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Set your alarm: Timed-entrance tickets are released three months in advance, on the second Wednesday of every month at 10am (London time).
How Far in Advance to Book a Tour of Big Ben Tower in London
Updated February 2026
The Big Ben tour is one of the most exclusive and memorable experiences in London. Visitors climb the Elizabeth Tower at the Palace of Westminster to stand beside the famous Great Bell, commonly known as Big Ben, and learn about its history and mechanics. Because tours are limited, small group, and often sell out quickly, advance booking is absolutely essential.
At a Glance
How Early to Book:
When tickets are released 3 months ahead (see below)
3 months in advance, on the second Wednesday of every month at 10am (London time).
Ticket price:
£35 for adults
Where to Book:
Landmark Address:
How to Get to Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster
Big Ben is located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, directly next to the River Thames in central London.
The easiest way to reach the site is by London Underground. Westminster station on the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines exits directly beside Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. This is the most convenient and scenic arrival point.
Waterloo station is also within walking distance across Westminster Bridge. Several bus routes stop nearby, including lines 11, 24, 88, 148, and 211.
Because of its central location, Big Ben is within walking distance of the London Eye, Downing Street, St James’s Park, and Trafalgar Square.
Is a Tour of Big Ben Worth It?
The Big Ben tour allows visitors to climb 334 steps inside the Elizabeth Tower to see the Great Bell and the clock mechanism up close. Along the way, guides explain the history of the tower, the construction of the clock, and the engineering behind one of the most famous timepieces in the world.
Visitors pass through several historic rooms inside the tower, including the belfry where Big Ben hangs. The experience is guided and structured, with limited group sizes for safety and preservation reasons.
The tour does not include access to the main debating chambers of Parliament. It focuses specifically on the tower and clock. You can learn more about Parliament tours here.
What is the Big Ben Tour?
Security at the Palace of Westminster is strict. Visitors must pass through airport style security screening before entering.
You should arrive at least 20 to 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Late arrivals may not be admitted.
The tour involves climbing 334 steps with no elevator access. There are rest stops along the way, but the climb can be physically demanding. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended.
Photography is restricted in certain areas inside the tower.
A Brief History of Big Ben
Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower, though the name is commonly used to refer to the tower itself. The current tower was completed in 1859 after the original palace was destroyed by fire in 1834.
The clock mechanism was designed by Edmund Beckett Denison and built by Edward John Dent. It is renowned for its accuracy and distinctive chimes.
In 2012, the tower was officially renamed the Elizabeth Tower in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.
The current bell within the tower is the second cast (in 1858) after the first one cracked during testing. It measures 7 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 13.5 tons. The bell does not swing, but instead is struck by a mechanical hammer.
How Long Does the Big Ben Tour Last?
The Big Ben tour typically lasts about 90 minutes. This includes security screening, the guided climb, time near the bell, and the descent.
Because the experience is structured and guided, visitors should plan for a fixed schedule and allow additional time for arrival and departure.
If you are combining the tour with other attractions in Westminster, allow at least half a day for the area.
Accessibility Considerations
The Big Ben tour is not accessible for visitors with mobility impairments. There is no lift, and the 334 step climb is mandatory.
Visitors must be physically able to complete the ascent and descent. Those with certain medical conditions may be advised not to participate.
Accessible tours of other areas of the Palace of Westminster are available and may be a better option for some visitors.
Combining Your Big Ben Visit with Other Westminster Attractions
Because Big Ben is located in one of London’s most iconic areas, it is easy to combine the tour with nearby attractions.
The Palace of Westminster also offers separate guided tours of the House of Commons and House of Lords when Parliament is not sitting. These tours require separate tickets.
Westminster Abbey is located just a few minutes’ walk away and is another high demand attraction that benefits from advance booking. The London Eye, across the river, offers panoramic views that complement the experience of seeing the clock tower up close.
St James’s Park and the Thames riverfront provide scenic walking routes before or after your tour.
Final Tips for Embarking on Your Big Ben Tour
Check the official parliamentary website regularly for ticket releases. Be prepared to book immediately when new dates become available.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for climbing stairs. Arrive early to allow time for security screening.
Because this is one of the most limited access experiences in London, securing a ticket requires planning, but the chance to stand beside the Great Bell makes it a unique and memorable experience.
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