Houses of Parliament & Big Ben Tours
27 Reviews
Few landmarks epitomize central London as perfectly as Big Ben, the iconic clock tower that stands at the east end of the Houses of Parliament. Heralding the location of Great Britain's political nucleus in Westminster, Big Ben—or the Elizabeth Tower, renamed in honor of the Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee—stands proud as a symbol of London and the striking centerpiece of the Thames waterfront. The Palace of Westminster, the home of the Houses of Parliament, is another historic monument, as behind the grand Gothic facade, politicians have dictated local laws since 1215, when King John's Magna Carta signified the birth of parliament in the United Kingdom.
The Basics
The Basics
The most exciting ways to see the UK Parliament and Big Ben's great clock face are from a capsule on the nearby London Eye Ferris wheel or on a Thames River cruise, both of which offer magnificent views of the 315-foot (96-meter) clock tower and the Neo-Gothic Palace of Westminster while allowing you to avoid the crowds that gather at Big Ben's base. The landmarks can be experienced at their most atmospheric on a night tour of London, when Big Ben is dramatically illuminated.
Travelers wanting to learn about British politics, with its complex system of monarchs, lords, and elected members of parliament, can arrange an official tour of the Houses of Parliament or even watch a debate from the public galleries. Big Ben, however, is only accessible to UK residents, who must request permission from their local member of parliament to visit. For everyone else, the clock tower is best admired from afar on a city tour that includes stops at other London attractions, such as Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to Big Ben
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are located on the north bank of the Thames River, easily accessible from the Westminster underground tube station, which is serviced by the Jubilee, Circle, and District lines. Alternatively, hop off at Waterloo station to wander along the vibrant South Bank past the London Eye, then walk across Westminster Bridge to Big Ben.
- Big Ben is visited on most half- and full-day tours of London, whether a walking, biking, or bus tour.
- Take 10 minutes to admire the statues of Parliament Square, all of which depict famous political figures.
- Guided tours of the Houses of Parliament run most Saturdays, and the public galleries are open when parliament is in sessionâtime your visit wisely to watch opposing political parties in fierce debate.
Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are located on the north bank of the Thames River, easily accessible from the Westminster underground tube station, which is serviced by the Jubilee, Circle, and District lines. Alternatively, hop off at Waterloo station to wander along the vibrant South Bank past the London Eye, then walk across Westminster Bridge to Big Ben.
When to Get There
Holiday travelers can join the crowds to watch London's legendary New Year's Eve fireworks, which take place right in front of Big Ben and ignite the sky in a riot of color. Ensure you book tickets for the firework display well in advance to avoid disappointment and guarantee an unforgettable evening.
Address: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, England
Hours: Daily when parliament is in session
Admission: £14-£16.50 (adults)
355 Tours and Activities to Experience Houses of Parliament & Big Ben
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Luxury ToursTour to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament in London
Get acquainted with two iconic London monuments on a half-day tour of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. While gaining fascinating insight into the royal history of Great Britain, absorb the Gothic grandeur of Westminster Abbey’s interior and head inside the Houses of Parliament—home to the renowned Big Ben—to see highlights like the House of Commons and Lord’s Chamber. From your guide, learn about the United Kingdom’s political system and major historic events while touring the prominent landmarks.
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- 2 to 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$72.68
Bus ToursBig Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Discover the grandeur of London aboard the open-top, double-decker Big Bus on this hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour. With your 1-, 2-, or 3-day ticket, design a personal itinerary with dozens of possible stops, including Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, St. Paul’s Cathedral and more. Enjoy unobstructed views and onboard commentary as you view the city’s highlights. Hop off to enjoy a free walking tour and a Thames River cruise.
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- 1 to 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
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$44.76
Half-day ToursSkip the Line into Houses of Parliament & Westminster Abbey Fully-Guided Tour
Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament are two of London’s highlight landmarks—and on this tour, you’ll have special access to both. Skip the line at Westminster Abbey and head inside the soaring church, where your guide will share facts about its royal history. Next, you’ll have the rare opportunity to explore parts of the interior of the Houses of Parliament, which is frequently off-limits to the public.
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- 3 hours 45 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$117.31
Cultural ToursBehind-the-Scenes Houses of Parliament Guided Tour
Step inside one of London's most iconic attractions on this behind-the-scenes tour of the Houses of Parliament. Meet your guide right in front of the UNESCO-listed attraction. Once inside, you’ll follow in royal footsteps, will visit both the House of Commons and the Lords Chamber, will admire artworks and architectural highlights, and more. As you go, your guide will share stories and facts about the landmark’s long history.
