Big Ben
4.5
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
About
Better known as Big Ben (it's actually the name of the Great Bell!), this iconic clock tower which stands at the Houses of Parliament is officially called the Elizabeth Tower, named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. When the Elizabeth Tower is open for tours, you can climb up the tower and admire the clock and bell up close—though slots are limited to U.K. residents and require reservations in advance.
But fret not, you can still learn about its history and admire its ornate golden facade on a tour of London or the Houses of Parliament.
– Tripadvisor
Suggested duration
< 1 hour
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Top ways to experience Big Ben
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Westminster
If you only had an afternoon to experience London on a grand scale, Westminster would be a wise place to start. The ornate Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey sit adjacent at a corner of Parliament Square, and a short stroll along The Mall leads to Buckingham Palace. Trafalgar Square and Nelson's Column are just up the road as well. As captivating as the architecture is, the wonders of Mother Nature are highlights of the area too. St James's Park (arguably London's loveliest), the expansive Green Park, and pedestrian friendly tree lined paths along the river showcase the exquisite manicure provided by English gardeners. Just beyond the landmarks and the gorgeous outdoor spaces, quiet residential squares and age old local pubs offer a more subdued take on this global seat of power in the heart of London.
How to get there
- Embankment • 10 min walk
- Waterloo • 10 min walk
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
10,000 within 3 miles
Attractions
2,331 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Arthur MHamilton, Canada1,038 contributionsForever THE icon of LondonWas lucky to have visited London with the scaffolding of the Big Ben finally off. Better stay at the top of the hour to hear it ring. There are also smaller chimes every 15 minutes. That is also pleasant to hear, so feel free to stick around the area and absorb the cityscape along the Westminster Bridge. There are also street vendors selling roasted peanuts or something, souvenir vendors, and scammers. Just beware of those ones particularly the rose guy. If you're travelling solo, don't worry, a lot of people will ask for pictures, so you can humbly ask to reciprocate if you want one, and for sure I know you will!Visited November 2022Written January 2, 2023
- Per HTungelsta, Sweden124 contributionsnice to walk and see it in distanceBig Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock at the Palace of Westminster in London. It is located in the Elizabeth Tower, which stands at 316 feet tall. The clock is known for its four faces, each 23 feet in diameter. It is one of the most iconic symbols of London and a popular tourist attraction. The clock tower is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Palace of Westminster.Visited January 2023Written January 19, 2023
- TravelingSoccerLoonSaint Paul, Minnesota3,188 contributionsIconicOne of the most iconic landmarks in the world and something that must be seen if visiting London. Even more stunning at night. It has been under construction for several years but all the scaffolding is now removed. I visited at the top of the hour to hear the famous chimes of the clock but was disappointed when it was total silence. This was in September 2022 so hopefully it is back working.Visited September 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten February 5, 2023
- Camila P22 contributionsBreathtakingAfter five years of renovations they finally removed the scaffolding in December! We were so lucky to be one of the first to see it. It looks so shiny and breathtaking. One of my best memories from out trip to London…Visited February 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten February 18, 2023
- AuthorSunflowerJFlorida18 contributionsFinally Got to See ItI've wanted to come see this clock my entire life. Benjamin Banneker being my inspiration for the visit. I'm blessed to have done so in the month that celebrates black history. It is huge in person and connected to a big building. Big Ben was closed for repairs this time around; but, I will return to go inside. When I do, I'll give a better rating. The clock is beautiful and worth the wait.Visited February 2023Traveled with familyWritten February 26, 2023
- MercyLondon, United Kingdom7 contributionsA must see in Londonthe most iconic landmarks in London, and a must-see for any visitor. The clock tower stands at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, and chimes every hour with a distinctive melody. The name Big Ben actually refers to the largest bell inside the tower, which weighs 13.5 tons and was cast in 1858. The tower itself is 96 meters tall and has four clock faces that are illuminated at night. You can admire Big Ben from various viewpoints around the city, or join a guided tour to learn more about its history and mechanics.Visited February 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten March 1, 2023
- Joasi23South Yorkshire, United Kingdom1,387 contributionsLooking good !Worth the wait to see this magnificent clock restored to its former glory. Be patient and you will get the iconic shot with a London bus passing . The flags nearby make the area even more attractive, so dont let the crowds put you off it’s in a location where you can easily walk 5 mins and find peace and history in abundance. It’s literally in front of you once you exit the tube at Westminster, always impresses however many times you see it.Visited March 2023Written March 12, 2023
- Jeffry bEssendon, Australia13,846 contributionsBig Ben is an iconic symbol of LondonProbably everyone on Earth has heard the sound of Big Ben. Big Ben is the main bell you hear when you hear the chimes. The Tower and the connection to the House of Parliament and the clock is well known, but it is not Big Ben. Big Ben is a bell, it has been restored recently. Big Ben is an iconic symbol of London.Visited January 2023Written March 21, 2023
- Victoria BRaleigh, North Carolina1,632 contributionsBeautiful!My oldest little was so excited to see Big Ben since she's seen it in her Peppa Pig book before our trip. We approached it on a double decker bus and she was too excited to be contained. It was great to see this beautiful clock up close with my family!Visited August 2022Written April 11, 2023
- Fam GBagsvaerd, Denmark538 contributionsIconic placeBusy place with a lot of tourists, like us, but still a place we several times past during our stay. It is like the bell tower sorry Elizabeth Tower, with the Great Bell is pulling you to visit, and it actually feels nice to be there. Lot of history and properly the best know place in whole England - iconic place.Visited April 2023Traveled with familyWritten April 11, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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beachgirl56065
Keller, TX17 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
The only part of Big Ben you can really see is the clock face as the rest is covered with wood and scaffolding at moment. It was disappointing. My understanding from the driver is that they only recently uncovered the face. The impression I got was that they have been working on it for quite some time.
