Big Ben
Build a trip to London
About
The Great Bell of the striking clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben is arguably the world's most famous timepiece and a global symbol of British democracy. Completed in 1859, this Gothic Revival masterpiece designed by Augustus Pugin has endured through World Wars and remains a pinnacle of Victorian engineering. Visitors are captivated by its ornate four-faced clock and the majestic chimes that resonate across the Thames. For the best sensory experience, stand on Westminster Bridge at the top of the hour to feel the vibrations of the bell. Expert recommendations suggest capturing photos from the south bank of the Thames near St Thomas' Hospital for a full-scale view. Note that internal tours must be booked months in advance and are only available to UK residents via their MP, but the exterior is best viewed at twilight when the clock faces are beautifully illuminated.
Highlights
- Famous Elizabeth Tower
- Iconic clock face
- Great Bell chimes
- Westminster Bridge views
Nearby Attractions
Westminster Abbey
A UNESCO World Heritage site with over a thousand years of history, Westminster Abbey is the coronation church of the British monarchy and the final resting place of 17 kings and queens, alongside giants like Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. The architecture is a breathtaking display of English Gothic style, featuring the intricate Henry VII Lady Chapel with its stunning fan-vaulted ceiling. The atmosphere inside is one of profound solemnity and artistic grandeur. Expert recommendations include visiting the Poets' Corner and the Royal Tombs. For a peaceful sensory experience, attend the Choral Evensong to hear the world-class choir in a liturgical setting. Pro tip: The Abbey is a working house of worship, so it is closed to tourists on Sundays; booking timed entry tickets online is essential to avoid massive queues.
Thames River
Cruising the Thames from Westminster Pier past the Houses of Parliament, the South Bank cultural quarter, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, the Shard, Tower Bridge opening its Victorian bascules, and HMS Belfast moored mid-river provides a two-hour panoramic survey of London's extraordinary architectural history from Mediaeval to postmodern in a single journey. The City Cruises service stopping at Embankment, Bankside, London Bridge, and Tower Piers allows hop-on-hop-off exploration of the South Bank's museums and attractions, while the evening dinner cruises with live jazz and three-course meals offer a romantic way to experience the river as it was meant to be seen—from the water—with the city's riverside illuminations creating a continuous spectacle. Tower Bridge's free exhibition inside the towers reveals the engineering genius of its 1894 design.
Casa do Frango
Located in a light-filled converted warehouse near Borough Market, Casa do Frango brings the flavors of the Algarve to London. The space is filled with greenery and rustic wooden furniture, creating a breezy, Mediterranean sensory experience. Expert recommendations: The 'Piri-Piri Chicken' (brushed with a secret sauce and grilled over charcoal) is the absolute must-order. Pair it with the 'African Rice' and the 'Batatas Fritas.' Pro tip: Don't miss the hidden speakeasy-style bar, 'The Green Room,' located within the restaurant for a post-dinner cocktail. It’s a very social, high-volume restaurant, making it great for groups. If you're visiting for lunch, they have excellent Portuguese pastries like 'Pastel de Nata' to finish your meal.
The Churchill War Rooms
Located deep beneath the streets of Westminster, this secret underground bunker served as the nerve center of the British government during World War II. Visitors can explore the Map Room, exactly as it was left in 1945, and Churchill’s personal bedroom. The atmosphere is tense and claustrophobic, giving a visceral sense of the pressure faced by those living and working here during the Blitz. Expert recommendations: Spend time in the interactive Churchill Museum section to hear recordings of his famous speeches. Pro tip: This is one of London's most popular attractions; booking a timed entry ticket well in advance is essential. It is located right next to St. James's Park, making it a great addition to a day spent in Westminster. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking through the tunnels.
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