Houses of Parliament

Approximate Journey Time: 2 Hrs 45 Mins

Time at Destination: 5 Hrs

Comfort Stop: Yes

Drop off Point: Millbank

Arrival approximately 12 Noon - in good time for the 12.30 entrance. Departure time 5pm 

Step into the heart of British democracy on an audio self-guided tour. Take a look at the architecture, art and learn the history of British politics and what happens today in the same halls. Visit the Chamber of the House of Commons where our elected Members of Parliament sit and the Chamber of the House of Lords, where members of the peerage sit. Walk through the halls where some of the most famous British names have walked before you and made decisions that have left an impact on all of Britain. After your tour spend the rest of the day exploring London at your leisure, and enjoy all the capital has to offer.

The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is one of the most iconic landmarks in London, located on the banks of the River Thames. The structure itself is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, designed by Sir Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin in the mid-19th century after the original medieval building was destroyed by fire in 1834. The design is characterized by its pointed arches, intricate stonework, and grand facades.

Westminster Hall: This part of the building dates back to the 11th century and survived the fire of 1834. It is one of the oldest parts of the structure, notable for its large hammerbeam roof. Riverfront Façade: The building’s riverfront, stretching along the Thames, is characterized by an array of pointed spires and ornate detailing.

The Houses of Parliament are made up of several buildings, including the Palace of Westminster, the Elizabeth Tower (which houses the famous Big Ben bell), the Victoria Tower, and the Parliamentary Estate. The Palace of Westminster contains numerous chambers and rooms, including the House of Commons Chamber, the House of Lords Chamber, the Queen's Robing Room, the Members' Lobby, and the Central Lobby.

The House of Commons is where elected Members of Parliament (MPs) debate and vote on legislation, and is presided over by the Speaker of the House of Commons. The House of Lords is made up of appointed and hereditary peers who scrutinize and amend legislation, and is presided over by the Lord Speaker.

Visitors will be able to explore the Palace of Westminster at their own pace, guided by a multimedia headset device with audio and visual content. tour highlights include Westminster Hall, Central Lobby, The House of Commons Chamber and The House of Lords Chamber. There's no set time but allow at lease 90 minutes to complete the route, many guests spend 2 to 2.5 hours touring the Houses of Parliament. 

Afterward there is free time to visit other attractions nearby - Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, Churchill Rooms, Victoria, Climbing Big Ben Tower (please note 334-step spiral stairwell)  - Entrance to these are an additional entrance fee and early booking is recommended.