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Looking for something a little different to do over the holiday season? Take a break from the selection boxes, carol concerts and telly repeats, by whisking the family away on a tour of the Palace of Westminster!
This is a chance to walk in the footsteps of iconic leaders, exploring spaces where laws are made, shaped and debated. These include the House of Commons Chamber, with its famous green benches, and the red-upholstered House of Lords Chamber (how’s that for festively coloured?). You’ll also get to see inside Central Lobby (which Brits will recognise from the evening news), and bask in the breathtaking beauty of Westminster Hall — the oldest building on the parliamentary estate.
As the home of UK Parliament, the Palace of Westminster is a must-visit for anyone with even a casual interest in UK politics and democracy. But they’re also great shout if you like to ogle spectacular interiors (peep Central Lobby’s ornate tiling and the gilded throne in the House of Lords Chamber), have a passion for history (Westminster Hall has hosted everything from state trials to coronation banquets over its 900-year history), or are just after a day out that a variety of ages can enjoy.
Tours take place at weekends and on selected weekdays — click below to plan your visit.
Explore All The Tours
With the Palace of Westminster self-guided audio tour, you’re free to explore at your leisure. It includes a multimedia device with audio and visual content in 10 languages: English, British Sign Language, Welsh, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin, Russian, and Brazilian Portuguese.
We’d particularly recommend the audio tour for families — young ones can spend more time in the areas that interest them most and take breaks as needed. There’s also a children’s audio option, which includes fun and engaging learning content specifically for children up to 11. What’s more, you get a free child ticket (5-15) with every full-paying adult ticket.
Book An Audio Tour
Prefer some IRL expert commentary? Opt for a guided tour instead! Each one lasts 90 minutes, and you’ll have the chance to ask your clued-up guide any burning questions on your mind. Plus, 16-24 year olds in your group can nab discounted tickets (this applies to the audio tour, too!)
Book A Guided Tour
Whichever tour you opt for, we highly recommend rounding off your visit to the Palace of Westminster with a stop in the Jubilee Café (located just off Westminster Hall). Here you’ll find a range of hot and cold snacks and drinks available to purchase. It’s right next to the Jubilee Shop, too — handy if you’ve got some last-minute gift shopping to do!
Plan Your Visit
All images by Jessica Taylor © UK Parliament
