Big Ben
Iconic British clock tower
Category

Sightseeing

Message from Kate Kerr

Big Ben, also known as the Great Bell of the clock tower at the Palace of Westminster in London, is a famous British icon. Designed by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin in a Gothic Revival style, it stands 316 feet tall with a square base and impressive stone carvings. The clock's mechanism was designed by Edmund Beckett Denison and George Airy, making it the largest and most accurate striking clock in the world when completed in 1859. The bell was originally intended to be named 'Victoria' in honour of Queen Victoria, but was eventually given the nickname "Big Ben" after an MP made the suggestion during a parliamentary debate. Officially renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012, Big Ben is a symbol of the UK and parliamentary democracy, often seen in movies, set in London. Big Ben remains one of London's most iconic landmarks and a symbol of British culture and history.

Things to Do Nearby

Big Ben
Big Ben
Houses of Parliament
Houses of Parliament
Westminster Abbey
Churchill War Rooms
Churchill War Rooms
The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London
lastminute.com London Eye
Corinthia London
The London Dungeon
The Clermont London, Charing Cross
Trafalgar Square
Park Plaza County Hall London
Gouqi | Fine Dining Chinese Restaurant in London
Ochre Restaurant
The National Gallery
Brigit's Bakery & Afternoon Tea Bus Tours
National Portrait Gallery

Looking for things to do?

Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.

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