Benjamin Hall, who was the First Commissioner for Works and known for his large size. His name is inscribed on the bell. Over time, the nickname Big Ben became synonymous with both the bell, the clock, and the tower by extension, although the official name of the tower was changed to Elizabeth Tower in 2012 in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

How accurate is Big Ben?

Big Ben is renowned for its accuracy. The clock mechanism is a marvel of engineering that has been largely reliable since it first started operating in 1859. The clock’s accuracy is maintained by adjusting the weight of the pendulum with old pre-decimal pennies; it’s a remarkably simple solution to adjust the timekeeping. This mechanism ensures that Big Ben can be accurate within two seconds per week, which is exceedingly precise for a clock of its age and size.

How often is Big Ben maintained?

Big Ben undergoes maintenance regularly to ensure it operates correctly. Major maintenance work is less frequent but significant, involving detailed inspections and repairs to both the clock and the tower. For instance, major renovations that started in 2017 are aimed at refurbishing the clock face, repairing the stonework, and ensuring the structural integrity of the tower. Day-to-day maintenance involves checks and adjustments to the clock mechanism to keep its timekeeping accurate.

What events caused Big Ben to stop in the past?

Throughout its history, Big Ben has stopped functioning a few times due to various reasons. Notably, in 1962, the clock was stopped for nine months when metal fatigue in the supporting cast iron pedestals caused the mechanism to seize. Again in 1976, a similar issue stopped the clock for several months. Other events include weather-related stoppages, such as heavy snowfall in 1962 that froze the clock hands, and occasional smaller incidents for maintenance purposes or electrical faults.

Can the public visit the inside of Big Ben?

Generally, the public is not allowed to visit the interior of Big Ben. Access to the Elizabeth Tower, where Big Ben is located, is restricted to UK residents who must arrange tours through their local MP or a Member of the House of Lords. Even then, these tours are not always available, particularly during periods of maintenance. Security and safety concerns also limit the number of tours that can be safely conducted in such a historic structure.

What materials were used in the construction of Big Ben?

Big Ben and its host, the Elizabeth Tower, were constructed with a variety of materials that enhance its durability and grandeur. The framework of the tower is made of brick clad in Anston limestone, a durable building material that contributes to the tower’s weight and solidity. The clock faces are made of opal glass, held together by iron frames. The bell itself, Big Ben, is made of 12.5% tin and 87.5% copper, which is typical for large bells to ensure both durability and sound quality.

What does the inscription on Big Ben mean?

The inscription on Big Ben reads: “O Lord, keep safe our Queen Victoria the First.” This inscription, located on the part of the bell facing the Houses of Parliament, reflects the bell’s creation and casting during Queen Victoria’s reign and is a prayer for her safety and wellbeing. It also underscores the longstanding tradition of linking monumental setups like Big Ben to the reigning sovereign of the time, embedding the clock and bell within Britain’s national identity and history.

How are the clock faces of Big Ben illuminated?

The clock faces of Big Ben are illuminated using energy-efficient LED lights that were installed to replace the old light bulbs. This shift not only enhances the visibility of the clock at night but also aligns with broader environmental sustainability targets. The lighting is designed to ensure that the clock faces are clearly visible from a distance, accentuating the detailed figures and inscriptions on the clock’s face without overwhelming its aesthetic appeal.

What is the weight of the bell in Big Ben?

The bell known as Big Ben within the Elizabeth Tower weighs approximately 13.5 tons (13,760 kilograms). Cast in 1858, Big Ben is the largest of the five bells that reside in the tower and was the largest bell in the United Kingdom at the time of its casting. Its considerable size contributes to the deep, resonant tones it produces, which are recognizable sounds for many around the world.

How was Big Ben affected during World War II?

During World War II, Big Ben remained operational but faced several challenges. Although the House of Commons and other sections of the Palace of Westminster were damaged during the Blitz, the Elizabeth Tower and Big Ben survived largely unscathed. Despite the threat of bombs, the clock hands were only stopped briefly, and the bells continued ringing throughout the war, serving as a symbol of resilience and continuity to the British public during those difficult times.

Who designed Big Ben and when was it completed?

Big Ben was designed by Augustus Pugin and was completed in 1859. The clock and dials were designed by Edmund Beckett Denison, with the clock mechanism being built by the clockmaker Edward John Dent. Pugin’s design reflects the Gothic Revival style, and his contribution was one of his final works before his health declined. The completion of Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower marked a significant architectural and cultural symbol for the UK, embodying both aesthetic brilliance and innovative engineering.

HelloMondo review

"Big Ben's iconic status is unmatched, but beware of crowds and ongoing renovations which might dampen the experience."

Is Big Ben in London worth visiting?

Big Ben, standing tall at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, is an iconic landmark globally recognized. A visit offers tourists not just a view of the splendid clock tower but also delves into the rich history and engineering marvel of the late 19th century. Your trip to London would arguably be incomplete without seeing this quintessential symbol.

However, potential visitors should note that ongoing renovations can sometimes restrict access and spoil the visual aesthetics, which could be disappointing. Furthermore, the area is often crowded, which can somewhat detract from the experience. Careful planning regarding timing could enhance your visit. Despite these issues, the historical and cultural value of seeing Big Ben firsthand makes it generally worthwhile.