Houses of Parliament Westminster Tours | Expert Guides & Abbey Entry

Things to know before booking Houses of Parliament tours

Houses of Parliament access: Note that access to the Houses of Parliament is not included in Westminster Abbey tickets. To visit, you must purchase a Houses of Parliament ticket.
Types of tickets: To delve into the Houses of Parliament, you have flexible ticket options. Select a standard entry ticket with an audio guide for a self-paced journey, or enhance your experience by upgrading to a guided tour of the Palace of Westminster with a professional live guide who can answer your questions in real-time.
What’s included: A standard tour typically grants you access to the historic Westminster Hall, the Commons Chamber, the Lords Chamber, and other significant rooms. You'll also benefit from expert commentary on the building’s history and architecture. Please note that direct access to Big Ben's interior is not included, nor is the right to sit in during live parliamentary debates, which require separate arrangements.
Guided tours: With a guided tour, you will get access to a professional live guide providing detailed historical and political insights.
Combo tickets: Maximize your London sightseeing with combined tickets! By upgrading your purchase, you can effortlessly visit the nearby Westminster Abbey along with the Palace of Westminster. Enjoy a guided tour with optional skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey, offering both convenience and potential savings for those planning to visit multiple landmarks in one day.

Why visit the Houses of Parliament

Visitor photographing the iconic Houses of Parliament in London during a guided tour.

Explore the largest parliamentary building: The Palace of Westminster spans over 8 acres and houses the UK Parliament. It features more than 1,100 rooms, including the debating chambers of the House of Commons and House of Lords.
See Big Ben: Standing 96m tall, the Elizabeth Tower—commonly known as Big Ben—is one of London’s most recognizable landmarks.
Walk through centuries of British history: Discover chambers, corridors, and halls where pivotal moments in British politics unfolded, from the medieval Westminster Hall with its 14th-century hammerbeam roof to the ornate Central Lobby.
Admire Gothic Revival architecture: Designed by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin, the palace showcases detailed stone carvings, stained glass windows, and soaring spires, reflecting Victorian-era grandeur.
Get expert commentary: Learn about the UK’s political system and the building’s history from knowledgeable guides or audio tours, with access to key areas like the Commons Chamber and the Westminster Hall.

What to see inside the Palace of Westminster

Big Ben and Houses of Parliament with autumn trees in London.

Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)

Big Ben’s chimes have marked time since 1859, making it one of the most recognizable sounds in the world. Its Gothic Revival architecture and towering presence define the London skyline, offering a glimpse into Britain’s political heritage.

Eiffel Tower view from Seine River cruise in Paris, France.

The Commons Chamber

This is where elected Members of Parliament shape the laws of the UK. The green benches where MPs debate, the Speaker’s Chair, and traditions like Prime Minister’s Questions, reveal the vibrant workings of parliamentary democracy.

The Lords Chamber

Adorned with red benches, intricate gold detailing and woodwork, tapestries, and the throne used by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament, this chamber hosts the unelected Lords who scrutinize legislation.

Westminster Hall

Dating back to 1097, Westminster Hall’s hammerbeam roof is a masterpiece of medieval engineering. It has witnessed historic trials, including that of Guy Fawkes, coronation banquets, and addresses by world leaders, presenting a millennium of British history.

Central Lobby entrance with ornate arches and detailed stone carvings at Houses of Parliament, London.

The Central Lobby

This octagonal hall links the Commons and Lords' chambers and serves as a meeting point between MPs and the public. Its ornate mosaics and statues of former prime ministers celebrate British history, making it a symbolic heart of the Palace.

Members’ Lobby at Houses of Parliament with wooden paneling and archway.

The Members’ Lobby

The Members’ Lobby is a decorated corridor where MPs gather between sessions, where political discussions unfold away from the chambers. It features statues and busts of notable parliamentarians and is adorned with detailed carvings and paintings.

Westminster Abbey seen from Victoria Tower Gardens, London, with lush greenery in the foreground.

The Victoria Tower

Standing taller than Big Ben, the Victoria Tower houses the Parliamentary Archives, safeguarding centuries of legislative documents. While access is limited, its height and design emphasize the enduring nature of British governance.

Thames River cruise passing by the Houses of Parliament in London.

The River Thames facade

The Palace’s Gothic spires and intricate stonework are beautifully reflected in the Thames, offering one of London’s most photographed vistas. Evening illuminations add a magical quality, perfect for capturing the landmark’s grandeur.

The Royal Gallery

This grand hall is adorned with murals depicting key moments in British history and royal ceremonies. It symbolizes the deep-rooted connection between the Crown and Parliament, enriching visitors’ understanding of the UK’s unique constitutional monarchy.

Architectural highlights of the Houses of Parliament

Facade of the Palace of Westminster with Union Jack flag, London.

