London

England

United Kingdom

Europe

Big Ben and the Queen Elizabeth Clocktower stand majestically above the River Thames. They're among Britain's most iconic tourist attractions; every year, millions take snapshots of the tower and take tours in and around it.

Big Ben and the Queen Elizabeth Clocktower stand majestically above the River Thames. They're among Britain's most iconic tourist attractions; every year, millions take snapshots of the tower and take tours in and around it. The rich history of Big Ben and the beautiful area surrounding it makes for a must-go destination during any visit to England.
<h2>When's the Season?</h2>
Many travel destinations are especially suitable for one time of year or another. London has a mild, temperate climate with intermittent rainfall year-round, but the weather is relatively warm and dry during two periods. The first season is late March to early June, and the second is from September to November. Additionally, massive crowds gather to watch the final yearly countdown at midnight on New Year's Eve. Many regard these periods as the best occasions to visit Big Ben, but that also means they're the busiest times of the year.

[caption id="attachment_5780" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/547499548-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/547499548-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/547499548-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/547499548-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/547499548.jpg 1200w" alt="Big Ben and Westminster Bridge around sunset" width="1024" height="683" /> vwalakte / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Pick the Day and the Hour According to Your Preferences</h2>
The day of the week and time of day are important considerations for your visit, too. For instance, weekdays are much less busy than the weekend. Additionally, visitors to Big Ben peak around noon every day. By heading out in the morning or evening, you can dodge the largest crowds.

[caption id="attachment_31514" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/814671954.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/814671954.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/814671954-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Big Ben and Whitehall around peak hours" width="1200" height="800" /> _ultraforma_ / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Take a Trip Inside The Tower and the Houses of Parliament</h2>
In addition to the tours of the outside of the tower, it's possible to enter the clock tower. Once inside, you can take a free, timed tour and see the old bell. Depending on your timing, you might even be able to observe a House of Commons meeting. While anyone may enter the Houses of Parliament, entering the clocktower is a privilege reserved for UK residents. However, this includes some students and those staying on a longer visa in addition to citizens.

[caption id="attachment_31525" align="alignnone" width="3840"]<img class="size-full wp-image-31525" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/clever-visuals-HzntwCVX-vQ-unsplash-1.jpg" alt="Tried to get a different angle on the most photographed building in the uk." width="3840" height="2560" /> Photo by Clever Visuals on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>Night or Day?</h2>
Visiting during the night or the daytime makes for two distinct experiences that are both worth having. When you visit during the day, you can see the full detail of the clock tower structure. At night, the tower lights up makes for a stark, haunting sight above the River Thames. While visiting Big Ben during the day or the night makes for a different view, both are beautiful, impressive, and patently Instagrammable.

[caption id="attachment_31526" align="alignnone" width="3840"]<img class="size-full wp-image-31526" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/david-dibert-POYDluw0tyw-unsplash-1.jpg" alt="Bus near Houses of Parliament" width="3840" height="2560" /> Photo by David Dibert on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>How to Reach Big Ben?</h2>
London is well-served by a strong transit network. The metro offers a fairly quick trip to the Westminster station, which is only four minutes away. Eight different bus routes are viable; 12, 148, 717, 793, 7, 87, and 88 all stop within a minute's walk from Big Ben. Drivers will enjoy access to underground parking right across the street from the Houses of Parliament. Overall, Big Ben is a highly accessible destination, whether you prefer to take transit, a taxi, or drive.

[caption id="attachment_31527" align="alignnone" width="3840"]<img class="size-full wp-image-31527" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/nick-van-den-berg-f-vTaQRcxsc-unsplash-1.jpg" alt="the big ben" width="3840" height="2560" /> Photo by Nick van den Berg on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>Special Occasions to Plan Your Trip to Big Ben Around</h2>
Big Ben has been slated for a large refurbishment project from 2017 to 2021. For the duration of this period, the chiming of the bell is generally silent for the first time in over a century. However, the bell is scheduled to chime on special occasions throughout this period. To hear Big Ben ring out over London during a 2020 trip, you'll need to schedule it for one of several important holidays. For instance, Remembrance Day on November 11th, or the winter holiday celebrations from 9:00 on the 23rd of December through to New Years Day.

