June 2, 2025

Big Ben: Everything You Need to Know About London’s Iconic Landmark

It’s impossible to imagine modern London without the famous silhouette of Big Ben. Its photo decorates souvenirs and postcards, and the clock mechanism itself is recognized as a pride of the United Kingdom. This is not just a clock tower, but a true symbol of the country. Here’s everything a tourist dreaming of seeing it should know. And if you want to explore British traditions, choose tours to England and book hotels in London on TravelHub.

The History of Big Ben

Big Ben’s history begins in the 19th century. The idea to build the clock tower arose during the reconstruction of the Westminster Palace, which had burned down in a fire. Construction started in 1843 and was completed in 1859. The most famous feature of the building is the huge bell, weighing about 13 tons. This bell was named Big Ben, but over time the name became commonly used for the entire monument. The official name of the building since 2012 is the Elizabeth Tower.

Architecture and Features

Big Ben’s architecture attracts not only tourists but also Londoners themselves — it’s hard to pass the building without glancing at it. The Westminster Palace tower is designed in a neo-Gothic style. It stands about 96 meters tall, with clock faces approximately 7 meters in diameter. The structure is built from brick and stone with metal elements. Want to see it in person? Then be sure to book flights to the UK.

The most impressive feature is the clock’s gold-trimmed details, installed on all four sides. The huge blue numbers and hands are visible from afar, and thanks to its unique acoustics, the bell’s chimes carry for miles. Below the clock faces, there is a Latin inscription dedicated to Queen Victoria. Inside the tower are the clock mechanism and five bells in total.

Interesting Facts

  • One of the interesting facts about Big Ben is the slight tilt of the tower. While it’s not considered leaning, the building leans vertically by about 43 centimeters.
  • The Westminster clock ranks third in the world among four-faced chiming clocks in terms of size.
  • Legends surround the clock’s accuracy, but there have been exceptions in its chime patterns. For example, on July 27, 2012, the clock struck 30 times in three minutes to mark the start of the 30th Olympic Games.
  • Throughout history, there have been many brief interruptions when Big Ben’s clock stopped due to accidents, but only a few prolonged periods: renovations from 1983–1985, 2007, and 2017–2022.

Visits and Tours

Only UK citizens are allowed inside the tower. However, tourists can take tours of the Parliament building (book on the official website) and explore the surroundings of Big Ben. For group tour arrangements, use TravelHub.

Nearby Attractions

When visiting Big Ben, be sure to look around. The city center is home to many iconic London landmarks. Near the famous Westminster Palace tower, you’ll find Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, Parliament Square, Trafalgar Square, and Tower Bridge. Book a city sightseeing tour to see all the highlights in just a few hours. It’s also a great way to spend free time during business trip arrangements in the city.

How to Get to Big Ben

The easiest way is by subway. You need the Westminster station, accessible via the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines. Head above ground and walk toward the tower — it’s just a few minutes away. You can also take a bus; the stop is named the same and is located right by the palace.

A tip for tourists in London — buy an Oyster card and use it to pay for public transport. It’s valid on the subway, buses, trams, and some trains. This makes traveling in London more budget-friendly.

Big Ben in London is not just a clock, but a key element of English culture and history. Book a tour to the UK from Minsk on TravelHub to see the unique building and hear the famous bell with your own eyes and ears.

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