The Palace of Westminster is predominantly a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture. This style, characterized by its ornate detailing, pointed arches, vaulted ceilings, and soaring spires, was a deliberate choice to evoke a sense of national history and grandeur after the devastating fire of 1834. The Palace spans over 8 acres and boasts more than 1,100 rooms, showcasing the immense scale and complexity of its design.

While the majority of the current structure dates from the 19th century, the Palace incorporates one significant older part: Westminster Hall. This hall, dating back to 1097, survived the fire and stands as a prime example of medieval English architecture.

Historical and cultural significance of the Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster has been a royal palace since the 11th century. For centuries, it served as the primary residence for English monarchs.
It gradually evolved into the permanent seat of Parliament, solidifying its role as the center of legislative power.
Westminster Hall, the oldest surviving part of the Palace, dating back to 1097, has witnessed some of the most dramatic moments in British history. This includes the trials of Guy Fawkes (1606) and King Charles I (1649), the assassination of Prime Minister Spencer Perceval in 1812 (the only British PM ever assassinated), and the bombing of the Commons Chamber in 1941 during WWII.
A pivotal moment was the fire in 1834, which destroyed most of the old palace. This led to the monumental rebuilding project, giving us the Gothic Revival structure we see today.
For many Britons, the Palace is a source of national pride and identity, representing their history, their political system, and their place in the world. Its facade and interior spaces have featured countless times in films, television shows, literature, and art.

Know before you go to the Houses of Parliament

Houses of Parliament view from London Eye, showcasing iconic architecture.

The Palace of Westminster is open on most Saturdays throughout the year.

July 31 to August 31:
- Monday: 1:15pm–5:30pm
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:15am–5:30pm
September 17 to October 5:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:15am–4:30pm

Last entry: Last admission is usually 30 mins before closing time.
Closed: The Palace is closed to the public when Parliament is in session and on public holidays.
Recommended duration: Allocate at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Palace, including the historic chambers, Westminster Hall, and the audio-guided tour.

Big Ben silhouetted against a vibrant sunset sky in London.

Weekdays vs. weekends: Since public tours are mostly on Saturdays and recess periods, plan your visit on a Saturday morning to avoid afternoon crowds.
Seasonal advice: Visit during the parliamentary recess in August or December for quieter experiences and more available tour slots.
Time of day: Early morning tours are less crowded and allow for a more intimate experience.
Avoid: Avoid visiting during major political events or sessions, as public access is restricted.
Special events: Occasionally, special tours or events are held during national celebrations or commemorations.

Address: Houses of Parliament, Westminster, London SW1A 0AA | Find on Maps

By tube: Jubilee, District, and Circle lines
Nearest station: Westminster Station
By bus: Routes 3, 11, 12, 24, 53, 87, 88, 148, 159, 211, 453
Nearest stop: Parliament Square
By train: Southern
Nearest station: Charing Cross, Victoria, or Waterloo
By car: Via A3212
Nearest parking: Q-Park Westminster

Palace of Westminster in London with Big Ben and Houses of Parliament.

Cromwell Green Visitor Entrance: This is the primary public entrance for most visitors, including those on tours or attending public galleries.
Portcullis House Entrance (Victoria Embankment): The visitor entrance to Portcullis House is on Victoria Embankment. The Ticket Office for tours is also located at the front of Portcullis House.

Houses of Parliament facade with Richard the Lionheart statue, London.

Security screening: All visitors and their belongings will undergo airport-style security checks, which may include a hand search.
Prohibited items: Guns, knives, defence sprays, scissors, cutlery, screwdrivers, whistles, banners, placards, flags, political or offensive slogan materials, open liquids or semi-liquid foods, luggage larger than 60cm x 40cm, e-bikes, and battery packs.
Visitor Pass: Once through security, you will be given a visitor pass that must be worn visibly at all times.
Photography: Photography is only permitted in Westminster Hall, St Stephen's Hall, and in the visitor area of New Palace Yard.
Mobile phones: The use of mobile phones is not permitted in other parts of the tour routes or in the public galleries and must be switched off during tours.
Food & drink: Eating or drinking is not permitted around the building, except in the Jubilee Café.
Smoking & vaping: Smoking or vaping is not permitted on the Parliamentary Estate.
Sitting in Chambers: Visitors are not permitted to sit on the benches in either the House of Commons or the House of Lords chambers.
Children: Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Cloakroom area inside Bridge Theatre, London, with coat racks and storage lockers.

