FAQs about Big Ben London
Big Ben is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and a globally recognized symbol of the United Kingdom. Standing tall at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, it attracts millions of visitors each year. Its history, architecture, and cultural significance make it a must-know topic for travelers, historians, and anyone curious about London’s heritage.
On this page, we’ll cover frequently asked questions that explore the origins, design, and fascinating facts about Big Ben.
1. What is Big Ben?
Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock located in the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. Over time, the name “Big Ben” has also come to refer to both the tower and the clock itself.
2. When was Big Ben built?
Construction of the tower began in 1843 and was completed in 1859. The clock started operating on 31 May 1859, and the Great Bell first struck in July 1859.
3. Who designed Big Ben?
The tower was designed by architect Charles Barry, with the clock designed by Augustus Pugin. The clock mechanism was engineered by Edmund Beckett Denison and Edward John Dent.
4. How tall is Big Ben?
The Elizabeth Tower, which houses Big Ben, is 96 meters (315 feet) tall.
5. Why is it called Big Ben?
The name’s origin is debated. Some say it was named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the installation of the Great Bell, while others believe it was named after heavyweight boxing champion Benjamin Caunt.
6. Can visitors go inside Big Ben?
UK residents can arrange tours through a Member of Parliament, but international visitors currently cannot access the inside of the tower. However, the exterior can be admired from Westminster Bridge and Parliament Square.
7. How accurate is Big Ben’s clock?
Big Ben is renowned for its accuracy. The mechanism uses a stack of old British pennies as weights to fine-tune the pendulum’s timing.
8. Has Big Ben ever stopped?
Yes, Big Ben has stopped on rare occasions due to mechanical failures, weather conditions, or maintenance. However, it remains one of the most reliable clocks in the world.
9. Is Big Ben lit up at night?
Yes, the clock faces are illuminated at night, making it a striking sight in the London skyline.
10. What happened to Big Ben during World War II?
During the Blitz in World War II, the Palace of Westminster suffered bombing damage, but the clock tower and Big Ben survived and continued to strike, serving as a symbol of resilience.
11. Has Big Ben undergone restoration?
Yes, major renovations took place from 2017 to 2022, during which the bells were largely silenced, except for special occasions like New Year’s Eve and Remembrance Sunday.
12. Where is Big Ben located?
Big Ben is located at the Palace of Westminster, Westminster, London, United Kingdom.
