About Big Ben
Highlights Of Big Ben
- The shape of Big Ben clock tower has become famous all over the world because of its uniqueness and it has now become a symbol of London.
- Big Ben London represents the history of ages as its construction started in 1843 and lasted till 1859.
- The bell placed on the top weighs around 15.1 tons and carrying it all the way up and placing it to perfection was done through a well-planned process.
- Even today the above part of the clock tower is illuminated when parliament is in session.
- The clock of the Big Ben Clock Tower is accurate and has barely ever stopped working.
- The tour charges to climb Big Ben were absolutely free, but recently the tour to Big Ben was put to a stop due to the restoration work which began in 2017.
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History Of Big Ben
- Big Ben located in the northern region of Westminster in London represents both British Parliament and Democracy.
- Big Ben’s construction started in the year 1843 and was completed by 1859
- The space above the clock is always illuminated when Parliament is in session.
- History of Big Ben London runs back to the age of its construction, i e 1843.
- The construction was completed within a span of 16 years and the building has been administered for restoration work 3 times, 1943, 1956 and in 2017 respectively.
- When the palace of Westminster was set on fire, it was decided that the next Parliament should have a clock tower too, which led to the construction of Big Ben.
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Facts About Big Ben
- The official name of Big Ben London was clock tower and unofficially it was addressed as Big Ben.
- Big Ben is believed to be named after Sir. Benjamin Hall, who was the President of the boards back then.
- It took 16 years to complete Big Ben's construction (1843-1859).
- Restoration projects of Big Ben happened in the years 1934, 1956 and 2017.
- The great bell of Big Ben weighs 15.1 tons.
- The Clock Tower is known for its accuracy and four sides facing striking chimes
- Recognized as the largest ever clock tower in the world.
- The official name Clock Tower was renamed to Elizabeth Tower in the year 2012.
- The name was changed in accordance with the diamond jubilee function of Queen Elizabeth II.
- Big Ben's time keeping is strictly monitored and regulated by a stack of coins placed on a huge pendulum.
- When the British parliament is in session, the light above the clock faces is illuminated.
- On 31st December 1923, the chimes of Big Ben were broadcasted on BBC for the first time and the practice continues till date.
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Know Before You Go To Big Ben
Usually tours to Big Ben London are absolutely free and the safety is ensured while climbing the stairs. Big Ben is open to tourists throughout the year and a complete tour around the same almost takes 1-1:30 hours time. However, due to the recent restoration work, it was closed and only Sundays were open for visitors. Apart from Big Ben, there are a number of other historical monuments in the nearby localities and all of them are worth visiting for their artwork and amazing architecture.
Location: North region Westminster, London, United Kingdom.
Timings: Currently closed due to the restoration work, expected to open by Spring 2023.
Best time to visit: Evening time is the most recommended time to visit Big Ben.
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There are multiple options to reach "Big Ben'' located at the North End of the Houses of Parliament in Westminster London. Several bus routes go past Big Ben from all parts of London. Apart from bus services, they also have tube stations just across the road of Westminster.
- By Bus: Bus nos that go to Big Ben’s side are 12, 88, 1148, 159
- By Train: Nearest train station is Westminster underground nstation is the one in close proximity to Big Ben. Walkable distance from the train station.
- By Tube: Towerhill Underground Station is the nearest, right across the road Big Ben
- By Car: Personal car and cab facilities from any part of London.
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FAQs
Why is Big Ben called Big Ben?
Big Ben London is named after Sir. Benjamin Hall, the first commissioner of works, a large body structure in nature who was affectionately called "Big Ben".
What is Big Ben famous for?
The large Big Ben clock tower unofficially called Big Ben London is famous for its accuracy and massive hour bell weighing up to 15.1 tons. It is recognized as the world’s largest clock tower, four side facing and with striking chimes. Additionally Big Ben has also become an Integral part of London representing both the Parliament and Democracy.
How big is Big Ben?
Big Ben is 316 feet tall and has a square base of 40 feet on each side. It takes around 334 steps to climb stairs till the up. The massive hour bell in Big Ben weighs up to 15.1 tons.
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Was Big Ben rebuilt?
Big Ben London was restored and repaired for maintenance work in 1934, 1956, and 2017. The last restoration project carried out in 2017 for Big Ben was a five year-long project to match up the efficiency by upgrading it to the millennial facilities of the 21st century.
What is the best time to visit Big Ben?
Since the restoration was actively happening from 2017 to the present, the tower was open to the public only on Sundays from 9 am to 4:15 pm. Very recently Big Ben London is all ready to shine in its full glory and open to the public, new timings and instructions regarding the same.