Cloakroom: Available near the visitor entrance for coats and small bags.
Toilets and changing facilities: Several visitor toilets and changing facilities are available, including a Changing Places toilet.
Souvenir shop: There are Houses of Parliament Gift Shops offering a range of branded products, including glassware, ceramics, chocolates, and gifts.
Multi-faith prayer room: A multi-faith prayer room is situated off Westminster Hall.
Jubilee Cafe: Located off Westminster Hall, the Jubilee Cafe serves a variety of hot and cold snacks and drinks.
Lost Property Office: A Lost Property Office is located off St Stephen's Hall.

Houses of Parliament interior with statues and stained glass windows, part of guided tour.

Step-free access: Most areas, except St. Stephen’s Hall, are wheelchair accessible via ramps and lifts.
Wheelchairs: Wheelchairs are available to borrow free of charge in Westminster Hall.
Accessible toilets: Wheelchair-accessible toilets are located in various places, including one near Westminster Hall and a Changing Places toilet in Lower Waiting Hall.
Assistance dogs: Guide dogs, hearing dogs, and assistance dogs are welcome.
Audio tours & hearing loops: Multimedia tours are available in multiple languages, including a British Sign Language (BSL) option. Hearing loop systems are fitted throughout public areas, and portable hearing loops are available.
Sign language interpretation: BSL interpretation can be requested in advance for guided tours and debates.
Accessible parking: A limited number of Blue Badge parking bays are available in Star Chamber Court.

Outdoor café seating with patrons enjoying food and drinks in a bustling city setting.

Jubilee Cafe: Situated next to the Jubilee Shop, just off Westminster Hall, the Jubilee Cafe serves a range of hot and cold snacks and drinks. This includes freshly made sandwiches, paninis, barista-crafted coffee (Fairtrade certified), Twinings speciality teas, pastries, cakes, and locally sourced ice cream. Meal deals for breakfast and lunch, as well as a Jubilee Cream Tea, are also offered.

Visitor tips

Time your visit to see debates or committees: If you want to watch a live debate in the House of Commons or House of Lords, plan your visit when Parliament is sitting. You can sit in the public galleries for free, but ticketed guided tours do not include the right to sit in during debates, so you’ll need to plan separately. Note that public galleries are free but subject to availability and parliamentary schedule.
Mind the security timings: Security screening can take 15–30 mins, especially at busy times. Arrive at least 30 mins early.
Dress respectfully: While there’s no strict dress code, Parliament will refuse entry to anyone wearing political slogans, costumes, or offensive prints. Avoid hats inside the chambers and don’t wear fancy dress (like crowns or themed outfits).
Choose between an audio guide or the live guide: If you want maximum freedom, the self-guided audio tour lets you go at your own pace (about 90 mins). But for extra stories, pick a guided tour that is led by accredited guides who share anecdotes you won’t get on the audio.
Look up at the floor tiles: In the Central Lobby and St Stephen’s Hall, pay attention to the encaustic Minton floor tiles. They’re original Victorian features with hidden political symbols and the royal cypher.
Spot historic graffiti: Inside Westminster Hall, look for medieval graffiti carved by schoolboys when the Hall was used for coronation banquets and trials. Some inscriptions date back centuries, and you can ask your guide to point them out.
Look for hidden statues: Most visitors focus on the major chambers but miss small details: look for the statues of suffragettes in the Crypt Lobby and the plaque for Emily Wilding Davison (who famously hid in a cupboard at the Palace on census night 1911 to claim Parliament as her address).
Check out the “Division Bell”: Inside the Palace, you’ll see small brass bells in corridors and meeting rooms. These Division Bells ring when a vote is called, giving MPs 8 mins to get to the chamber. Some nearby pubs in Westminster even have Division Bells too — historically, MPs could be called back mid-pint!
Spot the bullet holes in the Commons Chamber: In the Commons Lobby, ask your guide about the bullet holes from the 1812 assassination of Prime Minister Spencer Perceval (the only British PM ever assassinated). There’s also bomb damage from WWII visible; the Commons Chamber was rebuilt by architect Giles Gilbert Scott after being hit by a bomb in 1941.
Check for protest disruptions: Being the seat of government, Parliament Square often hosts protests. These rarely stop tours, but they can delay your arrival if roads are closed. Always check the Met Police or Transport for London for planned protests on your visit day.
Buy Hansard or order transcripts: Did you know you can buy an official record of any debate you watch? The Hansard transcripts are a unique souvenir for political buffs. You can order them online or ask the visitor desk for info.
Combine with Westminster Abbey: The Abbey is just across the road. It’s efficient to book tickets close together, but allow at least 2–3 hours for the Parliament, plus 1–2 hours for the Abbey. There’s a security check at each, so factor that in.
Take the best photos from across the Thames: While you can’t photograph inside the Chambers, the classic photo spot for Big Ben and the Palace is from the South Bank, near the London Eye. Another top spot: the Victoria Embankment or Westminster Bridge at sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions about Houses of Parliament tours

When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Early mornings and weekdays during parliamentary recesses tend to be less crowded. Visiting outside of peak tourist seasons (summer and holidays) also helps avoid large crowds.

