Parliament Square and Whitehall London
Historic London square surrounded by iconic landmarks, home to statues of global leaders and a hub for protests.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Parliament Square and Whitehall London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic London square surrounded by iconic landmarks, home to statues of global leaders and a hub for protests.
"A must-visit for its iconic views and historical significance, though be prepared for crowds and potential demonstrations."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Find the K2 Telephone Box across from Parliament Square Garden for that iconic Big Ben backdrop.
🚶♀️ Walking Tour Hub
Start or end your Westminster walk here. Connects to Abbey, Parliament, and Whitehall.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Big Ben & Houses of Parliament View
Parliament Square
Capture that postcard-perfect shot of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. A must-see for any London visitor.
Statues of Global Leaders
Parliament Square
Stand among giants like Churchill, Gandhi, and Mandela. Reflect on their legacies in this historic setting.
Whitehall's Grand Thoroughfare
Whitehall
Walk down this historic street, a key route connecting Trafalgar Square to Parliament. See government buildings and ceremonial sites.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Be Prepared for Demonstrations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Find the K2 Telephone Box across from Parliament Square Garden for that iconic Big Ben backdrop.
🚶♀️ Walking Tour Hub
Start or end your Westminster walk here. Connects to Abbey, Parliament, and Whitehall.
📣 Be Aware of Protests
Demonstrations are common. Check local news to avoid disruption.
🚎 Thames Clipper Option
Consider a scenic boat trip along the Thames for a different perspective of the landmarks.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Find the K2 Telephone Box across from Parliament Square Garden for that iconic Big Ben backdrop.
🚶♀️ Walking Tour Hub
Start or end your Westminster walk here. Connects to Abbey, Parliament, and Whitehall.
📣 Be Aware of Protests
Demonstrations are common. Check local news to avoid disruption.
🚎 Thames Clipper Option
Consider a scenic boat trip along the Thames for a different perspective of the landmarks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Parliament Square is celebrated for its iconic landmarks, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and its collection of significant statues. Visitors appreciate its historical importance and central location for exploring Westminster. However, the area can become very crowded, and the frequent presence of protests can sometimes impact the visitor experience.
"Surrounded by some of London’s most iconic landmarks, Parliament Square Garden is a historic and lively public space in the heart of the city. With a clear view of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey, the square is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The statues of influential figures, including Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela, add to the historical significance of the area. A great place to take in the city’s atmosphere, appreciate its rich political history, and capture some memorable photos."
Ken Wong
"Parliament Square is a green space which sits opposite the Houses of Parliament in London. It is known as a meeting place for protest and celebration. Parliament Square is also the home to a number of notable statues of political figures (below is the list). The square itself is part of the Westminster Abbey and Parliament Square conservation area.
Winston Churchill – Prime Minister
David Lloyd George – Prime Minister
Jan Christian Smuts – Prime Minister of South Africa
Henry John Temple, 3rd Viscount Palmerston – Prime Minister
Edward Stanley, 14th Earl of Derby – Prime Minister
Millicent Garrett Fawcett – Suffragist
Benjamin Disraeli (1st Earl of Beaconsfield) – Prime Minister
Robert Peel – Prime Minister
Mahatma Gandhi – Campaigner for Indian Independence
Nelson Mandela – President of South Africa
Abraham Lincoln – President of the United States
George Canning – Prime Minister
It is central to many of London’s best-known landmarks, and is overlooked by official buildings from every side: Executive Offices in the North, Legislative in the East, the Church in the South, and Judiciary in the West."
Sanjay Gupta
"Exploring London's Iconic Landmarks At the heart of the city by the River Thames.
Parliament square is crowded with tourists and locals alike. It's nearly impossible to take a photo without someone strolling into the frame, but that's all part of its charm adding an authentic feel to your photographs.
Great photo opportunity of the majestic Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower), marvel at the historic Houses of Parliament, and enjoy a glimpse or take a spin on the London Eye with the city skyline. Strolling through the Square, we also saw statues of historic leaders.
Even a glimpse from the outside offers a timeless view of London's rich heritage. Must-visit iconic landmarks for anyone seeking inspiration, culture, and those perfect travel diary memories.
