Ask someone to name London’s most iconic building, and they’re almost certain to say Big Ben. And in return, you can smugly point out that Big Ben is actually the name of the bell, and the building is called the Elizabeth Tower. But iconic as the building is (regardless of what you might call it), not many know that you can actually explore the inside of it on special Big Ben tours.
Following some pretty extensive repairs, in 2023 Big Ben (which had been silenced for 6 years) resumed its duty ‘bong’-ing out the hour, on the hour, from its perch above the Palace of Westminster. And as it returned to service, it also opened up for visitors to explore. Now, curious visitors can climb all the way to the top – but be ready for a LOT of stairs!
The Elizabeth Tower
Construction began on what would become the Elizabeth Tower back in 1843. This followed the construction of the new Palace of Westminster, following the original’s complete destruction in a fire in 1834. It was originally just called the Clock Tower.
Big Ben itself wasn’t built until 1856. Also known as the ‘Great Bell’ (after the Great Clock), it was plagued with issues such as cracks. The ‘Great Bell’s first strikes were heard in 1859.
The tower continued to be known as the Clock Tower (and colloquially as Big Ben) until 2012. That year, it was renamed the Elizabeth Tower to honour HM Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.
Big Ben tours
Clock fans, people named Ben, and others keen to see the inner workings of the tower can join 90-minute-long guided tours that take them up a whopping 334 stairs. These vertical treks take visitors all the way up to the Elizabeth Tower Belfry as the famous clock’s chimes sound around them. Along the way, visitors can check out the clock mechanism room, look behind the four clock dials , and see where the famous bell – the actual Big Ben – is located.
All visitors must be over 11 years of age. They also must be able and comfortable climbing the 334 stairs without aid.
There is also no photography allowed inside the Elizabeth Tower. You can, however, take photographs inside Westminster Hall before or after the tour.
Tickets for the Big Ben tours
Tickets are released in blocks throughout the year, 3 months in advance. As you can imagine, they sell out fast! But if you ever miss your chance, tickets are sometimes re-released to the public due to cancellations. So keep an eye on the booking page, where you’ll see all the available dates.
The next set of Big Ben tour tickets will be released on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 10am. These tickets will be for Big Ben tours in February. Tickets are released for further dates on the second Wednesday of every month at 10am.
🎟️ Adult tickets are £55, and children’s tickets for those aged 11-17 are £35 each.
📍 The Elizabeth Tower, London SW1A 2JR
🚇 The nearest station is Westminster.
Find out more and buy your ticket for the Big Ben tours here.