[caption id="attachment_31518" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/472099273.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/472099273.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/472099273-768x513.jpg 768w" alt="Big Ben during the New Years firework display" width="1200" height="801" /> oversnap / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Enjoy The Excellent Location</h2>
Big Ben is one incredible attraction surrounded by many. Westminster is one of the most famous, historic areas of London. During your trip to Big Ben, you should plan to visit the other destinations and enjoy the other experiences there. A scenic Thames River cruise makes for a blissful, relaxed afternoon during the warmer months of the year, and travelers may observe a service at the famous Westminster Abbey. There are countless museums and dedications to British history nearby to visit, such as the Churchill War Rooms.

[caption id="attachment_31519" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/952375942.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/952375942.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/952375942-768x432.jpg 768w" alt="The lively Thames River" width="1200" height="675" /> Daniel Lange / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Drop By One of London's Finest Eateries</h2>
You can easily find an excellent cafe, restaurant, or food cart in the area of Big Ben. Roux at Parliament Square provides a top-notch fine dining experience, and Quilon offers some of London's best Indian cuisine. The Nero Cafe is a beloved destination to pick up some tea or a cup of coffee, and there are dozens of street food joints in the area around Big Ben. From Mexican food at the Santana Grill to Chinese at Baozi Street Food, there's no end to the variety of international eating available. Whether you're looking to sit down or grab something to eat on a stroll down the Thames, you can enjoy world-class options without going out of your way.

[caption id="attachment_31520" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/843820560.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/843820560.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/843820560-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="The sort of delicious, international food you can easily find on your Big Ben trip" width="1200" height="800" /> VictorHuang / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Take a Tour of Big Ben and Westminster</h2>
While charting your own trip through Westminster can be rewarding, you can make the planning easier by taking a tour. A number of proven tour companies offer guided tours along carefully crafted routes. Many such tours dedicate time to Big Ben or even focus entirely on Big Ben. Depending on your preferred style of tour, you can explore on foot, or you can catch a ride in the iconic double-deck buses of London.

[caption id="attachment_31521" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/523626390.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/523626390.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/523626390-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="A beautiful shot of Big Ben during the afternoon" width="1200" height="800" /> sborisov / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Retire to Excellent Accommodations</h2>
Finding the right accommodations is an important part of any good trip. The London Marriott Hotel and Park Plaza Westminster Bridge are a pair of highly regarded hotels within easy walking distance from Big Ben. For a more sociable travel experience, you can mingle with fellow travelers at several nearby hostels. The London Waterloo Hostel is a popular choice that's fairly close to Big Ben, as is The Walrus Bar and Hostel.

[caption id="attachment_31522" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/505381630.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/505381630.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/505381630-768x515.jpg 768w" alt="The vibrant streets of London" width="1200" height="804" /> atlantic-kid / Getty Images[/caption]

Everything You Need to Know On Your Way to Big Ben

Once known as Londinium to the ancient Romans who founded it, the city of London is a leading global city and capital of the United Kingdom. Owing to its rich history and plethora of cultural attractions, London lures visitors from all around the globe.