#LondonLandmarks #TravelDiaries"
Maria Matos Sequeira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parliament Square is easily accessible via London Underground. The nearest stations are Westminster (Jubilee, District, and Circle lines) and St. James's Park (District and Circle lines). Many bus routes also serve the area.
Yes, it's very walkable! It's a short stroll from Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Whitehall leads north towards Trafalgar Square, and the Mall leads to Buckingham Palace.
Driving in central London can be challenging due to traffic and congestion charges. Public transport is highly recommended. Limited parking may be available nearby, but it's often expensive.
A hop-on-hop-off bus can be convenient, but for a more immersive experience, consider walking or using the Thames Clipper for river views.
From Parliament Square, you can easily walk down Whitehall towards Trafalgar Square, or head towards Westminster Bridge for views of the South Bank and the London Eye.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Parliament Square itself is a public space and is free to enter. You do not need tickets to walk around the square and see the statues and exterior of the surrounding buildings.
Parliament Square is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor public area. However, the surrounding attractions like the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey have their own specific opening hours and require tickets for entry.
Yes, many walking tours of Westminster include Parliament Square, highlighting its historical significance and the statues. Some tours also focus on the political history of the area.
Parliament Square is directly adjacent to both the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. You can walk directly to their entrances from the square. Tickets are required for interior tours of both.
No, the statues of historical figures in Parliament Square are part of the public space and can be viewed freely without any entry fee.
📸 📸 Photography
The area directly opposite the Houses of Parliament offers the classic view of Big Ben. Look for the red K2 telephone box for an iconic shot.
Parliament Square can be very crowded, making it challenging to get unobstructed photos. Visiting early morning or late evening can help.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer people. Evening light can be beautiful, especially with the landmarks illuminated, but crowds may still be present.
Yes, you can take photos of protests, but be mindful of the situation and respect the privacy of individuals.
Generally, photography is allowed in the public square. However, be aware of any specific signage or restrictions around government buildings.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's famous for its proximity to iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, its statues of world leaders, and its role as a site for protests and national celebrations.
Parliament Square features statues of prominent figures including Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Abraham Lincoln, among others.
Absolutely. It's surrounded by buildings steeped in history and the statues represent key figures in British and world history.
The atmosphere can vary greatly. It's often bustling with tourists, but can also be a site of passionate public demonstrations.
Yes, there is a central garden area with lawns and pathways where visitors can sit and take a break.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that Parliament Square is a popular spot, so it can get crowded. Visiting early in the morning is often best to avoid the biggest crowds and allow children more space to explore.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To get the best shots, aim for early morning light to avoid crowds and capture softer illumination.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Political Enthusiasts
Consider joining a guided walking tour that focuses on the political history of Westminster. These tours often delve into the significance of the square, the surrounding buildings, and the historical events that have unfolded here.
+1 The area is also a living testament to democratic expression, as it frequently hosts demonstrations, providing a dynamic backdrop to its historical importance. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Political Heart of London
Walking through Parliament Square offers a tangible connection to centuries of British history. The statues dotted around the square honor influential figures who have shaped both the UK and the world. From Prime Ministers like Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George to global icons such as Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Abraham Lincoln, these monuments invite reflection on leadership and societal change.
For visitors, Parliament Square is a prime location for understanding London's political landscape and capturing iconic imagery. The unobstructed views of Big Ben (officially the Elizabeth Tower) are a major draw, making it a must-visit for photographers and tourists alike.
Navigating Whitehall and Beyond
The road itself is a significant part of London's ceremonial route, often featuring in royal processions and national celebrations. +1Whitehall serves as a crucial link between Parliament Square and Trafalgar Square, another major London landmark. This connection makes it a natural part of many walking tours, allowing visitors to seamlessly transition from the political heart of Westminster to the cultural and social hub of Trafalgar Square.
+2 The area is also adjacent to beautiful green spaces like Victoria Embankment Gardens, offering a pleasant contrast to the urban intensity. +1For those looking to experience London from a different perspective, the Thames Clipper river bus service offers a unique way to travel along the river, with stops near Whitehall providing excellent views of the landmarks from the water.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit