Landmark
Big Ben is technically the 13.7-tonne bell hanging inside the neo-Gothic Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, though the name is used the world over for the clock and tower alike. Completed in 1859 to Augustus Pugin's design, its four dials and hourly chimes have become the visual and audible shorthand for London itself, tolling through royal deaths, New Year's Eve broadcasts and wartime newsreels. With a 4.6 rating across nearly 100,000 reviews, it draws almost everyone who passes through Westminster, even though most visits amount to a look and a photo rather than an entry — the tower itself is only open to UK residents on a separate pre-booked tour. It suits a quick stop worked into a wider walk along the Thames rather than a dedicated outing.
✨ Reasons to go
💡 Good to know
⏱️ Typical visit
15 min
🕰️ Best time
early morning, early evening or evening
🚶 Walking intensity
Easy pace
What people say
"Seeing Big Ben in person was one of those rare moments that genuinely lived up to every expectation. Growing up, I had seen it countless times in television, and hearing its famous chimes literally gives you chills. Standing beneath it and seeing it up close for the first time was a completely different feeling. The architecture is absolutely breathtaking. Looking at the stonework, the sheer height of the tower and the incredible attention to detail, it’s hard to believe how magnificent it is in real life. The photos hardly do it justice honestly. From every angle, whether viewed from Westminster Bridge or along the River Thames, it dominates the skyline and instantly reminds you that you’re standing beside one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. What made the experience even more special was the atmosphere. The dramatic London sky, the historic surroundings of the Palace of Westminster, and the echo of the famous chimes create a sense of history and grandeur that is difficult to describe. There is something magical about hearing the clock ring while standing there and realizing you’re experiencing a landmark you’ve known about since childhood. If you’re visiting London, Big Ben is an absolute must-see. It’s more than just a clock tower! it’s a symbol of the city, a masterpiece of architecture and an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left."
— Thilina Samarathunga
