What To See In London
Big Ben

Big Ben is located at the northern end of the Palace of Westminster and is a world famous clock tower. In actual fact, 'Big Ben', is the nickname for the great bell of the clock that can be heard chiming throughout the day.

In 2009 Big Ben celebrated it's 150th anniversary and it remains the largest four-faced chiming clock and the third-tallest free-standing clock tower in the world.

Londoners are very affectionate of this great London landmark and can often be seen going about thier daily business and checking thier personal wrist watches are in sync with Big Ben. The vast majority of London City Tours will feature Big Ben in some form whether it me a simple mention or some more detailed facts and history.

Unfortunately only residents of London can take a tour of Big Ben (the waiting list is over 6 months!) so there is no real need to plan ahead to visit. Because of it's central location you'll find that you cross path numerous times with the great clock and have many opportunity to admire the grand ol staple of the London skyline.

Big Ben Facts

• Over 850 cubic metres of stone and 2600 cubic metres of bricks were used to contruct the clock tower
• There are 11 internal floors in Big Ben
• Building of Big Ben took place in Anston, Yorkshire, Caen, Normandy, Clipsham and Rutland
• The hour hands are made of gun metal and weigh over 300kgs
• The light bulbs on Big Ben have a 60,000 hour life expectancy
• The minute hand travels 190kms per year
• The original tower was built in 1288-90 during the reign of King Edward
• The name given to the first clock bell was 'Great Edward' and later known as 'Great Tom'
• Contruction of Big Ben took 5 years longer than anticipated