The Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster is the political heart of the United Kingdom and the meeting place for the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

TravelCurious Tip

As one of London’s most popular attractions, it is worth arriving at the palace early to beat the crowds.

More commonly known as the Houses of Parliament, the Palace of Westminster is one of London’s most recognisable and visited attractions. Marked by Big Ben at its northern edge, and sitting across the water from the London Eye, the palace sits at the epicentre of London’s sightseeing scene, but also has a more profound importance for the nation as a whole, and is often referred to as “the heart of British politics”.


Medieval Beginnings

The Palace of Westminster has been the seat of the English government since the middle of the 11th century. When the two-house parliament was created in 1265, it was at first only the House of Lords which sat in the palace, and it was not until 1547 that the House of Commons moved here permanently, thus cementing the palace’s importance to the national government.


Out of the Ashes

A devastating 1834 fire destroyed most of the palace, and Sir Charles Barry was commissioned to draw up its replacement. The new structure took almost thirty years to complete, but Barry’s neo-Gothic design was widely admired, with his new clock tower, now known as Big Ben, being a particular favourite. The sharply-fluted formal structure particularly impressed Claude Monet, who painted a series of canvases of the palace in different lighting conditions.

If you’re interested in the Palace’s interior, there are several intriguing areas inside which are open to the public. Besides the debating chambers of the Lords and the Commons, you can explore the wonderfully historic Westminster Hall, one of the few parts of the palace to survive the fire, which has a stunning vaulted ceiling.


Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in London
Big Ben
Renamed "Elizabeth Tower" for the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II, the iconic Victorian clock tower of London, has become a symbol of the city itself.
Westminster Abbey
One of London's oldest and most magnificent churches, with a long-standing connection to the royal family.
Thames River Boat
A River Thames Boat Ride is one of the most picturesque ways to travel through London like a Londoner while enjoying amazing views of the most popular landmarks.
Thames River
The second longest river in the UK the Thames is an iconic piece of London culture. Don't be put off by its murky colour it is actually one of the cleanest metropolitan rivers in European.
Winston Churchill Statue
A bronze sculpture of the former British prime minister Winston Churchill located in Parliament Square.
Westminster Tube Station
The Westminster Tube Station is a subway station managed by the London Underground in the city of Westminster. The famous movie, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, recorded a scene at the Westminster Station.

Related Tours

Royal London: Private Half-Day Tour Including The Tower of London
Explore the home of the British Monarchy in the heart of the city and discover some of Royal London’s most popular landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster, and Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben), including a visit to the Tower of London and seeing the exquisite Crown Jewels. 

On your private half-day tour, you will:

  • Meet your professional Blue Badge tour guide to start your journey at the Tower of London, a 900-year-old historic castle and fortress;
  • Marvel at the magnificent Crown Jewels, some of the most important symbols of the Monarchy still used today by the Royal Family;
  • See stunning views of London’s most popular landmarks from the water including Tower BridgeSt. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye;
  • Enjoy a walking tour that will take you to Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Parliament and Big Ben;
  • End your tour in Trafalgar Square, where your guide will recommend other must-see sites you don't want to miss.

Your tour will begin at the Tower of London where you will explore this 900-year-old castle and learn about the kings and queens who lived and died in the Tower and its role as a fortress, prison, zoo, and observatory. 

Before entering the Jewel House to see the famous Crown Jewels collection, your guide will tell you all about their religious and cultural significance and the many attempts to steal these beautiful diamonds! Important: Your guide will be accompanying you through the visit but is not allowed to give live commentary while inside the collection.
 
After visiting the Tower of London, you will commute like a true Londoner on a water bus on the river Thames to Westminster Pier where you will see some of the most popular sights from the water along the way, including Tower Bridge and the London Eye.

Once in Westminster, you will see the Houses of Parliament - the home of the British government, and the magnificent Elizabeth Tower known as "Big Ben". A short walk on, you will come to the exterior of the beautiful Westminster Abbey, where every English king and queen for the last 1000 years has received their coronation, and where Prince William and Kate Middleton were married. 

Walk along the Mall and learn curious facts about British kings and queens, who turned the British Empire into the most dominant power on Earth. 

Your tour finishes in Trafalgar Square, where your guide will show you the best places to spend the rest of your time exploring, dining, and shopping.
London in a Day: Private Walking Tour including the London Eye
This full-day tour is the perfect way to see London's most iconic attractions in a day, making the most of your time in the English capital by the hand of a professional tour guide who will share local stories and the history of the city.

On your full-day walking tour, you will: 

  • Spend a day in London with a Blue Badge tour guide who will share the history behind the most popular landmarks and hidden gems;
  • Get access to the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey and take a ride in the London eye;
  • Visit the Tower of London and see the impressive Crown Jewels, while learning about the Line of Kings and the Royal Family;
  • Stop for lunch at one of the many options in the City of London;
  • Hop aboard a Thames river bus to see some of the best sites from the water, including St Paul’s Cathedral, the Globe Theatre, and Tower Bridge;
  • Explore one of the world’s most famous Gothic cathedrals, Westminster Abbey, and see the place where royal coronations take place;
  • Enjoy a walking tour of the city of Westminster, where you’ll see St James’s PalaceBuckingham Palace, the Horse Guards, the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben;
  • Conclude your tour at the London Eye, where your guide will give you Fast-track tickets to see the city of London from above.
Meet your guide at the Tower of London and explore one of the oldest buildings in the city where some of the greatest events in English history occurred. You will have the opportunity to admire the unmissable and stunning Crown Jewels which are kept here behind extensive security in the aptly-named Jewel House.

On leaving the Tower, travel to Westminster by river bus for a walking tour past some of London’s most famous buildings including St James’s Palace, Buckingham Palace, Horse Guards, the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben

Your full-day tour will continue in Westminster Abbey, London’s royal church, the site of 38 coronations and the venue for the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. You will learn about the Coronation ceremony and enjoy the beauty of this 800-year-old treasure. 

After a day in London filled with history, culture and visits to the most iconic landmarks, it's time for a relaxing ride on the London Eye, one of the world's biggest Ferris Wheels for spectacular views across London that you will enjoy with your group.


Please Note: timing of the itinerary, including lunch and Westminster Abbey, are subject to change
Royal London: Private Half-Day Tour with Changing of the Guard
Explore London’s most popular sites on this Royal London half-day tour, including spectacular parks, royal sites in Westminster.

On your private tour, you will, 

  • Experience the Changing of the Guard, one of the most popular attractions in the city.
  • Discover Whitehall and 10 Downing Street, the UK Prime Minister's office;
  • Walk by the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, an iconic symbol of London;
  • Hear fascinating British history and London's incredible past;
  • Walk around the Mall, St. James's Palace, and Horse Guards Parade;
  • Explore St James's Park, the oldest Royal Park created for sport-loving Henry VIII and a once-famous duelling venue;
  • See Buckingham Palace from the outside as you learn more about Royal History;
  • Finish your tour at Trafalgar Square, home to the iconic Nelson's Column, the National Gallery, and the National Portrait Gallery.

Please note: that the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, but can be subject to change and weather conditions. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays you will see the changing of the Horseguards at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall. 
The tour begins at 9:30 a.m. every day except Sunday when it begins at 9.15 a.m. 

On your tour, your guide will reveal the secrets of the power and politics of Westminster, while seeing some of the most popular landmarks. Learn all about the Houses of Parliament, the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom, and be inspired by its mighty history. 

Amble through the fabulous gardens and sights of St James's Park and have the opportunity to see the Changing of the Guard in front of magnificent Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837. 

This ceremony, seen by millions every year, is a must-see attraction in London. It takes place every other day between Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and Wellington Barracks, and is the perfect reminder of the tight relationship between the armed forces and HM the Queen.

Walk along the Mall and learn curious facts about British kings and queens, who turned the British Empire into the most dominant power on Earth. 

Your tour finishes with a walk through Trafalgar Square, where your guide will show you the best places to grab a bite to eat in the area or direct you to some of the world's most famous artwork, located only metres away in the National Gallery. 
Family-Friendly Royal London: Private Half-Day Tour & London Eye
Discover the most popular sites in Royal London on this family-friendly half-day tour, where you will see London’s unmissable attractions, parks, and finest Royal sites with an expert tour guide while keeping your family entertained. 

