The Houses of Parliament, officially the Palace of Westminster, occupies the north bank of the River Thames in Westminster. It is the meeting place of the House of Commons and House of Lords, and a striking example of Gothic Revival design by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin. From outside, look for the building’s towers and ornate stonework; across the river, the South Bank gives you a broad view with Elizabeth Tower in the frame. Tours take visitors through historic rooms and explain how Parliament works.
A palace rebuilt in the 19th century
The Palace of Westminster has been associated with government for centuries. Edward the Confessor established a palace on the site in the 11th century, and William II built a new one in 1097. The complex became a centre of English power.
A fire in 1834 destroyed most of the older palace. The building that now stands beside the Thames dates largely from the 19th century. Charles Barry led its design, with Augustus Pugin responsible for much of the Gothic detailing. The rebuilt palace was completed in 1870 and remains in regular use.
Gothic Revival details
The exterior is marked by towers, spires and elaborate stonework. Inside, decorative panelling, carvings and gilt-work bring the Gothic Revival style into the public rooms. Barry’s architectural design and Pugin’s ornament give the complex much of its distinctive character.
Westminster Hall is the oldest part of the complex. Its medieval hammer-beam roof is a notable feature, and the hall has been used for events including coronation banquets and trials. A visit here gives a sense of the site’s earlier history alongside the 19th-century palace.
How Parliament works here
The House of Commons and House of Lords meet in the Palace of Westminster. Both take part in making laws, scrutinising the government’s work and debating issues facing the country.
A tour of Parliament can take you through historic rooms and explain how laws are passed and how the monarchy relates to government. The building is also used for public talks and events. Photography is not permitted in some areas, so check the signs and follow staff instructions while inside.
Views from the Thames
The Palace stretches along the river between Elizabeth Tower and Victoria Tower. For a view that takes in the building and the Thames, cross Westminster Bridge to the South Bank. The riverside walkway and the area by the bridge provide different angles, with Elizabeth Tower rising above the roofline.
The Palace is often seen alongside Elizabeth Tower, whose bell is known as Big Ben. The name refers to the bell, not the tower. From across the river, the architecture and its riverside setting are easy to appreciate without entering the parliamentary buildings.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you visit inside the Houses of Parliament?
Tours take visitors through historic rooms and explain the work of Parliament. Public talks and events are also held in the buildings.
What is the official name of the Houses of Parliament?
The building is officially called the Palace of Westminster.
Where can you get a good view of the Palace of Westminster?
The South Bank, across the Thames, gives a view of the Palace and Elizabeth Tower.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is restricted in some areas.
