houses-of-parliament-palace-of-westminster-london-sigtseeing

The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster or Westminster Palace, is the meeting place of the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom—the House of Lords and the House of Commons. It is the home of  British Government and as well as being of immense historic importance is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Westminster Palace along with the adjacent Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO designated world heritage site.

westminster palace london sightseeing tourist attraction

Overseas Visitors

Overseas visitors can only tour Parliament during the Summer Opening, when paid-for tickets are available. However, overseas visitors can attend debates and watch the MPS in action throughout the year by visiting the public galleries when Parliament is meeting.

Summer Opening

Tickets to tour Parliament during the Summer Opening are available to purchase from 1 March.

Tours are arranged during the summer recess, when Parliament will not be sitting and Members work away from Westminster. Tours run from Monday to Saturday inclusive, but not on Sundays or Bank Holidays. Tours take about 75 minutes and include the Commons and Lords Chamber’s, the Queen’s Robing Room, the Royal Gallery and Westminster Hall.

Opening hours

Saturdays from 3rd July onwards between 9.15am and 4.30pm.

August 2nd – 27th

On Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday between 9.15am and 4.30pm.On Wednesday and Thursday between 1.15pm and 4.30pm.

September and October

Monday, Friday and Saturday between 9.15am and 4.30pm.On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 1.15pm and 4.30pm.

LOCATION AND TRAVEL

Address:
Houses of Parliament
Palace of Westminster
Westminster
London SW1A 0AA

Underground: Westminster (Jubilee/Circle & District lines)
The Palace of Westminster (also commonly known as the Houses of Parliament) is directly opposite the station exit (look out for Big Ben!).

Charing Cross – Northern line south to Embankment, Circle or District line west to Westminster
Kings Cross/St Pancras - Victoria line south to Green Park, Jubilee line south/east to Westminster
Paddington - Bakerloo line south/east to Baker Street, Jubilee line south/east to Westminster
Victoria - Circle or District line east to Westminster
Liverpool Street – Circle line to Westminster
Marylebone – Bakerloo line south/east to Baker Street, Jubilee line south/east to Westminster
Waterloo - Jubilee line north/west to Westminster

Parking: Parking in central London can be difficult and expensive. Please use public transport.