On this family-friendly private tour, you will:

  • Explore London with a tour guide handpicked for leading family-friendly tours;
  • Begin your journey at the Statue Of The Duke Of Wellington and walk under the famous Wellington Arch;
  • Admire the grandiosity of Buckingham Palace from the outside and discover the Victoria memorial;
  • Visit St. James's Park and see the Pelicans donated to King Charles II by a Russian ambassador during a visit in 1664;
  • See Diana Princess of Wales Memorial and St James's Palace;
  • Walk past Whitehall and 10 Downing St, UK's Prime Minister's office;
  • Enjoy a walking tour of Westminster, where you’ll see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey;
  • Finish your time enjoying panoramic views of the city from the London Eye, a family favourite!
This tour is ideal for those families who would like a taste of London in half a day and want to see London’s unmissable attractions and finest Royal sites in an exciting four hours. 

Whether your family is interested in history, nature, experiencing iconic British traditions or marvelling at beautiful Royal Palaces and Parks, this tour has something for everyone.

Get a peppering of tales, fun facts and stories about London, British Culture and tradition. Hear of the Secret tunnels which lie beneath Buckingham palace, and the many attempts to steal the Crown Jewels. And the infamous 14-year-old cat-burglar caught stealing the late Queen Victoria’s underwear. See London’s famous palace guards, the household cavalry mounted on their famous black horses, and maybe even members of the royal family, if you are lucky!

On this half-day tour, you will also avoid the rush and busyness of a group tour, and enjoy a more intimate, flexible experience. Your tour ends with an adventurous ride on the London Eye. 

Your personal guide will help you quickly navigate London and ensure you have the smoothest, most enjoyable day possible creating great memories with your family. 
The Best of Westminster: Private Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey
Discover the best of Westminster, and see some of London's unmissable attractions in a half-day tour including spectacular parks and royal sites with a Blue Badge tour guide. 

On your private tour, you will:

  • See Whitehall and 10 Downing Street, the Houses of ParliamentSomerset House and Big Ben;
  • Enjoy a privately guided tour of Westminster Abbey, where 38 coronations have taken place;
  • Learn about fascinating English historyBritish tradition and London's incredible past—from the plague and the great fire of London to the Blitz;
  • Hear stories as you visit the outside of Buckingham Palace, via the beautiful St James's Park and Trafalgar Square.
Reveal the secrets of power and politics on your exciting tour of Westminster, seeing some of the most recognisable landmarks. Learn all about the Houses of Parliament, the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom, and be inspired by its mighty history. 

Then, gain insight into the centuries-old Westminster Abbey (with entrance tickets included), the setting for every coronation since 1066, many royal weddings and the final resting place of 17 monarchs

Amble through the fabulous gardens and sights of St James's Park and admire the magnificent Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837. Walk along the Mall and learn curious facts about British kings and queens, who turned the British Empire into the most dominant power on Earth. 

Your tour finishes with a walk through Trafalgar Square, onto Covent Garden, where your guide will show you the best places to spend the rest of your time dining and shopping. 
The Heart of London: Classic Westminster Private 2-Hour Tour
Westminster is one of the most historic and well-known areas located in the heart of London. It has been home to many kings and queens, including Henry VIII and Elizabeth I and on this 2-hour private tour, you will have the chance to explore Westminster in all its glory.

On your private tour, you will:

  • Walk past Westminster Abbey where every British monarch since William the Conqueror has been crowned;
  • See Whitehall and 10 Downing Street,  where the prime minister lives and works;
  • Pass by the Houses of Parliament also known as the Palace of Westminster and the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom so that you can see Big Ben up close;
  • See Buckingham Palace, home to the British monarchy since 1837 and hear about British kings and queens who turned the British Empire into one of the most dominant powers in history;
  • Take a stroll via the beautiful St James's Park, the oldest Royal Park at the heart of ceremonial London and see St James's Palace;
  • Explore Trafalgar Square, where Nelson’s Column can be found in honour of Admiral Nelson, after his victory in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
  • End your tour at Covent Garden, a shopping and dining hub in London's West End.

If you want to discover the heart of London, come with us on this private tour!

This 2-hour trip will take you through some of the most famous and beautiful locations in Westminster, including Whitehall and 10 Downing Street, where all the British government happens. We'll also take you to the Houses of Parliament, the supreme legislative body of Great Britain, Somerset House and Big Ben for the perfect photo opportunity!

You'll hear stories about fascinating English history, British tradition and London's incredible past—from the plague and great fire of London to the Blitz, and the secrets of power and politics on our exciting tour of Westminster while you visit some of the most recognisable landmarks in London. 

You will also take a stroll down St James's Park through its fabulous gardens and sights before heading over to Buckingham Palace.

Your tour will end with a walk through Trafalgar Square to see Nelson's column onto Covent Garden where your guide will show you the best places to spend your time dining and shopping!
Discover Westminster in a London Black Cab: Private 2-hour Tour
Explore the hub of British politics, power, and royalty on this two-hour private driving tour of Westminster and Central London in an iconic London Black Cab. With your expert private driver-guide, you will see all of Westminster’s historic landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, and Westminster Abbey, as well as three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, two Tudor Palaces, and many others.

On your private tour you will:

  • See iconic sights including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the Palace of Westminster;
  • Marvel at the architectural wonders of St James' Palace, Westminster Cathedral, St Margaret's Church, and Westminster School;
  • Visit famous and lesser-known places including Downing Street, Central Methodist Hall, Banqueting House, Horse Guards, and the National Gallery;
  • Hear stories and scandals about Trafalgar Square, Nelson's Column, Marble Arch, Wellington Memorial, Lambeth Palace, the London Eye, and the River Thames;
  • End your tour with a drop-off at any preferred Central London location.

Discover the real history of power, politics, and monarchy in London on this express two-hour private tour of iconic London landmarks with an expert Cabbie who not only knows London like the back of their hand but is also a historian... with many royal and historic secrets to share with you!  

Whether you are interested in the British monarchy's royal palaces or the historic UK Parliament based at Westminster for over 1000 years, your expert guide is more than happy to spill all the gossip, alongside the history of any topic which may interest you. 

Hear about the Second World War, the Blitz and Churchill's magnificent speeches; or more historically Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot to blow up Parliament. Hear about King Charles I at Banqueting House, and his beheading at the Palace of Westminster. 

Learn about the secret tunnels beneath the streets of London used to protect the royals during turbulent times, and how democracy and Constitutional Monarchy work in the UK with the two Houses of Parliament: the House of Lords and the House of Commons. Find out about the drunken sailors that brought back the body of naval Hero Horatio Nelson, who stands proudly atop Nelson's column. 

Learn about the ancient coronation rituals that have been taking place at Westminster Abbey since William the Conqueror on Christmas Day 1066 up to the late Queen Elizabeth II in 1952 and King Charles III. Admire the awe-inspiring Gothic architecture of the Abbey that has stood the test of time for over 1000 years. 

Your guide is ready to discuss anything you throw their way - including filming locations for Harry Potter, James Bond, and Downton Abbey, among many others. In short, for any curiosity, you may have about London today and British history as a whole, you're in great hands! 
James Bond Live Virtual Tour
London has played host to some incredible Bond movie scenes over the past 55 years – and you can step in the footprints of 007 actors Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig with your own special agent.

You will see:

  • The National Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world that houses work spanning from the middle ages to the modern era.
  • Trafalgar Square, named after Britain’s most famous naval victory.
  • Horse Guards, 
  • Whitehall, dedicated to some of the greatest politicians and monarchs of the British Empire,
  • Downing Street, the home of some of the most important members of the British Government, including the Prime Minister himself.
  • Palace of Westminster, the meeting point for the two houses of Parliament,
  • Lambeth Bridge, a footbridge that connects Westminster with Lambeth palace,
  • Millbank, 
  • MI6, the headquarters of the secret service

James Bond fans not only get to see those movie scene sites - but also most of London's iconic landmarks.
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