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- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$79.05
Full-day ToursLondon in One Day Sightseeing Tour Including Tower of London, Changing of the Guard with Optional London Eye Upgrade
Get to know London in one day on this sight-packed, full-day tour with a guide. Traveling by air-conditioned coach, see top London attractions such as Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and enjoy fast-track entry and a guided tour of St. Paul's Cathedral. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, and then visit the Tower of London. Break for a pub lunch, and receive a ticket for a Thames River sightseeing cruise to use after your tour or another day. For a bird's-eye view of the city, upgrade to include a ticket for the London Eye in the evening.
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- 9 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$133.88
Bus ToursThe Original Tour London: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
See the best of London without the stress of rigid tour times and massive crowds on this hop-on hop-off bus tour. With your flexible pass, hop aboard the double-decker, open-top bus for a comfortable sightseeing excursion. Great for kids and adults, your pass offers multiple route options with stops at main attractions like Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and more. Bonus features include a free city walking tour, a Thames River cruise, and local discounts.
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- 20 minutes to 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
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$44.63
Full-day ToursBest of London Including Tower of London, Changing of the Guard, with a Cream Tea or London Eye Upgrade
See the English capital’s top landmarks on this most comprehensive of London magical tours. Take a tour of beautiful St Paul’s Cathedral, then make a photo stop at Westminster Abbey. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and visit the Tower of London, where you'll have free time for lunch (own expense). Enjoy an extended river sightseeing cruise, and upgrade to cap everything with a London Eye flight or cream tea at Harrods.
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- 9 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$126.23
Wine Tasting & Winery ToursLondon Thames River Dinner Cruise
Take to the Thames for a sparkling river dinner sailing past London’s waterfront sights. Settle at your table to savor a delectable dinner and admire floodlit city sights such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and Big Ben as you eat and relax, and enjoy enchanting live entertainment.
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- 2 hours 45 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$103.50
Day CruisesLondon Eye River Cruise and Standard London Eye Ticket
Many of London’s top attractions lie along the Thames River. This boat tour cruises by most of them and includes a London Eye ride to see them from above. Get to know the city’s beating heart and great contrasts as you pass historic sites such as Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London as well as contemporary landmarks like the Tate Modern and Millennium Bridge. Then, ride the Lastminute.com London Eye for sweeping views of the city.
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- 40 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$42.08
Audio Guided ToursHistorical London Walking Tour in Westminster & Entry to Churchill War Rooms
Immerse yourself in the rich history of World War II on an enriching and emotionally stirring tour of London Westminster with a knowledgeable guide. Descend to the subterranean Churchill War Rooms, an underground network of bunkers that functioned as wartime offices, and enrich your knowledge of British history with commentary that covers little known facts. As you explore, see iconic London sights like the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, and delve into the life and work of former British prime minister, Winston Churchill.
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- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$75.23
Price varies by group size
Half-day ToursRoyal London Walking Tour: Early Access Tower of London & Changing of The Guard
Discover London’s royal history and sights on a London tour by foot and boat. Start with an early access visit to the Tower of London to see the opening ceremony and Crown Jewels without the usual daytime crowds. Then, take to the water on a half-hour River Thames sightseeing cruise. Stroll to Horse Guard’s Parade or Buckingham Palace to see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, and learn all about the British Royal Family from a knowledgeable local guide.
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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$100.73
Bus ToursLondon Night Sightseeing Tour
Experience the enchantment of London after hours on a night sightseeing tour. Aboard a double-decker bus, take a trip through the city to see illuminated attractions like Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Hear fascinating facts about passing sites and insider tips on where to visit in the bustling capital city from your expert guide.
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- 1 hour 30 minutes
From
$30.60
Hop-on Hop-off ToursThames Hop-On Hop-Off River Cruise
Discover the sights and history of London from the water on this leisurely cruise down the Thames River. With your 24-hour pass, enjoy unobstructed views of the city’s main riverside attractions like the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament from within an all-weather vessel, and hop on or off at any stop along the way. Create your own London adventure.
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- 1 hour
- Free Cancellation
From
$25.82
Full-day ToursLondon In a Day: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey & Changing of the Guard
Limited time in London doesn’t have to mean a limited view of the capital. Soak up the key sights in just one action-packed day on this guided small-group tour. Explore Westminster Abbey and watch the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace. Then cruise the Thames River to Tower Bridge and explore its inner workings before delving into British history at the Tower of London.
