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.
Westminster Hall – the building that’s seen more than 900 years of British history
If you’ve ever walked past the Houses of Parliament, you’ve probably glanced at the massive stone structure attached to it: Westminster Hall. It’s not just another old building; it’s the heart of the UK’s political story, and surprisingly, a spot that pops up in the world of motorsport too.
Built in 1097 by King William II, the hall survived fires, wars and even a crown‑jewel heist. Its hammerbeam roof, added in the 14th century, still dominates the interior and gives the place that unmistakable cathedral‑like feel. Over the centuries, it has hosted coronations, trials, and the signing of the Magna Carta’s later copies. In short, it’s a living museum of everything that shaped Britain.
A quick tour of Westminster Hall’s past
When you step inside, you’ll spot the famous Image of the Virgin and Child, a medieval painting that’s survived more than seven hundred years. The hall’s floor is marked with the tall wooden planks where the original Tudor court heard cases, and the walls are lined with memorials to famous judges and politicians.
One of the most dramatic moments happened in 1399 when King Richard II was seized in the hall before being forced to abdicate. Fast‑forward to 1603, when James VI of Scotland became James I of England and took his oath on this very floor. Even the State Opening of Parliament still uses the hall for the ceremonial display of the Crown Jewels.
Why motorsport fans should care about Westminster Hall
It might sound odd, but the hall often plays a part in the motorsport calendar. The British Grand Prix awards ceremony, for example, has been held here for special occasions, giving drivers a chance to stand on a stage steeped in history. Pressure is higher when you’re being honored under a roof that’s seen kings and queens crowned.
Beyond ceremonies, Westminster Hall is where key decisions about racing regulations are debated. The Department for Transport and the Motor Sports Association sometimes use its conference rooms for talks that shape everything from safety standards to green‑tech incentives. That means the hall indirectly influences the speed, safety, and sustainability of the races you love.
For fans who love a good story, the hall offers a perfect backdrop for podcasts, panels, and meet‑ups. Imagine listening to a former F1 champion discuss his career while the ancient beams loom overhead. The mix of old‑world gravitas and high‑octane excitement makes for a memorable experience that you can’t get at a typical race track.
If you ever get the chance to attend an event at Westminster Hall, bring a notebook. You’ll be rubbing shoulders with decision‑makers, hearing insider insights, and walking the same stones that have hosted centuries of British drama. It’s a reminder that motorsport isn’t just about fast cars; it’s also about the laws, culture, and history that let the sport thrive.
So next time you’re scrolling through the latest F1 results, remember there’s a historic hall in London where some of the biggest racing conversations happen behind closed doors. Westminster Hall may be ancient, but it’s very much a part of today’s motorsport world.
