Big Ben
The iconic Elizabeth Tower, known globally as Big Ben, stands as a majestic symbol of London and the UK Parliament.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Big Ben
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The iconic Elizabeth Tower, known globally as Big Ben, stands as a majestic symbol of London and the UK Parliament.
"A must-see London icon, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities from various vantage points."
🎯 Best Photo Angles
Walk across Westminster Bridge and turn right at the bottom of the steps for a hidden tunnel view!
🚶♀️ Walkable Exploration
Big Ben, Parliament, and Buckingham Palace are walkable. Consider a Thames Clipper for river views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben)
Westminster, London
The iconic clock tower, a symbol of London and the UK. Admire its grandeur from the outside.

Westminster Bridge Views
Westminster Bridge
Capture postcard-perfect shots of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from this bustling bridge.

Parliament Square Photo Spot
Parliament Square
Find charming red telephone boxes for classic London photos with Big Ben in the background.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Clock Face
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Photo Angles
Walk across Westminster Bridge and turn right at the bottom of the steps for a hidden tunnel view!
🚶♀️ Walkable Exploration
Big Ben, Parliament, and Buckingham Palace are walkable. Consider a Thames Clipper for river views.
🎟️ Tour Tickets Sell Out
Book Big Ben tower tours MONTHS in advance; they sell out quickly!
🧥 Weather Preparedness
Tours can be cold and windy at the top. Dress in layers and be prepared for the elements.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Photo Angles
Walk across Westminster Bridge and turn right at the bottom of the steps for a hidden tunnel view!
🚶♀️ Walkable Exploration
Big Ben, Parliament, and Buckingham Palace are walkable. Consider a Thames Clipper for river views.
🎟️ Tour Tickets Sell Out
Book Big Ben tower tours MONTHS in advance; they sell out quickly!
🧥 Weather Preparedness
Tours can be cold and windy at the top. Dress in layers and be prepared for the elements.
📸 Classic London Shots
Parliament Square offers great photo ops with red phone boxes and Big Ben.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Big Ben is universally recognized as a must-see London icon, with visitors praising its grandeur and the iconic views it offers. While external viewing is free and accessible, the limited availability and demanding nature of internal tours are frequently mentioned drawbacks. Many recommend specific photo spots and alternative ways to experience the landmark.
"Big Ben is one of those spots that’s just a must-see in London. You've probably seen a million pictures of it, but it’s so much more impressive in person. The sheer size and detailed architecture of the Elizabeth Tower (which is the actual name of the clock tower, with Big Ben being the huge bell inside) are really cool.
The best part is hearing the chimes. They're powerful and you can feel the sound resonating through the air. You don't have to pay for a tour to enjoy the view or hear the bells. Just walking by and taking it all in is a great experience.
If you're interested in a deeper dive, you can take a guided tour of the tower. Just be aware, it's a serious climb—334 steps, no lift! It's not for everyone, but if you're up for it, you get to see the inner workings of the clock and stand right next to the bells as they chime. They do provide ear protection, which is a good idea.
Overall, it's a landmark for a reason. Whether you're just snapping a photo from the outside or you manage to get a tour ticket, it’s a memorable part of any trip to London."
Connor
"Standing on Westminster Bridge offers one of the most iconic and breathtaking views in all of London. It's a place where history, politics, and stunning architecture converge, creating a moment that feels both grand and deeply personal. A visit here, especially on a clear day, provides an unforgettable perspective of the city's most famous landmarks.
The first thing that captivates you is, without a doubt, the magnificent Palace of Westminster. From the bridge, you get a full, head-on view of the intricate Gothic Revival facade. The detail in the stone carvings and towers is incredible, and you can truly appreciate its scale and beauty. It’s a powerful symbol of British government and a marvel of Victorian architecture.
Right next to it, the star of the show for many, is the Elizabeth Tower, more commonly known as Big Ben. The clock tower stands tall and proud, and from the bridge, you get an excellent view of its famous clock face. Hearing the chimes, whether on the hour or the quarter, is a truly magical experience that connects you to the city's rhythm. After its recent restoration, Big Ben looks better than ever, with its gleaming clock faces and beautifully restored stonework.
The view is a 360-degree panorama. Looking across the river, you see the modern, futuristic shape of the London Eye and the lively South Bank, a stark contrast to the historic feel of Westminster. The bridge itself is a piece of art, with its green cast-iron arches and intricate details that frame your view perfectly. The constant flow of red double-decker buses, black cabs, and people adds to the lively atmosphere.