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- 8 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$169.59
Full-day ToursPrivate Custom Tour: London in a Day
Discover the spectacular sights of London according to your own personal itinerary on a private custom tour of the vibrant capital with a knowledgeable guide. Opt to enjoy a half- or full-day tour and customize your itinerary according to your cultural and historical interests. Allow your expert guide to pre-plan logistics like public transportation and reservations, and then delve into the capital’s rich history by listening to illuminating commentary. See iconic attractions like Big Ben and the Tower of London, and stray from the conventional tourist trail for a unique experience of London.
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- 7 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$158.28
Price varies by group size
Bus ToursGhost Bus Tour of London
Tangle with the macabre on a ghost bus tour through London. With your ghoulish guide, visit notorious local haunts (so to speak) of restless spirits, and pass chilling sites of murder, execution, and torture such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and the infamous Fleet Street. Hear fascinating facts about London’s gruesome past and make key stops at the city’s eeriest landmarks.
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- 1 hour 15 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$34.43
Day CruisesThames Lunch Cruise with 2-Course Meal
Partake in a unique sightseeing excursion on this delightful lunch cruise along the Thames River. See the best of London’s riverside attractions on a cruise from Tower Pier to Westminster. Stroll the deck, savor a delectable 2-course meal, and admire great views of the London Eye, the Tower of London and more. An onboard bar offers additional drink options for spicing up your afternoon (own expense).
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- 1 hour 30 minutes
From
$43.35
Half-day ToursPrivate Tour: Traditional Black Cab Tour of London's Hidden Treasures
Check off London’s most famous landmarks and lesser-known sights on this private, half-day tour. Travel around the English capital in an iconic black cab and pass by the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and other top attractions. Then, head off the beaten path in search of Henry VIII’s cowshed, Winston Churchill’s cigar chair, and other quirky sights.
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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$433.18
per group
Bus ToursVintage London Bus Tour Including Thames Cruise with Optional London Eye
See London’s signature sights by vintage Routemaster bus and Thames River cruise on this sightseeing tour. Board a retro, red double-decker bus London Routemaster, and enjoy stellar views of top London attractions including the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey. Then, after a short Thames sightseeing cruise, ride your London double-decker to Buckingham Palace for a photo stop or to witness the colorful Changing of the Guard ceremony. If you wish, upgrade to add a visit to the London Eye, Tower of London, or UNESCO-listed Stonehenge after your tour.
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- 3 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$43.35
Day CruisesLondon Thames River Lunch Cruise
Combine London’s riverside landmarks with a delicious meal on this lunchtime sightseeing cruise along the Thames River. Escape the city’s midday crowds, and relax as you admire the iconic sights ranged along the riverbanks. Enjoy stellar views of the London Eye, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and more; all as you savor a starter, main course and dessert freshly conjured up by the expert onboard chefs. A delightful way to spend lunchtime in London with family and friends or to celebrate a special occasion.
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- 1 hour 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$51.09
Half-day ToursLondon Vintage Bus Tour with Cream Tea at Harrods
Sightsee in London by vintage double-decker bus and modern catamaran on this half-day tour. As you travel around the city, watch out for top London landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Then, hop out for photos at the Tower of London before taking a cruise along the Thames River. Sparkling wine, cream tea, and scones at Harrods complete the experience.
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- 4 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$80.33
Bike & Mountain Bike ToursLondon Royal Parks Bike Tour including Hyde Park
Discover the beauty and history of Royal London by bike on a morning or afternoon city tour. Enjoy a guided ride through Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, and St. James's Park. Cruise by the stately monuments such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, and view royal sites like Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, and the Princess Diana Memorial. Along the way, learn about London’s rich history and contemporary culture.
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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$33.15
Day CruisesWestminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise
Glide by some of London’s must-see landmarks on a sightseeing cruise from Westminster to Greenwich on the Thames River. Step aboard your comfortable cruise boat at Westminster Pier and listen to the entertaining live commentary as you pass sights such as Shakespeare’s Globe, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. Drink in the views from the open or indoor deck, and at Greenwich, step ashore to visit attractions (own expense) such as the Cutty Sark or National Maritime Museum. Upgrade to include a return cruise back to Westminster.
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- 1 hour
- Free Cancellation
From
$17.35
Day CruisesRiver Thames Evening Cruise
Witness the enchantment of London at night on an evening cruise along the historic Thames River. Aboard the glass-encased boat, enjoy the city’s main attractions at dusk, including the Shard, Big Ben, and the HMS Belfast. Savor sparkling wine and canapés as you cruise the river and delight in the magic of London’s urban shoreline as night falls.
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- 2 hours
From
$36.98
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