A rare look inside the Palace of Westminster takes visitors from Westminster Hall to the Commons and Lords, with stops at the Royal Staircase, Queen’s Robing Room, and Royal Gallery. Small-group, guided access runs 90 minutes to two hours, with stricter rules on security and photography. Saturday closing-time slots promise quieter corridors and near-empty chambers.
Houses of Parliament tours: What you need to know before you go
Thinking about stepping inside the iconic building where UK laws are made? A Houses of Parliament tour lets you walk the historic corridors, see the famous chambers, and hear stories you won’t get from a quick glance outside. It’s a mix of politics, architecture, and a few surprises that keep even seasoned visitors hooked.
How to book your spot
Booking is simple. Head to the official Parliament website, pick a date, and choose a time slot that works for you. Most tours fill up fast, especially during peak season, so aim to book at least a few weeks ahead. If you’re a student, senior, or military veteran, you can grab a discounted ticket – just have your ID ready when you check in.
There are two main options: a standard 90‑minute group tour and a private 45‑minute version for smaller groups. The group tour covers the Commons Chamber, the Lords Chamber, and the historic Westminster Hall. The private tour skips the crowds, giving you a bit more room to ask questions.
What you’ll see inside
The first stop is usually Westminster Hall, a 900‑year‑old hall that survived the Great Fire of London. Look up at the stunning hammerbeam roof and imagine the centuries of debates that happened there. Next up is the House of Commons – the green‑benched chamber where MP’s argue, vote, and make laws. Even if the session is in recess, you’ll get a peek at the famous Speaker’s chair and the iconic electronic voting screens.
After the Commons, the tour moves to the House of Lords. This chamber feels more like a royal hall, with its red upholstery and historic wooden benches. Guides love pointing out the Westminster Quarters clock, a sound you’ll hear if you ever walk past the tower.
Don’t miss the chance to step into the historic crypts beneath the building. They hold centuries‑old memorials and give a quiet contrast to the bustling chambers above.
Throughout the tour, guides share anecdotes about famous speeches, royal visits, and even the occasional ghost story. Keep an ear out for the tale of the ‘haunted’ clock that supposedly stops when a major political event occurs.
When the tour ends, you can explore the surrounding area. Nearby attractions include the iconic Big Ben, the peaceful St. James’s Park, and the River Thames, perfect for a quick photo stop. Grab a coffee at one of the local cafés, and you’ll feel like a true insider in the heart of London.
To make the most of your visit, dress comfortably – you’ll walk a fair bit and stand for a while. Also, remember that photography is allowed in most public areas but not inside the chambers, so respect the rules.
Ready to walk where history was written? Book your Houses of Parliament tour today and get up close with the very walls that shape the UK’s future.
