In the heart of London, where the Thames flows past the bustling streets of Westminster, Houses of Parliament stands as a timeless symbol of democracy and architectural grandeur. More than just a government building, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has shaped London's identity for over a century and a half. Its iconic silhouette, crowned by the famous clock tower, is instantly recognizable to anyone who's walked along the South Bank or taken a Thames cruise. But behind the grandeur lies a fascinating story of fire, rebirth, and the genius of Sir Charles Barry, whose vision transformed London's skyline forever.
The Great Fire That Changed London
On October 16, 1834, a fire broke out in the Palace of Westminster, destroying most of the medieval royal palace. The blaze started when overheated stoves in the House of Lords ignited wooden paneling. By dawn, only Westminster Hall and a few other sections remained. This disaster forced the government to rebuild from scratch, setting the stage for one of London's most iconic structures.
Today, you can still see traces of the fire's impact. When you walk past the Palace of Westminster on a clear day, notice the darker stone patches on the exterior. These are remnants of the original 11th-century hall that survived the flames. The fire also reshaped London's political landscape: the new building needed to reflect modern democracy while honoring Britain's history.
Sir Charles Barry: The Architectural Visionary
Sir Charles Barry, a 44-year-old architect from London, won the competition to design the new palace. Born in 1795, Barry had already designed notable buildings like the Reform Club in Pall Mall. His entry blended Gothic Revival style with practical modern needs. He collaborated closely with Augustus Pugin, a Gothic architecture expert, who handled the intricate detailing.
Barry's design wasn't just about aesthetics. He planned for functionality: 11,000 windows, 100 staircases, and 3 miles of corridors to accommodate MPs and staff. Construction began in 1840 and took 30 years to complete. The building officially opened in 1870. Today, Barry's legacy is visible in every corner of the Palace of Westminster, from the grand Central Lobby to the soaring Victoria Tower.
Architectural Mastery: A Closer Look
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Rooms | Over 1,100 |
| Staircases | 100 |
| Corridors | 3 miles |
| Windows | 11,000 |
| Completion Year | 1870 |
| UNESCO Status | World Heritage Site since 1987 |
When you stand in Parliament Square, look up at the Elizabeth Tower. Many call it "Big Ben," but technically that's just the name of the 13.5-ton bell inside. The tower itself was renamed in 2012 for Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. At 316 feet tall, it dominates the skyline and chimes every hour-Londoners hear it from as far as the City of London or Canary Wharf.
The Gothic Revival architecture style is evident in every detail. Pointed arches, intricate stone carvings, and stained-glass windows reflect medieval craftsmanship. But Barry also incorporated modern engineering: cast iron beams for support and a fireproof structure. This blend of old and new makes the building uniquely British.
A Living Landmark in Modern London
Today, the UK Parliament isn't just a historical relic. It's the beating heart of British democracy. The House of Commons and House of Lords meet here daily, debating laws that affect every Londoner. During the State Opening of Parliament, the monarch arrives in a golden carriage from Buckingham Palace, passing through the streets of Westminster. This ceremony, held every year since 1852, draws crowds to the Parliament Square area.
For locals, the building is part of daily life. Commuters take the District Line to Westminster station, exiting just steps from the entrance. Tourists snap photos with Big Ben in the background while enjoying fish and chips from a nearby shop. Even the protests in Parliament Square are a regular feature-activists gather here to voice concerns about climate change, social justice, or government policies.
Visiting Tips for Londoners and Tourists
If you're planning a visit, start with the basics. The nearest tube stations are Westminster (District, Circle, Jubilee lines) and St James's Park (District, Circle lines). From Victoria Station, it's a 10-minute walk along Victoria Street. The Thames Path offers a scenic route from the London Eye-just cross Westminster Bridge and you'll see the building ahead.
Guided tours run Monday to Friday, but you must book in advance through the UK Parliament website. A typical tour lasts 90 minutes and covers the Commons Chamber, Lords Chamber, and Westminster Hall. For free entry, check if Parliament is sitting; you can watch debates from the public galleries. Remember: security is tight, so leave bags at home and bring photo ID.
After your visit, grab coffee at the Westminster Abbey café or grab a pint at The George pub on Parliament Street. This historic pub has been serving locals since 1720 and is just a five-minute walk from the Houses of Parliament. If you're in the mood for dinner, try The Ivy at the Savoy for classic British dishes.
Legacy Today: Restoring a National Treasure
Right now, the Restoration and Renewal Programme is underway. This £4 billion project aims to fix crumbling stonework, outdated wiring, and aging plumbing. While construction continues, parts of the building are temporarily closed. For example, the Victoria Tower is currently covered in scaffolding, and some tour routes have changed.
This work is critical. The building's structure is over 150 years old, and without restoration, it risks becoming unsafe. Londoners have seen the impact firsthand: during the 2019 renovations, the clock tower was silent for months, and the public galleries were closed. But the project ensures this landmark will stand strong for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tourists visit the Houses of Parliament?
Yes, guided tours are available Monday to Friday. You must book tickets in advance via the UK Parliament website. Tours typically include the Commons Chamber, Lords Chamber, and Westminster Hall. During parliamentary sessions, you can also attend debates from the public galleries by requesting tickets from your MP.
What's the difference between Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament?
Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell inside the clock tower. The tower itself was renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. Many people mistakenly use "Big Ben" to refer to the entire building, but technically it's just the bell. The Houses of Parliament is the official name of the whole complex, which includes the clock tower as part of its structure.
How do I get to the Houses of Parliament from central London?
The easiest way is by London Underground. Westminster station (District, Circle, Jubilee lines) is just a 3-minute walk away. From King's Cross, take the Victoria Line to Warren Street, then switch to the District Line to Westminster. If you're walking from the South Bank, cross Westminster Bridge and follow the Thames Path-this route offers stunning views of the building.
Is the building open to the public year-round?
Parts of the building are open throughout the year, but access varies during parliamentary sessions or restoration work. The UK Parliament website provides real-time updates on tour availability. For example, during the 2024-2025 renovation phase, the Victoria Tower and some corridors were temporarily closed. Always check online before visiting.
Why is the clock tower called Big Ben?
The name "Big Ben" originally referred to the 13.5-ton bell inside the tower. It was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, the First Commissioner of Works who oversaw the tower's construction. Over time, people started using "Big Ben" to describe the entire clock tower. In 2012, the tower was officially renamed Elizabeth Tower to honor Queen Elizabeth II's 60-year reign, but "Big Ben" remains the popular nickname.