10 BEST FACTS ABOUT BIG BEN IN LONDON IN 2024
The allure of Big Ben in London transcends mere sightseeing; it encapsulates a profound sense of awe and wonder that resonates with all who stand in its presence. From the intricate details etched into its grand facade to the melodic chimes that echo through the air, every aspect of this majestic structure tells a story waiting to be discovered.

10 FACTS ABOUT BIG BEN AND ITS HISTORY
Historic Fact:
Big Ben, the iconic bell within the Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, carries a rich history from its naming to its operations, including redesigns and renovations.
Name Origin:
Sir Benjamin Hall is thought to be the inspiration behind Big Ben’s name. During the bell casting and testing, he served as the First Commissioner for Works.
Nickname:
The bell that hangs in the clock tower is known as Big Ben.
Common Misnomer:
Due to its size, the tower is called “Big Ben” by most people, including those in London.
Historical Predecessor:
Constructed more than 700 years ago, the clock tower was the original clock tower on site. It had a single bell and the Big Ben clock dial. On October 16, 1834, it was destroyed in a fire.
Fire Rebuild:
After the ancient Palace of Westminster was mostly destroyed by fire on October 16, 1834, Charles Barry designed a new palace, including the tower and clock.
The Tower of Today:
Work started in 1834 and was finished in 1859 making the age of the tower more than 160 years old.
Clock Design:
Designed by Edmund Beckett Denison, the clock, took 13 years to construct and was finished in 1859.
First Pealing:
It was heard over London on 11th July 1859.
Broken Down:
Ever since then, it has rung every hour, except for a few months in 1976 when repairs were necessary due to a breakdown.
Renaming Event:
It was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in September 2012, in honor of the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.
ARE YOU VISITING BIG BEN IN LONDON ON YOUR VISIT TO THIS MARVELLOUS CITY?
Stepping into the shadow of Big Ben, prepare to be mesmerized by its sheer size and grandiosity. The intricate craftsmanship of its gothic style architecture will draw your eyes upwards towards the towering spire, while the rhythmic sounds of its clockwork mechanism will transport you back in time. As you wander around Parliament Square, don’t forget to look out for other nearby attractions like Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace each adding their own unique charm to this historical hub.
VISITING BIG BEN IN LONDON FROM THE OUTSIDE
Gazing up at Big Ben from street level reveals intricate Gothic details and ornate carvings that tell tales of centuries past. The imposing structure commands attention with its impressive height and timeless elegance. As you stand in awe beneath its shadow, take a moment to appreciate the subtle nuances in its design from delicate arches to intricate columns that make this architectural masterpiece truly unforgettable.

BIG BEN AND THE ELIZABETH TOWER TOUR
As you ascend the narrow, winding staircase inside the Elizabeth Tower, each step brings you closer to the iconic Big Ben. The intricate details of the clock mechanism are a mesmerizing display of engineering brilliance, showcasing centuries old craftsmanship that continues to keep time with unparalleled precision. As the clock chimes resonate through the tower, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe at being in such close proximity to this symbol of British history.
The panoramic views from atop Big Ben offer a unique perspective of London, with sprawling cityscapes and historic landmarks stretching out beneath you. The hustle and bustle of London life seems distant as you gaze out over the Thames River and beyond. It’s a moment that invites reflection on the passage of time and our place in history.

