Nestled along the banks of the River Thames, the Palace of Westminster stands as an enduring symbol of British governance and history. Often referred to as the Houses of Parliament, this Gothic masterpiece is not just a working government building but a treasure trove of stories, architecture, and tradition. For visitors to London—and fans of the British monarchy and its intertwined political legacy—it’s an unmissable stop to complement your Buckingham Palace experience.
A Historical Overview
The origins of the Palace of Westminster date back over a millennium, with Westminster Hall, constructed in 1097 under William II, being its oldest surviving structure. Once the largest hall in Europe, its breathtaking hammer-beam roof remains a testament to medieval craftsmanship. The palace served as a royal residence until a devastating fire in 1834 reduced much of it to ashes. From the ashes rose the current neo-Gothic structure, designed by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Welby Pugin, completed in 1870 after decades of reconstruction. Today, it houses the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the two chambers where the UK’s laws are debated and shaped.
Architectural splendor
Beyond its political role, the Palace of Westminster dazzles with its architectural splendor. The iconic Elizabeth Tower—home to the world-famous Big Ben (the nickname for the Great Bell inside)—pierces the London skyline, while intricate details like stained glass windows, ornate tiles, and statues of historic figures adorn its interiors. Visitors can marvel at Westminster Hall’s grandeur, explore the Central Lobby’s mosaic-covered vault, or imagine the debates that have echoed through the Commons and Lords chambers for centuries.
Connection to the Monarchy
For those intrigued by the British monarchy, the palace’s connection to the Crown is profound. The State Opening of Parliament, a ceremonial highlight, sees the Sovereign travel from Buckingham Palace to the Palace of Westminster to deliver the King’s Speech from the throne in the House of Lords. This annual event underscores the deep ties between the monarchy and the democratic process, making a visit here a perfect companion to your royal journey.
Whether you’re drawn by its history, its architectural beauty, or its role in modern governance, the Palace of Westminster offers a unique glimpse into the UK’s past and present. Plan your visit to witness where decisions that shaped a nation—and influenced the world—continue to unfold.
Visitor Information
To make the most of your visit to the Palace of Westminster, consider the following tips:
- Tickets: It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance online. This can help you avoid long queues and ensure entry at your preferred time.
- Multimedia Tours: £26 for adults, £19 for young people (16–24), £9 per child (5–15, first child free with an adult), free for under-5s (ticket required).
- Guided Tours: £33 for adults, £27 for young people (16–24), £17 for children (5–15).
- Elizabeth Tower Tours: £25 for adults, £10 for children (11–17, currently limited due to ongoing restoration).
- Public gallery: UK residents can request free guided tours through their MP. Public gallery access to debates, including Prime Minister’s Questions, is free but requires queuing and, for PMQs, advance tickets for UK residents.
- Opening Hours: HTour availability depends on parliamentary sessions:
- Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (year-round).
- Weekdays: Available during summer recess (typically July–September) and select non-sitting days, 9:00 AM – 4:15 PM.
- Public Galleries: Open when Parliament is in session (e.g., Mondays 2:30 PM – 10:30 PM, Wednesdays 11:30 AM – 7:30 PM; check parliament.uk for exact schedules). The palace is closed to visitors on Sundays and public holidays.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours, lasting 90 minutes, are led by expert guides and cover Westminster Hall, the Commons and Lords chambers, and key state rooms. Multimedia tours, also 90 minutes, offer a self-paced experience with audio guides in multiple languages (English, French, German, Spanish, etc.), including a family version for ages 7–12 and a British Sign Language option. Tours operate on Saturdays and during parliamentary recesses, with booking recommended due to high demand.
- Accessibility: The Palace of Westminster is committed to inclusivity. Most areas, including Westminster Hall and the chambers, are wheelchair-accessible via ramps and lifts (an alternative route avoids steps in St Stephen’s Hall). Accessible toilets and a Changing Places facility with a hoist are available. Audio tours include subtitles and sign language options, and visitor assistants are on hand to assist. Essential companions for disabled visitors enter free with a ticket. For more details, visit parliament.uk/accessibility.
