When you think of London, the first thing that comes to mind is the huge clock on the Palace of Westminster. That’s Elizabeth Tower, the home of Big Ben. It’s not just a pretty building – it’s a piece of history that still ticks every day.
Built in the mid‑1800s, the tower was originally called the Clock Tower. In 2012 it was renamed Elizabeth Tower to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond jubilee. The faces are 23 feet in diameter, and each one is made of opal glass that lets the light shine through.
The clock’s mechanism is completely mechanical – no batteries. It was designed by Edward Davis and still needs to be wound three times a week by a small team of engineers. The bell famously called Big Ben actually refers to the 13‑ton bell inside the tower, not the tower itself.
Every quarter hour, the tower plays the Westminster Chimes. If you’re in the area at 12 pm, you’ll hear the full hour strike – it’s louder than most people expect, so bring ear protection if you’re close.
Public tours of the tower are limited and need to be booked months in advance through the UK Parliament website. The tours last about an hour, include a climb up 334 steps, and end with a chance to see the clock up close.
If you just want a photo, the best spots are across the Thames on the South Bank or from the Westminster Bridge. Early morning or late evening light makes the tower glow. Try shooting from the Victoria Embankment for a clear view of the whole building.
Plan your visit around the change of the guard ceremony – the crowds thin out a bit and you get a cleaner backdrop. Also, check the weather: a clear day gives you the famous silhouette, while a rainy day can add dramatic clouds.
Nearby, you can stroll to the Houses of Parliament, the River Thames, or the London Eye. All three are within a five‑minute walk, so you can make a mini‑tour of London’s top attractions in a single afternoon.
Remember to bring a valid ID, wear comfortable shoes (you’ll be on stairs), and keep your camera ready. The tower’s lock‑up hours are usually 9 am to 5 pm, but the chimes keep going after that, so you can still hear the bells at night.
Whether you’re a history buff, a photo lover, or just curious about the famous clock, Elizabeth Tower offers a quick glimpse into London’s past and a great backdrop for your travel photos.
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