Why visit / Interesting facts:
- One of London's most impressive building
- Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Time required: 10 minutes
Phone: +44 844 847 1672
Web site: http://www.parliament.uk/
Public transport:
- Circle Line: Westminster station
- District Line: Westminster station
- Jubilee Line: Westminster station
Address: Palace of Westminister House of Commons, London SW1A OAA
Photos: (see more photos)
Photo: Du Tran
Things you need to know:
- Houses of Parliament (also known as Palace of Westminster) are the policical heart of the city and the UK
- The original palace, built approx. thousand years ago, was destroyed by fire in 1834
- The current one having 1,100 rooms and 11 courtyards was built in 1840
- It is home to the House of Commons and the House of Lords
- 659 publicly elected Members of Parliament sit and pass legislatures in the House of Commons
- House of Lords with approx. 700 members is an unelected body that has limited power
- Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987
- Its famous clock tower is called Big Ben
What to do there:
- Admire the majestic building from the outside
- For the best photo spot walk through the Westminster Bridge to the other side of the Thames
Tips & Insights:
- UK citizens can take guided tours on select days throughout the year
- Non-UK citizens can take guided tours only during Parliament's summer break
- You may observe debates for free from the Stranger's Galleries in both houses
