When you think of London, one name pops up before all others: Big Ben, the famous clock tower at the northern end of the Palace of Westminster. Also known as the Elizabeth Tower, it’s not just a clock—it’s a symbol of resilience, precision, and British identity. People often say "Big Ben" when they mean the whole tower, but technically, Big Ben is the name of the massive bell inside. The tower itself was renamed in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee, but the old name stuck because it’s simpler, louder, and more iconic.
Why does this clock tower matter so much? Because it’s been ticking through wars, royal events, and midnight New Years for over 160 years. Its four faces, each 23 feet across, are visible from miles away. The mechanism inside? Still hand-wound and maintained by a small team of engineers who treat it like a living heirloom. Unlike modern digital clocks, this one doesn’t just tell time—it tells history. And it’s not alone. Nearby, the Tower of London, a historic castle that once held kings, queens, and treasure stands as a reminder of how power shaped the city. Then there’s Tower Bridge, the lifting bridge with Gothic arches that looks like it came out of a fairy tale, which works in perfect rhythm with Big Ben to define London’s skyline.
Visiting? Don’t just snap a photo from Westminster Station. The best views come from the south bank of the Thames, especially at sunrise when the mist rolls in and the lights still glow. Locals know to skip the crowds and head to Little Venice or the London Eye’s lower deck for quieter, more dramatic shots. And if you’re lucky, you might hear the chimes—real, mechanical, and deep enough to rattle your chest. That’s not a recording. That’s 160 years of British craftsmanship ringing out over the city.
What you’ll find below isn’t just a list of articles. It’s a collection of real stories—from how the clock tower survived bombing raids to the hidden spots where photographers wait for the perfect light. You’ll read about the people who keep it running, the tourists who miss the real magic, and the locals who still pause when they hear Big Ben chime. This isn’t just a landmark. It’s a heartbeat.
Big Ben’s nighttime glow is more than lighting-it’s a symbol of resilience in London. Discover how the iconic clock tower’s warm light, chimes, and history connect deeply with the city’s identity, day and night.