Overview

Hype:

Big Ben refers specifically to the Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower, though many people use the name to describe the entire clock tower itself. Located beside the River Thames, it has become one of London’s most photographed landmarks and a centerpiece of the city's historic skyline. The tower’s Gothic Revival design and the accuracy of its clock mechanism have contributed to its lasting fame.

Visitors to London often make Big Ben one of their first stops, especially since it sits next to other major attractions such as the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Although entry into the tower is restricted and typically only available to UK residents through special arrangements, the exterior view alone draws millions of tourists each year. The surrounding area is also well-suited for sightseeing walks and riverfront photos.

The tower has undergone various restoration projects, the most recent being a multi-year conservation effort completed in the early 2020s, revealing a refreshed façade and newly restored clock faces. Today, Big Ben continues to serve both as a functioning timekeeper and as a cultural icon deeply tied to British identity and global imagery.

Time:

Fees:

Recommended Ages:

	0-3
	4-11
	12-19
	20-49
	50-69
	70+

Recommended Months to Visit:

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Links: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Ben

Location

Closest City or Region: London, England

Coordinates: 51.500729, -0.124625

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June 21, 2025 Trip Report

By Jeremy Dye

Trip Members

Jeremy Dye, Tara Dye, Savannah Dye, Madilyn Dye, Cooper Dye,

Story

After Westminster, we took pictures of Big Ben then walked down to the river for better views. 

Pictures