Big Ben is a famous clock tower in central Westminster, London. It's a well-known attraction that can be challenging to visit if you're not from Britain. Dear Lykkers, if you're thinking about going, this brief guide on how to visit Big Ben will give you an idea of what to expect.
According to Britannica, the tower was originally called St. Stephen's Tower. It was renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor the Queen’s 60th Jubilee.
<h3> Access:</h3>
Big Ben underwent extensive restoration from 2017 to 2023. The Great Bell, known as Big Ben, has just been repaired. The clock tower, Elizabeth Tower, recently had its scaffolding removed and is now ready to shine in your photos.
Previously, only UK residents could tour Big Ben. But there's good news! Now, both UK residents and international visitors aged 11 and older are welcome to experience the magnificence of Big Ben.
Here are some important things to know before your visit:
1. Be prepared for a climb of 334 steps to reach the top!
2. Wear comfortable shoes.
3. Be ready for varying weather conditions as you ascend to a height of 62 meters.
4. Expect high noise levels from the clock mechanism and bells.
5. Remember, no eating or drinking is allowed inside the Elizabeth Tower, so make sure to hydrate beforehand.
6. The closest metro stations to Big Ben are Westminster Station and Waterloo Station, both within walking distance.
<h3> Tickets:</h3>
Tickets are released every second Wednesday of the month at 10:00 am local time.
Tour tickets cost £30 for adults and £15 for children aged 11-17.
UK residents can obtain a free tour by contacting a Member of the House of Commons or House of Lords.
Each person can book up to eight tickets, subject to availability.
<h3> How Long To Spend At Big Ben</h3>
In total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes for your visit to Big Ben, which includes the 90-minute tour duration. This extra time gives you enough for necessary preparations before the tour starts and ensures you can fully enjoy the experience.
<b>Pro tip:</b> For excellent views of Big Ben, stand anywhere on Westminster Bridge. For an even better view, stand near the statue of Queen Boadicea at the base of Westminster Bridge, close to Westminster tube station. From there, you'll have unobstructed views of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben just across the road.
<h3> What To See At Big Ben</h3>
1. The Great Bell, commonly known as Big Ben.
2. Four smaller bells housed within the Clock Tower.
3. The Clock Tower itself, officially named the Elizabeth Tower.
<h3>Facts And History Of Big Ben </h3>
Here are some interesting facts about Big Ben from the official Parliament website that highlight the remarkable aspects of this iconic timekeeping monument:
1. Constructed in 1848 during the Victorian era, Big Ben stands tall as a testament to that period.
2. The Great Bell (Big Ben) weighs a hefty 13.76 tons, while the tower itself reaches a height of 96 meters.
3. Climbing the clock tower involves ascending 399 steps, so visitors are advised to be physically fit for the climb.
4. Precision in the chiming of Big Ben is maintained by carefully placing pennies on the bell's pendulum.
5. In addition to Big Ben, there are four smaller bells housed within the clock tower.
6. The origin of the name "Big Ben" remains uncertain, with some attributing it to Benjamin Caunt, a renowned 19th-century heavyweight boxer nicknamed Big Ben.
7. While not as pronounced as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Big Ben leans slightly by approximately 4 degrees.
These facts illustrate the fascinating history and enduring legacy of Big Ben as a symbol of timekeeping and resilience.
Lykkers, after exploring the rich history and practical tips for visiting Big Ben, we hope you're inspired to experience this iconic landmark firsthand.
Now, We'd love to hear from you! What aspect of Big Ben interests you the most? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let's continue celebrating the enduring allure of this timeless symbol.
