Big Ben, designed by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin in the Gothic Revival style, is the striking clock at the Palace of Westminster in London. The tour climbs the Elizabeth Tower to the mechanism room and the belfry, where the noise is loud enough that ear defenders are handed out. The belfry is open to the weather and can be windy, so bring a windbreaker or a warm top. Before the climb, everyone goes through airport-style security and leaves all belongings, phones and cameras included, in a locker, and there are no photos inside the tower. With no toilets inside the tower either, a stop in Westminster Hall beforehand is worth it; the Jubilee Café just off the hall serves light meals and drinks. The trade-off is age: the tour has a minimum age, so families with younger children will only see the tower from outside, and teenagers on the tour need an adult with them.
Family FAQ
How much does Big Ben cost?
Tours cost GBP 55 for adults and GBP 35 for children aged 11-17.
Where are the toilets at Big Ben?
There are no toilets inside the tower; use the facilities in Westminster Hall before the tour.
