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Time for the Big Chimes of Big Ben, London

Published by Courtney McConnell, Writer

Country: United Kingdom

The Experience

Stepping out of the London Underground at Westminster, you may be caught off guard by the sheer size of Big Ben as it immediately confronts you. Although it may seem child’s play to take a photo of such a looming stationary subject as one of the world's largest clocks, it actually involves some photographic tact and maneuvering.

Neighbouring the former Palace of Westminster, which was destroyed in 1834, Big Ben was included as part of the new Westminster rebuilt in 1844. Big Ben first rang out over London on May 31, 1859, but the bells cracked just two months later. Rotated and replaced with a lighter hammer, this is the bell we hear today.

The name “Big Ben Clock Tower” is really more of a mishmash of names and references. Typically, people refer to Big Ben as the entire clock tower, when in fact it is only the nickname for the largest bell that rings out on the hour. The formal name for the big bell, although rarely used, is the Great Bell. Surrounded by four smaller bells, Big Ben is eight feet in diameter and weighs 13 tons. While most believe it's the heaviest bell in Britain, it's really in third rank behind Great Paul in St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Great George in Liverpool Catholic Cathedral.

The origin of the name Big Ben is believed to be linked to the name of the original commissioner, Sir Benjamin Hall, who was a larger man, endearingly known as "Big Ben". Over the years, the familiar tune of the Big Ben clock chimes has become a well known identity of London, and people have even created their own lyrics to go along with it. The most popular among those lyrics is, "All through this hour, Lord be my guide; and by thy power, no foot shall slide.”

While Big Ben Clock Tower is a popular attraction in London, the entire area surrounding it is rich in history and culture. A walk across the street will take you to Westminster Abbey; and a twenty minute walk through the St James Park will lead you to Buckingham Palace. Listening to Big Ben on the hour is a great starting point for any cultural experience in London.

Photos

Map

Puzzle

When to Go to Big Ben Clock

Peak tourist season in London is during the summer months of July and August. This is typically when the weather is at its warmest. If you wish to avoid peak season, a good time to visit Big Ben is during the spring or fall. Although spring and fall weather is mild, it is the dampness that can make all the difference. London weather can be very unpredictable, so be prepared for rain or shine.

Odds n' Ends

The Big Ben Clock Tower is not open to the general publish; but if you’re a UK resident, you can write your MP to arrange a visit.

Walk over Westminster Bridge for the best view of London's Big Ben (Big Ben and the House of Parliament in one eyeful).

Places to Eat

Pickles Cafe
Pickles is a nice little cafe with a hometown feel. Serving sandwiches and sweet treats, this place will give you a lot for your money. You might even have something left for later. 6 Old Queen Street Westminster London SW1H 9HP

More Experiences Nearby

On the trail of the best cup of tea in London
London is one of the greatest cities on earth for visitors, but there are so many sights and attractions that sometimes the simple pleasures are just ignored, missed, or not even known about. The English are known for their love of a good cup of tea, so where better to drink it than in the nation’s capital? Finding the best afternoon tea in London can turn into an adventure in and of itself, if you let it. You should surely allow your search to spin you around the fingers of the city in a delectable scavenger hunt for the quintessential ...0 miles away.

Carpe Diem! Book to do this experience now!

Book now
The Original London Sightseeing Tour: Hop-on Hop-off
Customize your own tour by hopping on and off the bus at any stop, as many times as you like. There's a choice of sightseeing ...
Starting from $29.62 per person.

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Books and DVDs

Big Ben: The Bell, the Clock and the Tower
Frommer's England 2010
Big Ben: The Great Clock and the Bells at the Palace of Westminster

Elsewhere on the Web

Big Ben - Parliment.uk

Media References

Houses of Parliament & Big Ben - NYTimes.com (newspaper)

Language Guides

French , Hindi , Italian , Japanese , Mandarin , Portugese , Turkish , Vietnamese are some of the languages spoken in United Kingdom. If you know of a freely available phrase book or podcast for one of the missing languages, let us know!

Discussion

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