Houses of Parliament

Houses of Parliament showing a river or creek, an administrative building and heritage architecture
Houses of Parliament
Houses of Parliament which includes a city, night scenes and an administrative building
Houses of Parliament which includes mist or fog, a city and heritage architecture
Houses of Parliament which includes a river or creek, a monument and a bridge


Delve into British politics at this historic complex, the meeting place of the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

The Palace of Westminster, more commonly known as Houses of Parliament, is at the heart of U.K. politics. Take a self-guided audio tour or a guide-led tour to view the many remarkable sections, chief among them the Norman-era Westminster Hall and its hammer-beam roof.

The first palace was erected here in the 11th century, though only a few small sections of that structure survived a devastating fire in 1834. Embark on a tour to get inside the vast Westminster Hall, one of the oldest surviving sections of Parliament. Most of the rest of the palace is neo-Gothic in style and dates back to the mid-19th century.

Step inside the red-benched House of Lords, home to more than 750 peers who debate and vote on various matters. The tours also includes entry to the lower house, the House of Commons, where the 650 Members of Parliament elected by the British public sit.

Explore the Robing Room where the queen dons here ceremonial gear before entering the House of Lords. Look for the exquisite artworks by distinguished Scottish artist William Dyce that adorn this space. Tours also lead guests to the Royal Gallery, the Prince’s Chamber and the Members’ Lobby among other spaces. Finish your tour in style with afternoon tea in a riverside terrace for an additional fee.

To the north end of the complex is Elizabeth Tower, which contains the massive bell popularly known as Big Ben. Limited tours of the tower are available to U.K. residents only, so overseas visitors will have to make do with admiring the iconic structure from outside. Return to take photographs of Big Ben at night when the clock faces are illuminated.

Find the spectacular Westminster Abbey just west of the complex. This building is noted for its exceptional stained-glass windows and imposing Gothic architecture.

The Houses of Parliament are on the northern bank of the River Thames in the City of Westminster. To come here, ride the Tube to Westminster Station. Book and pay for your tour online in advance to ensure access.

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Things to do near Houses of Parliament

When visiting the Houses of Parliament, immerse yourself in the vibrant surroundings by enjoying nearby theatres, art galleries, and shopping venues. Enhance your experience with bus tours of London that offer a unique perspective on the city, or opt for an audio tour to delve into the rich history and architecture of this iconic landmark. These activities provide an excellent way to complement your visit to this significant site.

Shopping

For shopping near the Houses of Parliament, visit Harrods, Borough Market, and Brunswick Centre, all within 3.2km. Harrods offers luxury goods, Borough Market is perfect for fresh produce, and Brunswick Centre combines shopping and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, explore further afield for more options.

Recreation

The O2 Arena, a vibrant sports facility, offers an exhilarating atmosphere for fitness enthusiasts. Just a short distance away, the ABBA Arena provides a lively musical experience. For a tranquil retreat, Hampstead Heath invites you to unwind amidst nature, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station cable car, offering stunning views from 9.7km away. For climbing enthusiasts, Vertical Chill, located 1.3km away, provides a challenging indoor climbing experience. Alternatively, enjoy karting at Oasis Go-Kart Track, situated 3.2km away, for an adrenaline rush.

Nightlife

The nightlife around the Houses of Parliament is vibrant and diverse. Enjoy stunning views on the London Eye, delve into thrilling tales at the London Dungeon, or catch a romantic film at Cine Lumiere. Each venue offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for an unforgettable evening in London.

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

Find the best attractions near Houses of Parliament

While visiting the Houses of Parliament, you'll find a variety of attractions nearby, including charming streets, picturesque squares, and tranquil urban parks. These points of interest cater to travellers seeking a blend of culture, city life, and family-friendly experiences, making it an ideal destination for all. Explore the rich history and vibrant atmosphere surrounding this iconic landmark for a memorable outing in London.

  • Buckingham Palace: This iconic historic palace, located 1.1km from the Houses of Parliament, offers a glimpse into royal life. With its stunning architecture and the renowned Changing of the Guard ceremony, the palace exudes cultural significance and is a must-visit for any tourist.
  • Piccadilly Circus: Situated 1.3km away, this vibrant street is known for its neon lights and bustling atmosphere. A hub of entertainment and shopping, Piccadilly Circus captures the essence of city life in London, making it an exciting stop on your journey.
  • Big Ben: Just 161m from the Houses of Parliament, this iconic clock tower is synonymous with London. A symbol of British culture, Big Ben's impressive architecture and rich history provide a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

Best time to go to Houses of Parliament

The best time to visit Houses of Parliament can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Houses of Parliament falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Houses of Parliament 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 CloudyAverageSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Houses of Parliament

To save money during your visit to the Houses of Parliament, consider travelling in the quieter months of January to March when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or taking advantage of last-minute deals on Expedia can lead to significant savings. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are the most expensive. Additionally, using Expedia’s filters can help you find eco-friendly options and the best prices. Don’t forget to explore free activities in the area to make the most of your trip without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Houses of Parliament 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 Houses of Parliament 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 Houses of Parliament is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Houses of Parliament is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation for the Houses of Parliament with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

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