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Houses of Parliament
The elaborate Palace of Westminster is home to the House of Commons and House of Lords. Come see the political life of the UK.
St Margaret's, 20 Dean's Yard, London SW1P 3PA, UK
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More information about Houses of Parliament
In the Palace of Westminster, as its official name is, the UK bicameral parliament meets. It is made up of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The original edifice was built in 11th century with Edward the Confessor being the initiator of constructing the palace. During the Middle Ages, it was a major residence of monarchs. However, in 1834, a fire broke out and most parts of the palace were destroyed. Afterwards, it was reconstructed and started to be used as the residence of the Parliament.
The style of its design can be called Perpendicular Gothic. It has three main towers. The tallest of them is the Victoria Tower, with a height of over 321ft (98 meters). The Elizabeth Tower, previously called Big Ben, is a bit shorter. The third one is the Central Tower. More than 1,100 rooms are in the palace! The most famous of them are Westminster Hall, Commons Chamber and the Queen’s Robing Room. The interiors are just splendid with all the decorations and furniture! The palace owns several collections of coins, medals, and archive materials. There are several parks and gardens around the Houses of Parliament. Victoria Tower Park is accessible to everybody.
Tthe Palace of Westminster is accessible to overseas tourists on Saturdays and during the Parliament summer break. Tickets can be booked online or by telephone. UK citizens can arrange tours via their Member of Parliament to enter the House of Commons or for their Lord to enter the House of Lords.
You can view the Palace of Westminster from either side of the River Thames. It is quite easy to get to. Get off the Underground at Westminster. There are also several bus stops around, such as Westminster, Parliament Square (stop TB) or Parliament Square (stop H). Keep your personal belongings close!
Opening Hours
Overseas visitors:
Sat 9.15 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.
27th July to 1st September: Mon to Sat 9.15 a.m. – 4.30 p.m.
UK residents:
Mon: 9 a.m. - noon
Tue, Wed: 9 a.m. - 9.55 a.m. (full tour) and 10.00 a.m.- noon (partial tour of
Lords only)
Fri: 3.30 p.m. - 5 p.m.
The guided tour lasts about 75 minutes.
Admission
Tours are free of charge for UK visitors if booked in advance.
For overseas visitors:
Adult: £16.50
Child (5-15 years): £6
Child (under 5): Free
Concessions (students, over 60s and members of the armed forces): £14
Contact
Phone: +44 (0)20 7219 4272
Houses of Parliament Pictures
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Attractions near to Houses of Parliament
Buckingham PalaceThe majestic palace is the official residence of British monarchs. A must-see – do not miss the Changing the Guard ceremony! |
Big BenOne of the main London landmarks. Clock Tower with 4 clock faces, a part of Westminster Palace. |
Westminster AbbeyA magnificent sight and an important commemoration site. More impressive from outside than within. |
Trafalgar SquareCould be called one of London's centres, with many cultural events taking place here. There's always something happening here. |
London EyeCome for a ride on Europe's largest Ferris wheel. The views from the top are simply fabulous, especially at night. |
Tower of LondonAlso known as Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress, the former prison complex is now home to the Crown Jewels. |
National Gallery LondonThe gallery holds a collection of over 2,600 pieces – no wonder it is one of the most visited in the world. Come here for classic art. |
Tower BridgeThis fascinating bridge is one of London's icons. The views from top are amazing and it's quite a sight to see the bridge open for ships, too. |
Piccadilly CircusA famous road junction crowned by the statue of „Eros“ in its middle. Also well-known for the electronic ads displayed on the buildings around. |
St. Paul's CathedralAn enormous white cathedral and London's highest point. Do not miss this famous sight with its elaborate interiors and crypts. |
