Big Ben tours are finally available to foreign visitors
As one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in the world, getting a glimpse of Big Ben while in London is a no-brainer.
A glimpse, however, has been the most international visitors can get since 2010, as only British citizens have been allowed to tour the tower. Hopeful visitors would have to write their representative in Parliament for security assurance, an action that international visitors are unable to take.
Times have changed, though, and Big Ben tours will finally be accessible to foreigners. According to Frommer’s, the guided tours will launch in July and will be overseen by the U.K. Parliament.
“On this tour, you will see the inner workings of the clock mechanism, stand next to the world-famous Big Ben bell as it strikes the hour, and step behind the dials each spanning 6.9m [22.6 ft.] in diameter,” U.K. Parliament said about the tour. “Visitors must be aged 11 and over and be comfortable climbing 334 steps unaided and able to sustain moderate physical exertion for up to 90 minutes. You will experience high noise levels from the clock mechanism and bells—ear defenders [ear plugs] will be provided.”
Admission for the tour is £25 (US$31.60) for adults and £10 ($12.64) for children 11–17 years old. Admission to Big Ben grants visitors access to Westminster Hall, the room where Queen Elizabeth II lay in state before her funeral.
Frommer’s notes that the first batch of tickets went on sale this week and have already sold out. Visit Parliament.U.K to snag yours.
Roshae Hemmings is an arts and culture magazine journalist from St. Louis, MO. A graduate from the Missouri School of Journalism, Roshae has bylines in the Columbia Missourian, Vox Magazine and 5280 Magazine discussing topics ranging from pop culture, social justice and eat and drink. She is a foodie at heart and enjoys eating food as much as learning about the story behind it. You can reach Roshae via email at roshaehemmings@detourxp.com.
This story was originally published June 15, 2023 at 11:24 AM.