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Unfortunately, it is closed to members of the public. Downing Streetīest known for the house at 10, Downing Street, this location is at the heart of Westminster and of course, British politics. It is located in the former Middlesex Guildhall, a striking stone structure built by Scottish architect James S Gibson with decorative external sculptures by Henry Fehr. The Supreme Court is known to be the highest court in the United Kingdom. We highly recommend making that short trip across the road from the main Westminster parliament buildings to this structure. Sitting across the road from the imposing Houses of Parliament, this 14th century tower boasts of a stunning, untouched 14th century ribbed vault. Many tourists miss visiting this simple, three-storey structure. It sits between Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. This is a fine 16th century building with medieval and modern stained glass. If you time your visit correctly, you can see the Changing of the Queen's Life Guard at 11 am, which takes place daily on Horse Guards Parade. Like horses? Take a quick trip to the original 18th century stables and watch the cavalry guards work on their horses (via a glazed partition). Do visit the Map Room which has been untouched since the day the lights were switched off in 1945.
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If you enjoy a bit of history you will definitely get a kick out of visiting the underground bunker where Winston Churchill worked and occasionally lived during World War II. Stop and admire the Parliament, the Strand, Whitehall, South Bank, and the London Eye, while allowing the sounds and smells of London to wash over you. The Westminster Bridge gives you incredible views when you walk along it. This is also where Will and Kate exchanged their heartfelt vows. Step inside and see where British monarchs have been crowned for centuries.
#Bigben london free#
The Westminster Abbey is open for services on Sundays and the public can worship here free of charge. If the House of Commons or House of Lords are in session, the public can go inside and sit in the public galleries. The Houses of ParliamentĪttached to the clock tower that houses Big Ben is the Houses of Parliament, and the best part is that visitors are welcome.
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However, the structure still stands and while you might not be able to synchronise your watch to the sound, there is much that you can see and enjoy around the Big Ben. The iconic landmark is being restored and repaired, and will begin sounding its famous chimes until 2021. The Big Ben has fallen silent for the first time in its 157 years of almost continuous timekeeping. The complete tour takes about 1-1.30 hours. Big Ben (now rechristened Elizabeth Tower), stands tall at 96 metres and has the world’s second largest four-faced chiming clock.īig Ben is in London, located near of the Palace of Westminster (not to be confused with the nearby Westminster Abbey).īig Ben is open to visitors all year around.
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This iconic landmark is immensely popular with tourists and even the locals have a soft spot for it in their hearts. When you think of London, you immediately think of Big Ben, the monument is that synonymous with the city’s culture.
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