Once known as Londinium to the ancient Romans who founded it, the city of London is a leading global city and capital of the United Kingdom. Owing to its rich history and plethora of cultural attractions, London lures visitors from all around the globe. Today, London is home to a diverse population of people and is viewed as a world cultural capital. This Thames-side metropolis has much to share in the way of world-class museums, restaurants, and shops.
<h2>1. Wave to the Guards at Buckingham Palace</h2>
No trip to London is complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace. Even if you just visit to come eye to eye with one of its famed guards, the palace continues to be one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. The palace itself dates to 1703 and contains a wealth of spectacular treasures. Be sure to check the palace schedule so you can book a tour of its staterooms when you’re in town. Some highlights of the tour include the breathtaking Ballroom and chandelier-strewn Throne Room.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/518030558-1024x683.jpg" alt="Buckingham london" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">FlairImages / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Explore the British Museum</h2>
The British Museum is a world-class venue that was founded in 1753. It is home to renowned collections of antiquities and art from all over the globe. When perusing this famous museum, keep a look out for some of its highlights like the Rosetta Stone or the Crouching Venus statue. Other must-see British Museum attractions include the Parthenon sculptures, mosaic of Christ, the Assyrian lion hunt reliefs, the bust of Ramesses the Great, and the Easter Island statue.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/481671872-1024x740.jpg" alt="london England" width="1024" height="740" /><span class="image-caption">claudiodivizia / Getty Images</span>
<h2>3. Take a Selfie at the Palace of Westminster</h2>
Home of Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster is easily one of London’s most recognizable architectural attractions. Located on the north bank of the Thames, the palace, also known as the House of Parliament, is where the House of Lords and House of Commons meet to govern the country. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace, along with Big Ben and Westminster Abby are must-see attractions when you visit London. You’ll want to have your smartphone charged so you can snap loads of pictures when you visit.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/547499548-1024x683.jpg" alt="UK london" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">vwalakte / Getty Images</span>
<h2>4. Tour the Tower of London</h2>
Constructed by William the Conqueror in 1078 (and expanded upon in later years), the renowned Tower of London is another of the city’s most iconic attractions. The historic castle served as a prison and fortress from 1100 to 1952. England’s Crown Jewels have been preserved in the Tower since the time of Henry III. Many visitors to London enjoy taking the colorful tours of the Tower to witness its historic features and to learn more about some of its famous prisoners like Anne, Boleyn, Elizabeth I, and Lady Jane Grey.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/155983878-1024x683.jpg" alt="tower london" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">sborisov / Getty Images</span>
<h2>5. Experience the Hustle and Bustle of Piccadilly Circus</h2>
A popular London meeting place, Piccadilly Circus is the portal to London’s West End. Locals and visitors alike head to this area to meet with friends, enjoy its restaurants, and clubs, or simply to people watch. Often compared to Times Square in New York City, Piccadilly Circus is one of the most vibrant settings in London.

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[caption id="attachment_26275" align="alignnone" width="2119"]<img class="size-full wp-image-26275" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/GettyImages-484256100.jpg" alt="Piccadilly Circus Long Exposure London" width="2119" height="1415" /> Edward_Thomas_Photography / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Take a Ride on the London Eye</h2>
Located on the banks of the River Thames, the London Eye is a giant Ferris Wheel that offers amazing views of the city for riders. Each year, nearly four million people visit this attraction. The structure opened in 2000 and, since then, has become a popular feature of the London skyline. If you can handle its great height (it’s 443 feet tall), be sure to take a ride to experience this quintessentially modern London thrill.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/957155460-1024x683.jpg" alt="London Eye london" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">GoranQ / Getty Images</span>
<h2>7. Stroll the Grounds of Hyde Park</h2>
Hyde Park is a royal park as well as one of the city’s largest green spaces. First established in 1536 by Henry VIII, the park has been the site of some of London’s most renowned events like The Great Exhibition that was featured there in 1851. The park is open throughout the year and often hosts major city events like outdoor concerts. The park contains many statues and installations of public art as well as enchanting botanical scenery.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/816185058-1024x683.jpg" alt="Hyde park london" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">irisphoto2 / Getty Images</span>
<h2>8. Cruise the Thames</h2>
The ancient River Thames is a London attraction all its own. Many different tour operators feature Thames River cruises. Be sure to book one so that you can witness the city’s great architectural marvels by boat. Tour operators will point out highlights like the Tower Bridge as you cruise. Some operators will even stop so you can enjoy a visit to a Thames-side pub for fish and chips.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/90898792-1024x683.jpg" alt="thames london" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">DavidCallan / Getty Images</span>
<h2>9. Take a Double-Decker Bus to Trafalgar Square</h2>
London’s double-decker buses are world famous. Take one from your London hotel to visit revered Trafalgar Square. The square is home to Nelson’s Column, one of the city’s most beloved landmarks. The monument celebrates Admiral Nelson, perhaps the most famous heroes of the British Navy. The square also features beautiful fountains and other historic statues.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/525609635-1024x672.jpg" alt="square london" width="1024" height="672" /><span class="image-caption">thaslam / Getty Images</span>
<h2>10. See a Play at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre</h2>
The original Globe Theatre, which dates to 1599, was destroyed by fire; however, the replica is a popular London attraction that celebrates the life of one of England’s most revered playwrights, William Shakespeare. The theatre offers performances of Shakespearian plays that include some of the best stage actors and actresses working in the UK today. When visiting, you’ll also want to tour this beloved attraction that has been created to look just as it did in Shakespeare’s time.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/104658136-1024x766.jpg" alt="globe theatre london" width="1024" height="766" /><span class="image-caption">LanceB / Getty Images</span>

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