Houses of Parliament Tickets & Tours

Official tickets

Explore the iconic Houses of Parliament in London with an audio guide. Visit historic chambers and upgrade for Westminster Abbey access.

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Houses of Parliament Tickets

The Houses of Parliament tickets provide exclusive access to Westminster Palace, the working heart of British democracy for over 900 years. You'll explore the same historic chambers where prime ministers debate, monarchs deliver speeches, and centuries of political decisions have shaped the nation. These guided tours take you through both the House of Commons with its famous green benches and the House of Lords with its red leather seating and golden throne.

Your visit includes Westminster Hall, dating back to 1097 and representing one of Europe's finest medieval halls. This remarkable space has hosted coronation banquets, state trials, and lying-in-state ceremonies throughout history. The tour also covers the Central Lobby where political discussions continue today, plus intricate Gothic Revival architecture designed by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin following the devastating 1834 fire. You'll admire stunning stained glass windows, ornate stone carvings, and detailed decorations throughout the palace.

Highlights

House of Commons chamber with its famous green benches where heated political debates occur

House of Lords chamber featuring red leather benches and the golden throne used for state occasions

Westminster Hall, a magnificent medieval space dating to 1097 that has witnessed nearly 1,000 years of British history

Central Lobby where politicians, journalists, and visitors gather for political discussions

Gothic Revival architecture with intricate stone carvings and stunning stained glass windows

Exclusive parliamentary merchandise and souvenirs available only within the palace

Plan Your Visit to Houses of Parliament

Tours operate every Saturday throughout the year, with additional weekday sessions available when Parliament is in recess during holidays and summer months. Standard guided tours last 75-90 minutes and are led by knowledgeable Blue Badge guides who share fascinating stories about British political history and parliamentary procedures. All tours include audio headsets ensuring clear commentary throughout your visit.

Arrive 30 minutes early for comprehensive security screening similar to airport procedures. Bring photo identification matching your ticket, and note that large bags, food, drinks, and sharp objects are prohibited inside. Smart casual attire is recommended, and avoid clothing with political slogans or offensive images. Photography is permitted in most areas, though restrictions apply in certain chambers during active parliamentary sessions.

While exploring Westminster, consider visiting Westminster Abbey tickets to see where British monarchs have been crowned for nearly 1,000 years. You can also discover more of London's political heritage with Churchill War Rooms tickets, located just a short walk away in the historic government district.

Good to know

Know before you go
  • Security Requirements: Arrive 30 minutes early for comprehensive security screening. Large bags, food, drinks, and sharp objects are prohibited inside the palace.

  • Dress Code: Smart casual attire is recommended. Avoid wearing clothing with political slogans, offensive language, or images that might be deemed inappropriate.

  • Photography Rules: Photography is generally permitted but flash photography and filming are restricted. Certain areas may have additional photography limitations during your visit.

  • Accessibility Options: Wheelchair accessible routes available with advance notice. Audio enhancement equipment can be provided for hearing-impaired visitors when requested through tickadoo.

  • Tour Languages: Tours are primarily conducted in English with audio headsets provided. Limited foreign language tours may be available during peak tourist seasons.

  • Weather Considerations: The palace interior is climate-controlled year-round. However, some areas may be cooler, so bringing a light jacket is advisable regardless of season.

  • Booking Flexibility: Tours can be cancelled due to parliamentary business. tickadoo offers flexible rebooking options and full refunds when official cancellations occur beyond visitor control.

Visitor guidelines
  • Arrive on time for your selected slot to guarantee entry

  • Bring photo ID matching your ticket

  • Food, drinks and sharp items are not allowed inside

  • Respect silence in designated areas to maintain the ambiance

  • Follow all on-site instructions from staff and security

Cancellation policy

Cannot be canceled or rescheduled

Frequently asked

How long do Houses of Parliament tours last?

Standard guided tours last approximately 75-90 minutes, covering the main chambers, Westminster Hall, and Central Lobby with detailed commentary throughout.

Can I visit Big Ben during my Houses of Parliament tour?

Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) requires separate tickets and is currently restricted to UK residents only due to ongoing restoration work and safety regulations.

Are Houses of Parliament tours available year-round?

Tours operate every Saturday throughout the year, with additional weekday tours available when Parliament is in recess during holidays and summer months.

What security measures should I expect?

Comprehensive security screening similar to airports is required. Large bags, food, drinks, and certain personal items are prohibited inside the palace.

Are the Houses of Parliament accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, accessible routes are available for visitors with mobility challenges, though advance notification when booking through tickadoo is highly recommended.

Can I take photographs during the tour?

Photography is permitted in most areas of the Houses of Parliament, though restrictions apply in certain chambers and during active parliamentary sessions.

Do children need tickets for Houses of Parliament tours?

Yes, all visitors regardless of age require tickets. Family discounts may be available, and children must be accompanied by adults throughout the tour.

What happens if Parliament is recalled during my scheduled tour?

Tours may be cancelled or modified if Parliament is unexpectedly recalled. tickadoo customers are typically offered alternative dates or full refunds in such situations.

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