Elizabeth Tower

While many refer to the entire clock tower as Big Ben, the name "Big Ben" actually refers to the Great Bell inside the tower. The official name of the tower is the Elizabeth Tower, and it was previously known as the Clock Tower.

Big Ben is not the name of the clock or the tower itself, but of the massive bell housed within. The Great Bell, which chimes the hours, weighs over 13 tons. It was cast in 1858 and is officially known as the Great Bell of the Elizabeth Tower.

The construction of the tower began in 1843 and was completed in 1859. The tower stands at a height of 316 feet (96 meters) and has 334 steps. It was designed by architect Augustus Pugin in the Gothic Revival style.

The clock within the tower is renowned for its accuracy and has a remarkable mechanism. The clock's accuracy is maintained by adding or removing old penny coins on the pendulum. Each addition or removal changes the pendulum's weight and adjusts the timekeeping.

Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower are iconic symbols of London and the United Kingdom. They are situated at the north end of the Palace of Westminster (Houses of Parliament) and overlook the River Thames. The tower has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and other media, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks globally.

Is situated right in the heart of the metropolis. If you cross the Thames via Westminster Bridge from the direction of the London Eye, it's directly in front of you and you'll have a great view of the whole tower and the adjacent parliament building.

Located in the London borough of St. James, Big Ben is within easy walking distance of numerous other sightseeing attractions. Just around the corner is the famous Westminster Abbey, and Tate Museum is only a 15-minute walk along the Thames. Buckingham Palace is also within a 15-minute radius.