Written January 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chattykatie1992
Brooklyn, NY27 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
Unfortunately it was covered in scaffolding. Like NY, the iconic picture you hope to get is obstructed by construction. Of course it remains one of the top ten to see. The refurbishing will take two years and it’s worth it to maintain an icon so important . We’ll have to go back!
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Victoria P
Chislehurst, UK21 contributions
Nov 2019 • Solo
It’s big but that’s about it. Massive hands.
I wonder if they’ll will add a digital face? Maybe they need to jazz it up a big with different sounds on the hour. I’m thinking different bird noises from across the globe and you can guess what they are.
I wonder if they’ll will add a digital face? Maybe they need to jazz it up a big with different sounds on the hour. I’m thinking different bird noises from across the globe and you can guess what they are.
Written October 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Janka K
Brno, Czech Republic6,264 contributions
Jul 2022
One of the icons of London that you just can't miss. You can see it from multiple places, as it stands out quite a lot above other buildings in the area.
Passing cars directly in from of the tower will prevent you to take a nice picture right away. Just count with a fact that it might take some time for you before all the cars and tourists in your way disappear from the view so you take your perfect picture.
Passing cars directly in from of the tower will prevent you to take a nice picture right away. Just count with a fact that it might take some time for you before all the cars and tourists in your way disappear from the view so you take your perfect picture.
Written December 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Samuel
1 contribution
Sep 2020
Was absolutely gorgeous. You get wrapped in a beautiful feeling of serenity upon seeing this magnificent piece of art. I mean, this is the worlds LARGEST four face clock and i'm simply in awe
Written November 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
busconi
Wenatchee, WA5,355 contributions
Jun 2022
Wasn't able to enter as refurbishing is still ongoing. Should be open to visitors soon. But it is an iconic structure and we are glad to have viewed it, even if only from the streets outside.
The tower itself is called The Elizabeth Tower (formerly The Clock Tower) Big Ben actually refers to the Clock's largest bell. And this tower was completed in 1859. (I love trivia) I also found that the tower was hit by a German bomb in 1941 but only minor damage occurred. And a really interesting tidbit, it is said, if the bell ever chimes 13 times, the lion statues in Trafalgar Square will come to life and either defend or ravage the city. (since it has never happened, we just don't know what those lions will do!!!!)
Anyway, trivia aside, one needs to set eyes on Big Ben when coming to London.
The tower itself is called The Elizabeth Tower (formerly The Clock Tower) Big Ben actually refers to the Clock's largest bell. And this tower was completed in 1859. (I love trivia) I also found that the tower was hit by a German bomb in 1941 but only minor damage occurred. And a really interesting tidbit, it is said, if the bell ever chimes 13 times, the lion statues in Trafalgar Square will come to life and either defend or ravage the city. (since it has never happened, we just don't know what those lions will do!!!!)
Anyway, trivia aside, one needs to set eyes on Big Ben when coming to London.
Written July 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
924david
Hertford, UK221 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
To anyone born in London Elizabeth Tower/Big Ben is more than just a big clock, it is an iconic part of our history so when the chance come to take a tour, I was straight onto the site to book up.
The 344 steps are broken into 3 parts and there is a chance to sit and listen to the guide explaining the history etc of the Tower with each stop. The mechanism is ingenious, and you get a good understanding of the workings.
Being in the tower next to Big Ben when it strikes is surreal having heard it so many times from outside. The tour last about 90 minutes and is good value. Only gripe is that you are not permitted to take photographs, other then that would thoroughly recommend.
The 344 steps are broken into 3 parts and there is a chance to sit and listen to the guide explaining the history etc of the Tower with each stop. The mechanism is ingenious, and you get a good understanding of the workings.
Being in the tower next to Big Ben when it strikes is surreal having heard it so many times from outside. The tour last about 90 minutes and is good value. Only gripe is that you are not permitted to take photographs, other then that would thoroughly recommend.
