Visiting Big Ben: What You Need to Know

Big Ben vs. the Elizabeth Tower

Many visitors are surprised to learn that Big Ben is actually the nickname of the great bell inside the clock tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. The tower itself was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

Is It a Tourist Destination?

The Elizabeth Tower is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and a major tourist attraction. However, access to the interior (including the clock mechanism and the bell) is limited. UK residents can arrange tours through their Member of Parliament; overseas visitors cannot currently enter the tower, though they can admire it from the outside and hear the famous chimes.

Visitor Numbers

Exact annual visitor figures for the tower are not publicly released, but the surrounding Westminster area draws millions of tourists each year. The tower’s silhouette and its hourly strikes make it a must‑see symbol of London.

Practical Tips

• Best views: Westminster Bridge, Parliament Square, or the South Bank.
• Photography: The tower is beautifully illuminated at night.
• Nearby attractions: Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye.