This guided tour of the Elizabeth Tower takes you up a narrow 334-step spiral stairwell to the belfry where Big Ben, the Great Bell, hangs. Along the route, your guide will reveal details of the most extensive and complex conservation project in the Tower’s history.

The official Big Ben page for UK Parliament. Discover the latest news about the Elizabeth Tower conservation project, and fascinating facts and history about iconic Big Ben, probably the world's most famous clock.

The famous bell is a cultural icon around the world and these popular tours offer visitors the chance to see (and hear) how Big Ben works, up close. This fully guided tour takes you up the narrow 334-step spiral stairwell of the Elizabeth Tower to the Belfry where Big Ben hangs.

What will I see on my Big Ben tour? On your visit, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to hear more about the recent conservation project and the history of the Tower, as you climb 334 steps from the bottom of the Tower to the belfry. Highlights of the tour include: the spiral staircase the exhibition spaces the clock mechanism room

All UK-based and international visitors aged 11 and over are welcome on a Big Ben tour. We do our best to help everyone participate in the tour, however it should be noted that the tour is not suitable for all visitors.

Visitors should arrive no later than 30 minutes before the start of their tour, and we are unable to provide a refund or exchange if you arrive after this time. Upon entering Westminster Hall you will be directed to the tour meeting point. Your visit will last 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Discover Big Ben's historic story in words and images. It's a rich tale of drama, intrigue and politics.

Climb 334 steps to the Belfry where Big Ben lives. See the inner workings of the clock mechanism and stand alongside the bell as it strikes the hour!

Discover how and why the Elizabeth Tower, the Great Clock and the Great Bell, Big Ben, were built

On this preview tour you will see the inner workings of the clock mechanism, stand next to the world-famous Big Ben as it strikes the hour and step behind the dials, each spanning 6.9m in diameter. You are also welcome to explore the medieval Westminster Hall after your visit to the Elizabeth Tower.