Written September 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FLnurseER
Boca Raton, FL2,793 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
For those who want to visit Big Ben, it’s going to be a while before the tower is open. The entire structure is covered by scaffolding and the only piece exposed and visible to the public is the clock face looking at the Westminster Bridge. At the present, that’s the best side to take pictures from. The view from the London Eye is not bad, but it depends on the time of day you go. We went before noon and had the sun in our eyes, not great for photos either.
Written October 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
H R Miranda
Vale of Glamorgan, UK63 contributions
Sep 2020 • Couples
Was so disappointed to bring my Chilean husband to London only to find this was all borded up and doesn't even chime. Was only once we got into the London Eye you could see the clock face over the scaffolding. Sign posted to end in 2021
Written September 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Marrs
Euxton, UK652 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
Even though the main structure is covered in scaffolding, you still have to see it.
It was the most wanted to see on the list when we told the boys we were taking them to London. They couldn't wait to see it.
Best views were from the London eye and from beneath it looking up
It was the most wanted to see on the list when we told the boys we were taking them to London. They couldn't wait to see it.
Best views were from the London eye and from beneath it looking up
Written September 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
András S
Budapest, Hungary261 contributions
Is it open for visitors in 2023?
The renovation has finished in 2022 and yet the Parliament's website says "During the conservation work on Big Ben, we have paused tours of Parliament's clock tower. "
Nonsense.
Saurabh G
New Delhi, India365 contributions
Not open yet as per the last update I have.
Kevin M
Worcester, UK
It's not the tower!
One review said it should be Long John
That's because you're looking at the Elizabeth Tower.
Big Ben is a big bell.
Bong!!
Inspiration648121
Sweetwater, TN
Does anyone know if the pandemic has had an effect on the construction of Big Ben? Has the estimated completion date changed or is it still due to open end of 2021?
Ian L
London, UK2 contributions
Thanks for your question. We don’t have an update about the works yet. Please go to the Big Ben page on the UK Parliament website (parliament.uk/bigben) where you can sign-up to our e-newsletter to receive the latest information.
Nooker P
Bydgoszcz, Poland1 contribution
I would like to see the current pic of Big Ben now because I am going to London next week thanks!
Mital_Ashish
Mumbai, India465 contributions
the pic uploaded are early December, i believe the repairs are going to last till summer 2021, the BIG BEN will still look good
I’m planning a trip to London next year around May 2021. Will the scaffold be off Big Ben by then?
Amy C
London, UK348 contributions
Dont know sorry
Is the correct time on the first or last chime. Logically it should be the first. Please confirm, thank you.
Will H
Tadcaster, UK10 contributions
That's a good question, It chimes it is the last one
#eli_2007
Pianoro, Italy91 contributions
Scusate qualcuno sa come mai il big-ben é impalcato?😕
globetrade
Fasano, Italy46 contributions
Restauro il prossimo anno dovrebbe tornare al suo splendore.
MEurope
United States133 contributions
Hi, does anyone know which side of Big Ben is not covered by scaffolding? It would be nice to try and find the right location/direction from which the see it. Thanks for any info!
Courtney S
United States83 contributions
You can’t see any of the clock tower :(
Looking towards Big Ben from Trafalgar Square, you can see the clock face, but the closer to get, you also lose sight of that.
SavCity
San Rafael, CA1 contribution
I am visiting London next week! I'm curious if Big Ben is still covered in scaffolding? Or has that part been completed and you can see the tower? Thanks!
jim_s69
croydon121 contributions
Still covered and will be for a long time, asbestos and previously unknown WW2 damage recently discovered
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Claim your listingBig Ben - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Big Ben
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Big Ben:
- Westminster Abbey Tour and optional visit to Houses of Parliament in London (From $63.11)
- London Eye River Cruise and Standard London Eye Ticket (From $77.27)
- London In One Day Tour with Changing of the Guard with London Eye option (From $148.11)
- Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise (From $52.16)
- Vintage London Bus Tour Including Thames Cruise with Optional London Eye (From $66.97)
- Hotels near Big Ben:
- (0.24 mi) London Marriott Hotel County Hall
- (0.27 mi) Premier Inn London County Hall Hotel
- (0.36 mi) Conrad London St. James
- (0.30 mi) hub by Premier Inn London Westminster Abbey hotel
- (0.37 mi) Corinthia Hotel
- Restaurants near Big Ben:
- (0.02 mi) Cafe Nero
- (0.02 mi) Caffe Nero
- (0.03 mi) Greggs
- (0.04 mi) St. Stephen's Tavern
- (0.10 mi) The Red Lion, Parliament Street
- Attractions near Big Ben:
- (0.01 mi) Top Private Tours
- (0.01 mi) Muslim History Tours
- (0.02 mi) LondonPhotoWalks
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- (0.03 mi) Urban Saunters
Big Ben Information
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