Big Ben Guide: A Comprehensive Overview of London's Iconic Landmark
Located in the heart of London, the Big Ben is a symbol of British might and architectural beauty. Also known as the Great Bell, Big Ben is situated inside the Elizabeth Tower of the Palace of Westminster. Every year, countless tourists flock to London to witness the iconic clock and learn about its rich history. With the Big Ben tour 2026 fast approaching, now is the perfect time to delve into the fascinating story behind this London landmark.
Big Ben History
The origin of the name "Big Ben" is a bit confusing, as it is often mistakenly thought to be the nickname for the clock tower itself. In reality, the nicknaming honors the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom at the time, Benjamin Disraeli. However, "Big Ben" more accurately refers to the Great Bell inside the tower.
In 1858, Sir George Gilbert Scott won the commission to design the clock, which was built to aid in timekeeping of the hundreds of trains entering and leaving London. The winning bid for the construction of the clock chamber was £112,268, and the resulting clock itself would prove to be a marvel of engineering. Particularly noteworthy is the four-faced clock, made of Bromsgrove cast iron and white flock for nighttime visibility.
Big Ben's Chime Sounds
Big Ben may be the largest four-faced clock tower in the world, but what really sets it apart is its chime. Every hour, Big Ben's chimes resonate throughout London and can be heard from great distances; it is the largest ringing bell in the United Kingdom, at a massive 13.5 tons. While it was once operated manually, the clock was converted to an electromechanical system in 1981, and finally to a fully digital system in 1985.
Elizabeth Tower Tour Tickets
The iconic clock tower is well-known, but it's more impressive when you know how it came to be. The Elizabeth Tower Tour tickets, granted by the Houses of Parliament, reveal the fascinating story behind the construction and clock itself. Tourists have the rare opportunity to enter the chamber that houses Big Ben and learn all about its role in British history.
Houses of Parliament Tour
Taking a Houses of Parliament tour alongside the Elizabeth Tower tour provides a well-rounded view of British architecture and history. Many styles and eras are represented within the walls of the Palace of Westminster, making it one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival in the world.
Big Ben at Night
Big Ben's magnetic pull is even stronger at night when the iconic clock tower lights up against the backdrop of the dark sky. The view, especially with the Thames lights reflecting off the bridge, is one that will give visitors a new perspective on this London feature.
London Landmark Photography
Between the iconic Big Ben, the beautiful Palace of Westminster and the shape-shifting River Thames, photography enthusiasts have plenty to work with in London. Those looking to immortalize their trip can come away with stunning snapshots that capture the essence of this historic city.
Big Ben Height and London Eye
The London Eye, a giant cantilevered observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, provides a panoramic view of London, including Big Ben. With both structures visible from one another, this view is quite fitting as the clock and the wheel grace this location.
Big Ben Clock Facts
The clock is generally accurate, but for security purposes, it is kept running five minutes ahead to prevent any possible disruption. The clock's minute hand is 230 feet long, while the hour hand is 229 feet long. The duration taken for the minute hand to make one rotation is 2,176.2 miles, the average speed of sound. Lastly, Big Ben's chimes can been heard for about a mile away.
While the Elizabeth Tower and the Great Bell might not look quite as magnificent from the other side of the world, their importance in British history is palpable. Their significance transcends the icon of timekeeping and represents the persistence and resilience of a country's spirit. Whether you're there to marvel at the stunning architecture, take in the view, or simply listen to the chime sound, your Big Ben guide is sure to make the experience one to remember.