Houses of Parliament Houses
The new Palace of Westminster was built in the years following the fire of 16 October 1834 which destroyed nearly all the Old Palace. Work began in 1840 and was substantially completed by 1860, although only in 1870 actually finished. It was formally opened in 1852.
Westminster Hall, which was built between 1097 and 1099 by William Rufus. The Hall has been altered over the centuries and its famous hammer-beam roof was built between 1394 and 1399. The Hall is now used for major public ceremonies. Other buildings to survive are the Crypt of St Mary Undercroft (built between 1292 and 1297) and the Jewel Tower on Abingdon Street (administered by English Heritage).
Members of the public can take a tour of the Palace, which is known as the Line of Route tour. Tours are available to UK residents, overseas visitors and educational organisations. However, different procedures apply depending on the type of group.
The Public Gallery is open to the public when the House is sitting, which is usually:
14.30 - 22.30 or later on Mondays
11.30 - 19.30 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
11.30 - 18.30 on Thursdays
09.30 - 15.00 on sitting Fridays,
When the House returns after a recess on a day other than a Monday, the first day will have Monday sitting times.
Attraction Details
For enquiries about Houses of Parliament, please contact the attraction using the details below.
AddressWestminster, London, Greater London, SW1A 0AA
Opening times9.15am - 4.30pm
Entry costs
Attraction typeHouses
Hotels near Houses of Parliament
Staying overnight in London?
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The Sanctuary House Hotel
Located in the capitals iconic Westminster district, The Sanctuary House Hotel is less than 5 minutes walk from historic Westminster Abbey, the famous Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben..
Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London is set opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, on the South Bank. It is close to the London Eye, the Aquarium, restaurants and theatres. Westminster and Waterloo tube stations are just a short walk away.
Premier Inn London County
Situated beside the London Eye, just 350 metres from Waterloo Station, Premier Inn London County Hall has a 24-hour front desk and international restaurant. South bank is a 15-minute walk away..
Westminster Studio Apartment
Westminster Studio Apartment is an apartment set in London, 500 metres from Houses of Parliament. Westminster Studio Apartment features views of the city and is 500 metres from Westminster Abbey. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.
Fabulous Apartment in Westminster
Situated in London, this apartment is 300 metres from Westminster Abbey. The unit is 400 metres from St Jamess Park. Free WiFi is featured throughout the property.
Premier Inn London Waterloo
Premier Inn London Waterloo is located on the site of the original General Lying-In Maternity Hospital. The London Eye and Waterloo Train and Underground Station are only 2 minutes walk away. Rooms at the hotel feature modern, functional decor.
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