Big Ben

Big Ben showing a city, a monument and a river or creek
Big Ben
Big Ben
Big Ben showing a city, a castle and heritage architecture
Big Ben featuring a city, heritage architecture and street scenes


One of London’s most resounding landmarks is a treasured emblem of England.

Catch a glimpse of Big Ben across the River Thames and you’ll know that you have truly arrived in London. Featured in British films, such as “Bridget Jones’s Diary”, “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually”, Big Ben is best viewed from the Thames’ east bank or while strolling along Westminster Bridge, en route to see the Houses of Parliament.

Big Ben was the name originally given to the largest of the clock tower’s bells. The Great Bell, as it is otherwise known, weighs 13 tons (13,760 kilograms). Listen for its deep knell as it strikes on the hour, pealing high across the rooftops and rush of London’s traffic. Nowadays, the name Big Ben is synonymous with the bells, the clock and the tower.

Since first sounding in July 1859, the clock’s reliability and reassuring chime have become a national symbol of British resilience. When the sun sets, its four ivory-tinted faces are illuminated so the clock can still be seen from miles away. The faces have only ever been dimmed in times of national crisis: for two years during World War I, to avoid German zeppelin attacks, and at night during World War II to disorient German Blitz pilots.

Completed in 1858, the clock tower was supposedly named after London’s Commissioner of Works, a large man called Benjamin Hall, affectionately known as 'Big Ben'. Designed by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin in classic Gothic Revivalist style, the brick and limestone tower rests atop Britain’s Houses of Parliament. The clock is the largest four-faced chiming clock in Great Britain. Each face is 23 feet (seven metres) in diameter and contains 312 pieces of opal glass.

Despite its status as a popular landmark, Big Ben only opens its doors to British citizens who can schedule a tour through their parliamentary representatives. Still, this exclusivity won’t stop it from giving you a little rush of excitement the first time that you see and hear it.

In June 2012, Big Ben was officially renamed Elizabeth Tower, in honour of Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond jubilee, but it is still known colloquially as Big Ben.

Big Ben is located in central London. The nearest Underground station is Waterloo.

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Things to do near Big Ben

When visiting Big Ben, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by exploring nearby theatres and art galleries. Indulge in some retail therapy with a variety of shopping options, and don't miss the chance to enjoy amusement rides in the vicinity. Whether you're admiring stunning artworks or enjoying a captivating performance, the area around Big Ben offers a delightful mix of activities to enhance your London experience.

Shopping

Near Big Ben, you can shop at Harrods for luxury gifts and Borough Market for unique food souvenirs, both 3.2km away. Additionally, Brunswick Centre offers a mix of entertainment and shopping, also 3.2km away. If you're up for a drive, explore more extensive options further afield.

Recreation

The O2 Arena, located 9.7km from Big Ben, buzzes with sports energy, perfect for adrenaline seekers. For music lovers, the ABBA Arena, 8.0km away, offers vibrant entertainment vibes. Alternatively, Hampstead Heath, also 8.0km distant, provides a peaceful retreat for wellness and relaxation amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station, a cable car gondola located 9.7km from Big Ben, offering breathtaking views. For climbing enthusiasts, Vertical Chill, situated 1.1km away, provides an exhilarating indoor climbing experience. Alternatively, enjoy karting excitement at Oasis Go-Kart Track, 3.2km from Big Ben.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Big Ben is vibrant and diverse. Enjoy breathtaking views on the London Eye, just 483m away. For a mix of culture and thrills, visit the London Dungeon, 322m away. Alternatively, catch a romantic film at Cine Lumiere, located 644m from the iconic clock tower.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Big Ben

Big Ben and its surroundings offer a delightful mix of attractions, including vibrant streets, charming piazzas, and tranquil urban parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in rich culture, enjoy family-friendly experiences, and soak up the city's lively atmosphere. Whether you're seeking historical insights or a leisurely stroll, there's something for every traveller to enjoy near this iconic landmark.

  • Buckingham Palace: Experience the grandeur of the official residence of the British monarch. Located 1.1km from Big Ben, this historic palace exudes cultural vibes, inviting visitors to admire its stunning architecture and the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony.
  • Piccadilly Circus: A vibrant hub of activity, Piccadilly Circus is located 1.3km from Big Ben. The bustling street is famous for its neon lights and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the city vibes.
  • Trafalgar Square: Situated 805m from Big Ben, Trafalgar Square is a cultural and social epicentre. This iconic piazza features the impressive Nelson's Column and offers a vibrant mix of culture and city life, often hosting events and exhibitions.

Best time to go to Big Ben

The best time to visit Big Ben can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Big Ben falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Big Ben falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Big Ben

To save money on your visit to Big Ben, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, ideally on a Sunday for the best rates, and explore last-minute deals on Expedia. Use their search tool to filter by budget and preferences, like Eco-certified stays. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights and hotel stays for further savings. Enjoy free activities around Westminster, and utilise public transport for cost-effective travel across London.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Big Ben are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Big Ben about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Big Ben is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Big Ben is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay near Big Ben with your flights and activities.

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