Big Ben, London : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Meet Big Ben, one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the City of Westminster, Big Ben counts amongst the most impressive bell towers in the world. This tower of Elizabethan Gothic design holds an undeniable charm. But there’s more to it than its grandeur. Set your chronometer to high noon for a brief rundown of some of the most interesting facts, information and travel guide to Big Ben, London. From age-old myths and stories to modern engineering marvels, it is a structure that is both fascinating and mysterious.

Interesting Facts About Big Ben, London

1. Big Ben is not actually the name of the clock tower. The name Big Ben actually refers to the Great Bell housed inside the tower, that weighs 13.5 tons.

2. The clock tower is actually called the Elizabeth Tower, or the Clock Tower. It was renamed in honour of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

3. The clock first started ticking on May 31, 1859. It has not stopped since.

4. The clock is one of the most accurate clock in the world. It is said to lose around one second per day.

5. The clock tower was built with over nine million bricks, along with three thousand tons of iron and steel.

6. The clock tower has become an iconic symbol of London and one of its most famous attractions. It is visited by thousands of tourists every year.

7. The four clock faces are set at a height of 96 metres and have a diameter of 7 metres each.

8. The clock faces are lit up when the House of Commons are in session at night.

9. There are three bells inside the tower. The largest of these is the Great Bell, colloquially known as Big Ben.

10. During World War II, the clock tower was not damaged and kept running despite being bombed several times.

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History & Information About Big Ben, London

Big Ben is not only one of the most iconic symbols of London, but it is also one of the most iconic symbols for the entire United Kingdom. The bell was originally known as the Great Bell of Westminster but was later dubbed Big Ben after Benjamin Hall, the First Commissioner of Works when the bell was first casted in 1859. It is the largest four-faced clock in the world and remains one of the world’s most accurate timepieces.

Big Ben, or the Great Bell of Westminster, resides in the Elizabeth Tower at the Palace of Westminster and is heard to mark the hour. It chimes every quarter of an hour and bongs every hour, indicating the time with the four clock faces visible from Parliament Square, the Victoria Tower, and Whitehall. In 2012, the Elizabeth Tower reopened to the public after its renovation to celebrate an entire century with the big bell, which remains the largest of its kind in the United Kingdom.

Big Ben is the most recognizable example of the Victorian Gothic Revival architectural style, which became popular during 18th and 19th centuries. In addition to its iconic clock and bell, the Elizabeth Tower also houses five bells that strike the quarter hour. The clock’s designer, Edward John Dent, had previously died before the completion of the tower, and his nephew Frederick Dent took over and saw the tower and clock to completion in 1859.

Big Ben is a timeless representation of London and symbolizes the capital’s rich history and culture, including it’s resilience in times of great adversity. It is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks and remains an important part of the city’s skyline.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Big Ben, London

Big Ben is one of London’s most iconic attractions and the world’s most famous clock. Located in the Houses of Parliament, this iconic clock tower stands at a staggering 316 feet and is remarkable for its beauty and engineering.

Getting There

The best way to get to Big Ben is by taking the London Underground. The nearest tube station is Westminster, which is located along the Jubilee, Circle and District Lines. From there, it’s an easy 5-minute walk to the Houses of Parliament.

Tours of Big Ben

Unfortunately, public tours of the tower are not available at this time. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament instead or enjoy views of the iconic clock from nearby vantage points such as Westminster Bridge.

Hours of Operation

Big Ben is visible at all hours of the day and night, though the clock face is lit up only at night to make its impressive clockwork more visible. During the day visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the Parliament buildings and admire the clock from the outside.

What to Do There

After admiring Big Ben from the outside, there is plenty else to do in the surrounding attractions. Visit Westminster Abbey, the Prime Minister’s residence at 10 Downing Street, Buckingham Palace, or enjoy a stroll along the River Thames. Then, be sure to take the time to sample some delicious refreshments in one of the city’s many cafes, restaurants, or pubs.

There is no shortage of things to do when visiting Big Ben in London. Whether it’s enjoying views from the riverbank, taking a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament, or simply marveling at its beautiful clockwork, a trip to Big Ben is truly something to remember.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Big Ben, London

Q: What is Big Ben?
A: Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, and is usually extended to refer to both the clock and the clock tower.

Q: Who designed Big Ben?
A: The tower was designed by Augustus Pugin in a neo-gothic style.

Q: What is the height of Big Ben?
A: The tower stands at a height of 96 metres (315 ft).

Q: How many faces does Big Ben have?
A: The clock has four clock faces, one each on the four sides of the tower.

Q: What is the name of the bell in the clock?
A: The Great Bell of the clock is known as the ‘Big Ben’.

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