Big Ben Tour Dates and Times

Big Ben tour

The next set of tickets will be released on Wednesday 8th May at 10:00. If the dates below are greyed out or you are prompted to enter a code to book, it means that the date selected is not available. Tickets are released on the second Wednesday of every month at 10:00.

This guided tour of the Elizabeth Tower takes you up a narrow 334-step spiral stairwell to the Belfry where Big Ben, the Great Bell, hangs. Along the route, your guide will reveal details of the most extensive and complex conservation project in the Tower’s history. This vital conservation work involved over 500 people from across the UK and their traditional crafts including stone masonry, glass blowing, gilding, plastering, cast iron and clock mechanics. 

On this tour you will see the inner workings of the clock mechanism, stand next to the world-famous Big Ben bell as it strikes the hour, and step behind the dials each spanning 6.9m in diameter. You are also welcome to explore medieval Westminster Hall after your visit to the Elizabeth Tower.

The Big Ben tour is not suitable for everyone. Visitors must be aged 11 and over and be comfortable climbing 334 steps unaided and able to sustain moderate physical exertion for up to 90 minutes. You will experience high noise levels from the clock mechanism and bells - ear defenders will be provided. The total tour duration is 90 minutes and toilet facilities are available at the beginning and end of the tour only. Due to the constraints of the Tower, accessible tours including step-free access are not currently available. Sign up to UK Parliament’s newsletter to hear about accessible tour options later in the year.  Please note that photography is not permitted inside the Elizabeth Tower due to security, health and safety and copyright reasons.

If you have any other questions, please contact visitparliament@parliament.uk or visit our website for more information