Is the Palace of Westminster accessible to visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the Palace offers wheelchair access and other facilities for visitors with mobility challenges. Assistance is available upon request, and it’s advisable to inform the booking provider in advance.

What should I know about the history of the Palace of Westminster?

Originally a royal residence, the Palace has been the home of the UK Parliament since the 13th century. It was rebuilt in the 19th century after a devastating fire, preserving its medieval Westminster Hall and adding the iconic Big Ben clock tower.

Is Big Ben part of the Palace tour?

Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower, which is part of the Palace complex. While the tower itself is not generally open to the public, it can be admired from the outside.

Are there any special events or exhibitions at the Palace?

Occasionally, the Palace hosts special exhibitions and events related to British history and governance. Check the official website or Headout for current offerings.

Can I attend a parliamentary debate or committee session?

Yes, visitors can attend debates and committee sessions when Parliament is sitting, but tickets must be booked in advance and are subject to availability.

How long does a typical tour last?

Most guided tours last about 60 mins to 4 hours, providing a comprehensive overview without being overwhelming.

Are there any combined tickets with other London attractions?

Yes, Headout offers combination tickets that include the Palace of Westminster along with other popular sites like Westminster Abbey, providing convenience and savings.

Is it better to book tickets in advance or on the spot?

Booking in advance through Headout is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot, avoid long queues, and often benefit from discounted rates.

What makes the Houses of Parliament unique compared to other landmarks in London?

Its blend of political significance, architectural grandeur, and rich history makes it a living monument where history is still being made. Few landmarks offer such a direct connection to the governance and heritage of a nation.

Enjoy an in-depth Parliament visit with personal audio commentary throughout your self-guided tour.

Everything you get: See the UK’s political heart from within at the Houses of Parliament: the green seats of the Commons, the red grandeur of the Lords & centuries-old Westminster Hall. The audio guide shares stories of statecraft & royal influence as you explore at your pace.
Why choose this: Avoid the crowds of large guided groups and enjoy personal time inside Britain’s political epicentre.
Upgrades: Enhance your visit with guided Westminster Abbey access, featuring skip-the-line entry and expert insights through a personal headset.

Inclusions

Entry to Houses of Parliament

Additional paid upgrades

Entry to Westminster Abbey
Skip-the-line access to Westminster
Audio guided tour at the Parliament
Professional guide at both the Abbey & Parliament
Headset

Exclusions

Transportation

Drinks & food
Hotel pick-up & drop-off

What to bring

Ensure your entry tickets and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.
Pack earphones for your audio guide experience.

What's not allowed

Alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages, and drones are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
Flash photography is strictly prohibited at the venue.

Accessibility

This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
With Braille and a hearing loop system, this experience is accessible to all.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.

Additional information

Available facilities: restroom.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Enjoy an in-depth Parliament visit with personal audio commentary throughout your self-guided tour.

Everything you get: See the UK’s political heart from within at the Houses of Parliament: the green seats of the Commons, the red grandeur of the Lords & centuries-old Westminster Hall. The audio guide shares stories of statecraft & royal influence as you explore at your pace.
Why choose this: Avoid the crowds of large guided groups and enjoy personal time inside Britain’s political epicentre.
Upgrades: Enhance your visit with guided Westminster Abbey access, featuring skip-the-line entry and expert insights through a personal headset.

Inclusions

Entry to Houses of Parliament

Additional paid upgrades

Entry to Westminster Abbey
Skip-the-line access to Westminster
Audio guided tour at the Parliament
Professional guide at both the Abbey & Parliament
Headset

Exclusions

Transportation

Drinks & food
Hotel pick-up & drop-off

What to bring

Ensure your entry tickets and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.
Pack earphones for your audio guide experience.

What's not allowed

Alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages, and drones are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
Flash photography is strictly prohibited at the venue.

Accessibility

This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
With Braille and a hearing loop system, this experience is accessible to all.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.

Additional information

Available facilities: restroom.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Houses of Parliament Tickets & Tours

Top things to do in London

Where is it located?

How to access it?

Things to know before booking Houses of Parliament tours

Why visit the Houses of Parliament

What to see inside the Palace of Westminster

Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)

The Commons Chamber

The Lords Chamber

Westminster Hall

The Central Lobby

The Members’ Lobby

The Victoria Tower

The River Thames facade

The Royal Gallery

Architectural highlights of the Houses of Parliament

Historical and cultural significance of the Palace of Westminster

Know before you go to the Houses of Parliament

Visitor tips

Frequently Asked Questions about Houses of Parliament tours

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What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Houses of Parliament Tickets & Tours