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
Local Hotels
Staying overnight at Houses of Parliament?
We've teamed up with Booking.com to provide the best room rates for hotels near the vicinity of Houses of Parliament.
Ratings
Have you been to Houses of Parliament? Please rate this attraction to assist others.