Visiting Big Ben: Costs and Access Information

Viewing the Elizabeth Tower (commonly called Big Ben) from the outside is free and accessible at any time from Parliament Square. However, entering the tower requires a pre-booked guided tour. As of the latest information, tickets for UK residents arranged through their MP cost £18 for adults and £10 for children (ages 5-15). These tours include the clock mechanism room, the belfry, and the Ayrton Light. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and involve climbing 334 spiral steps with no elevator access.

Overseas visitors cannot currently book these parliamentary tours. The tower underwent extensive conservation work from 2017 to 2022, and tour availability may vary. Always check the official UK Parliament website for the most current booking procedures, prices, and accessibility information before planning a visit.