THE BIG BEN TOWER AND CLOCK IN NUMBERS

- It is 334 steps up to the belfry from the ground level, and the tower stands 316 feet, 96 meters tall.
- The external masonry base measures 40 feet, 12 meters on each side.
- In total, the turret clock mechanism weighs 5.08 tones.
- It has four 9 foot or 2.7 meter diameter faces, making it one of the world’s largest clocks with hourly chimes and strikes.
- The figures on the clock face measure around 2 feet long or 0.61 meters, and the minute spaces are 1 foot or 0.30 meters long. In terms of weight, Big Ben is the biggest of the five bells, weighing 13 tones.
- Big Ben rings every hour. A short melody is played every 15 minutes by the four smaller quarter bells, which chime on the quarter hours.
- On 31 May 1859, Big Ben rang for the first time. It wasn’t long before Big Ben cracked, in September 1859. The bell rotated to display an undamaged portion of the hammer when a lighter hammer was fitted.
- The large bell weighs 13.7 tones and was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. It is 2.2 meters (7 feet, 2 ½ inches) in height and has a diameter of 2.7 meters (8 feet, 10 inches).
- At the time of its completion, the clock was the world’s largest and most accurate four-faced striking and chiming clock. In addition to being reliable, the pendulum can be adjusted by adding or removing pre-decimal pennies.
- The clock dials are 22.5 feet (6.9 m) in diameter. A clock mechanism strikes the bells with hammers. The mechanism is powered by large weights wound three times a week.
- Electricity is only used to wind it and to illuminate the faces so that it can be seen in the dark.
RENOVATIONS OF THE BIG BEN CLOCK
The renovations of the iconic Big Ben clock have sparked both excitement and controversy among Londoners and tourists alike. The intricate process involves carefully dismantling each piece of the clock mechanism for cleaning, repairs, and upgrades. The project aims to restore the clock’s accuracy and ensure its durability for generations to come.
One fascinating aspect of the renovations is the use of modern technology alongside traditional craftsmanship. Advanced tools help craftsmen precisely recreate damaged parts while preserving the historical integrity of the clock. This harmonious blend showcases a dedication to both honoring tradition and embracing innovation in historic preservation efforts.
HOW TO GET TO BIG BEN CLOCK TOWER
To get to Big Ben Clock Tower, one can embark on a picturesque stroll along the River Thames from Westminster Pier. This leisurely walk offers stunning views of iconic London landmarks and allows visitors to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Taking a cruise on the river provides a unique perspective of Big Ben and allows for memorable photo opportunities against the backdrop of London’s skyline.
HOTELS NEAR ELIZABETH TOWER BIG BEN
There is a wide range of hotels surrounding Big Ben, offering everything from luxurious 5-star accommodations to budget friendly accommodations, ensuring a memorable stay in the heart of London.

- London Marriott Hotel County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road – 5 Star
- Corinthia London, Westminster Borough – 5 Star
- Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London – 4 Star
- The Wellington Hotel – 3 Star
- The Sanctuary House Hotel, Westminster – 3 Star
FAQs
What is the Big Ben in London about?
Unfortunately, the interior Big Ben is probably the world’s most famous clock. That iconic silhouette is instantly recognizable and is one of the most Instagram med landmarks on the planet. Six monarchs and 41 prime ministers have come and gone since the bells first struck their now familiar music across Westminster of Big Ben is not open to the public for tours.
Is Big Ben in London free?
UK residents can request a free Big Ben tour by contacting a Member of the House of Commons or House of Lords directly.
Is Big Ben the biggest clock in the world?
Officially renamed the Elizabeth Tower to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee (prior to 2012 it was known as simply the ‘Clock Tower’) it stands 315 feet high (96 meters) and holds the second largest four-faced chiming clock in the world (Minneapolis City Hall has the first).
When did Big Ben died?
Big Ben, Canada’s most famous show jumping horse, died early Saturday, Dec. 11, from colic. He was 23.
Is London famous for Big Ben?
Big Ben is a tower clock known for its accuracy and for its massive hour bell. Strictly speaking, the name refers only to the bell, which weighs 15.1 tons (13.7 metric tons), but it is commonly associated with the whole clock tower at the northern end of the Houses of Parliament, in the London borough of Westminster.
What Colour is Big Ben in London?
The dials and clock hands are Prussian blue and gold and the adjacent areas make use of the red, white and blue colours of the Union flag,” he said. The black paint on the stonework around the clock dials has been removed and certain features have been gilded again.
Does Big Ben still work?
“Clock mechanics worked quickly to rectify the issue and the clock is now functioning as normal.” The 13-tonne Big Ben bell was largely silenced for five years while a major restoration of the Elizabeth Tower took place, with the “bongs” finally resuming regular service in November 2022.
Can we go inside Big Ben?
Visitors must be aged 11 and over and be comfortable climbing 334 steps and experiencing high noise levels from the clock mechanism and bells earplugs will be provided. The total tour duration is 90 minutes and toilet facilities are available at the beginning and end of the tour only.