In conclusion, visiting Westminster Bridge to see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament is an essential London experience. It's the perfect spot for photos and a moment to simply stop and take in the heart of the city. The view is dynamic, beautiful, and a perfect representation of London's unique blend of old and new."
Abhi Kabrawala
"Big Ben is great! The clock tower is hard to get to. We used GoldenTours, which is a company that takes you around London and shows you the various landmarks. The cruise ship which is included with it, takes you on the River Thames creating an amazing experience! I got to see the clock tower and even went right next to it when on the bus. It's very different. It makes it seem bigger when you're close to it. At two o'clock it made a sound. You could hear the bells from inside the clock! This also happened at five o'clock. It occurs every hour and it is definitely easier to hear it then see it! If you're going to London, you have to visit this, as it is one of the main landmarks of the capital city!"
Aayan Toys & Gaming
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The closest Tube station is Westminster (Jubilee, District, and Circle lines). Many bus routes also stop nearby. Walking from other central London attractions is also a popular option.
Yes, Big Ben is very accessible by London's extensive public transport network, including the Tube and numerous bus lines.
Absolutely! Big Ben is centrally located. Many visitors walk from Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, or along the South Bank of the Thames.
A Thames Clipper river cruise offers fantastic views of Big Ben and other landmarks without the crowds. Walking around Westminster is also enjoyable for families.
Yes! Try walking through the tunnel found by turning right at the bottom of the steps on the other side of Westminster Bridge for a unique perspective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, but tours are limited and must be booked months in advance through the official Parliament website. Be prepared for many stairs!
Viewing Big Ben from the outside is free. Tours inside the Elizabeth Tower have a fee, and tickets are highly sought after.
The Elizabeth Tower is not open for general public viewing outside of pre-booked tours. The exterior can be viewed at any time.
Yes, booking tickets months in advance is essential as they sell out very quickly.
The tour involves climbing 334 steps to the belfry and clock room. It's recently renovated, not 'dodgy,' but can be cold and windy at the top.
📸 📸 Photography
Westminster Bridge offers classic views. For a unique angle, explore the tunnel accessible from the bridge. Parliament Square also provides good vantage points.
Yes, Big Ben is beautifully illuminated at night. Westminster Bridge and the South Bank of the Thames offer stunning evening photo opportunities.
For daytime, a standard aperture like f/8 will ensure sharpness. For low light or night shots, use a tripod and a longer exposure, adjusting ISO as needed.
Yes, the Golden Jubilee Bridge offers a nice panoramic view that can include both Big Ben and the London Eye.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography may require permits. Always be mindful of your surroundings and other visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Westminster area has many dining options, from traditional pubs to cafes and restaurants. Consider pubs like The Red Lion for good food.
Pubs in the Westminster area often serve classic British fare. The Red Lion is recommended for surprisingly good pub food.
While dining directly opposite Big Ben can be pricey, exploring side streets or heading towards Waterloo can offer more affordable cafes and eateries.
For a classic 'greasy spoon' breakfast experience, the Regency Cafe is a popular, albeit slightly further, option.
The Anchor & Hope gastropub or exploring the eateries on Lower Marsh Street offer more unique culinary experiences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Elizabeth Tower
While the exterior is what most visitors see, the interior tour offers a unique glimpse into the tower's mechanics and history. The climb involves 334 steps, leading to the belfry and clock room. Recent renovations have modernized parts of the access, but it remains a physically demanding experience.
It's important to note that the name 'Big Ben' technically refers to the Great Bell within the tower, not the tower itself or the clock. However, the nickname has become universally associated with the entire structure.
Capturing the Perfect Big Ben Shot
For a more unique perspective, try exploring the area around the bridge. One popular tip involves walking through a tunnel found by turning right at the bottom of the steps on the other side of Westminster Bridge. This offers a less obstructed view and a different angle. Parliament Square also provides excellent photo opportunities, especially with the classic red telephone boxes adding to the quintessential London feel.
Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for beautiful lighting. Evenings are also magical, as the Elizabeth Tower is beautifully illuminated, offering a dramatic backdrop against the night sky.
Experiencing Big Ben with Family
A fantastic alternative for families is a Thames Clipper river cruise. This allows you to see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from the water, offering uninterrupted views and a relaxing way to sightsee without the hustle of crowded streets. Many cruises pass directly by the landmark, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Exploring the exterior around Westminster Bridge and Parliament Square is also enjoyable for kids. The open spaces allow them to move around, and the sheer scale of the buildings is often awe-inspiring for younger visitors. Consider combining this with a visit to the nearby London Eye for a full day of iconic sights.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit