Visiting the iconic Big Ben London Clock Tower offers history buffs and architectural enthusiasts a rare glimpse into one of London’s most celebrated landmarks following its extensive restoration. The Elizabeth Tower, home to the famous Big Ben bell, reopened to the public in 2023 after a six-year conservation project, providing visitors with unparalleled access to its historic mechanisms and panoramic views of London’s skyline.
Key Takeaways
- Tours of Big Ben last 90 minutes and involve climbing 334 steps to reach the belfry
- The 10:45 AM tour allows visitors to witness the clock strike noon, creating an unforgettable experience
- Several luxury and budget accommodations are available within walking distance of the tower
- Dining options range from fine restaurants with landmark views to hidden culinary gems nearby
- Advance booking through the UK Parliament official website is essential for securing your tour spot
The Majestic Big Ben: What to Expect in 2025
After an extensive six-year conservation project (2017-2023), Big Ben London Clock Tower has been restored to its former glory. Located within the Elizabeth Tower, this historic landmark now welcomes visitors eager to explore its inner workings. The restoration focused on preserving the tower’s masonry and intricate ironwork, ensuring future generations can appreciate this iconic structure.
During your visit, you’ll gain access to the historic clock mechanism room, featuring three massive 13-ton gears that power the timepiece. The highlight for many visitors is the belfry, home to the 13.7-ton “Big Ben” bell that has marked time for Londoners since 1859. The conservation project has breathed new life into this iconic London attraction, making 2025 the perfect time to experience this marvel of Victorian engineering.
Essential Tour Information for Your Visit
Planning your Big Ben tour requires some preparation to ensure a smooth experience. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and include access to Westminster Hall either before or after your scheduled time. Be prepared for a climb of 334 steps to reach the belfry, though rest breaks are provided at key points throughout the ascent.
There are important requirements to note before booking:
- Visitors must be over 11 years old
- Everyone needs to be able to navigate stairs without assistance
- Airport-style security checks are mandatory
- Free lockers are provided for storing bags and cameras
- Photography is prohibited inside due to security and copyright restrictions
For the ultimate clock tower experience, book the 10:45 AM tour to witness the clock strike 12 times at midday. The powerful resonance of Big Ben’s chimes reverberating through the tower creates an unforgettable sensory experience that can’t be replicated anywhere else in London.
Insider Tips from Local Experts
Knowledgeable guides like Louise and Charlotte, frequently mentioned in visitor reviews, provide fascinating historical context throughout the tour. Their expertise brings to life the stories behind this iconic structure and details about the recent conservation efforts.
To make the most of your visit, wear comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing as the tower’s interior can be surprisingly warm. The spiral staircase features narrow steps requiring careful navigation, especially during descent. I recommend combining your Big Ben tour with free tours of the Houses of Parliament to maximize your Westminster experience.
Consider taking a 10-minute walk to the London Eye for spectacular views of the city or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Thames. The guided experience offers invaluable local expertise and historical context that transform your visit from a simple sightseeing stop into a deeper appreciation of this architectural masterpiece.
Luxury Accommodations with Prime Locations
For travelers seeking upscale lodging near Big Ben, several exceptional options offer both comfort and convenience. St. Ermin’s Hotel, part of the Autograph Collection, sits just 0.4 miles from the tower and features family-friendly suites alongside a unique rooftop beehive that produces honey served at breakfast. Rates start from £350 per night.
Conrad London St James, also 0.4 miles away, boasts a curated art collection and provides easy access to Buckingham Palace with average rates of £400 per night. For those desiring direct views of the clock tower, London Marriott Hotel County Hall offers balcony suites with unobstructed vistas at £250-£300 nightly.
The historic Royal Horseguards hotel combines elegant accommodations with Thames-view rooms and a traditional afternoon tea experience. At £200-£250 per night, it offers luxury with relative value given its prime location and amenities.
Budget-Friendly Hotel Options
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing location when visiting Big Ben. The easyHotel London Victoria provides compact, air-conditioned rooms from just £60 per night. Located one mile from the clock tower, it’s approximately a 25-minute walk to reach your destination.
Z Hotel Victoria offers “pod-style” accommodations near Westminster Abbey starting at £75 per night. Despite the smaller rooms, these affordable central London hotels provide clean, comfortable bases for exploring Westminster and beyond. Their proximity to major transport links also makes them convenient jumping-off points for visiting other London attractions.
Both options demonstrate that Westminster location accommodations needn’t break the bank, allowing you to allocate more of your travel budget to experiences rather than lodging.
Fine Dining with Spectacular Views
After exploring the Big Ben clock tower, treat yourself to exceptional dining experiences with views that complement your visit. Gillray’s Steakhouse, located just 0.3 miles away in County Hall, serves classic steakhouse fare alongside a robust buffet breakfast, all while offering stunning views of Parliament across the Thames.
For a truly elevated experience, Fenchurch Restaurant in the Sky Garden provides 360-degree panoramic views of London landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral. Though located 1.5 miles from Big Ben, the spectacular vistas make it worth the short journey.
The Cinnamon Club, housed in a former Westminster library 0.6 miles from Big Ben, has earned Michelin Guide recognition for its reimagined Indian cuisine. Their masala-spiced lamb exemplifies their innovative approach to traditional flavor profiles while honoring British culinary influences.
Hidden Culinary Gems Near Big Ben
Beyond the well-known restaurants, several hidden culinary treasures await near the clock tower. Borough Market, though 1.2 miles away, offers a foodie paradise with global street food options including mouthwatering chorizo sandwiches and the renowned Monmouth Coffee.
For a quintessential British experience, The Albert stands 0.5 miles from Big Ben as a classic Victorian pub serving traditional fish and chips alongside local ales. The historic atmosphere provides a perfect complement to your Westminster sightseeing.
Here are some additional nearby dining options worth exploring:
- Scootercaffe: A quirky café with vintage Vespa decor and exceptional hot chocolate
- Brasserie Joel: Offers inclusive menus with excellent vegetarian and vegan options
- Darwin Brasserie at Sky Garden: An alternative for sky-high cocktails with panoramic views
Note that while you might have heard about an “April Fool’s Rooftop Bar” at Big Ben for 2025, this was unfortunately just a creative joke rather than an actual venue.
Planning Your Perfect Big Ben Experience
To ensure a seamless visit, book your tour well in advance through the UK Parliament’s official website. Weekday mornings typically offer smaller crowds and a more relaxed experience. Allow extra time for security checks and dress in layers to accommodate variable temperatures inside the tower.
For ideal photography opportunities, position yourself at Parliament Square or Westminster Bridge to capture the iconic clock tower in its full glory. I recommend combining your Big Ben tour with visits to nearby attractions like Westminster Abbey (0.2 miles) and the London Eye (0.3 miles) to create a comprehensive Westminster itinerary.
The Elizabeth Tower tours provide a rare opportunity to step inside one of London’s most recognizable landmarks and witness the intricate mechanics that have kept this timepiece running for generations. With proper planning, your 2025 visit to Big Ben will deliver an unforgettable London experience.
Sources
Tripadvisor – Big Ben Tours
UK Parliament – Getting Ready for Your Big Ben Tour
Tripadvisor – Hotels Near Big Ben
TheFork – Top 50 Best London Restaurants with a View
Guidelines to Britain – Facts About Big Ben in London
Secret London – Big Ben Tours