The London Houses of Parliament are more than just a symbol of government—they’re a treasure trove of history, drama, and eccentric detail. We discovered a few facts that made us look twice during our visit. Whether you’re a politics buff or a curious traveler, these 7 fascinating facts will give you a fresh perspective.
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1. Big Ben Isn’t the Name of the Tower
Most people call the whole clock tower “Big Ben,” but that’s actually the nickname for the Great Bell inside. The tower itself was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 in honor of Queen Elizabeth II.
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2. There’s a Jail Cell Inside
Called the “Clock Tower Prison,” it was once used to detain unruly MPs. The last known use was in 1880 when Charles Bradlaugh was held overnight for refusing to swear an oath.
3. The Palace of Westminster Burned Down
The original medieval structure was mostly destroyed by fire in 1834. What you see today was designed by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin in the Gothic Revival style.
4. It Sits on a Tidal River
The Houses of Parliament are built along the Thames—on land that’s affected by tides. A sophisticated system of embankments and flood defenses keeps the water at bay.
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5. There’s a Secret Door Behind the Speaker’s Chair
This hidden passage leads to the Speaker’s private residence. It’s rarely shown to the public but still in use today for swift access during debates.
6. It Has 1,100 Rooms and 100 Staircases
The scale of the building is enormous. With more than three miles of corridors, it’s basically a mini city within a building.
7. The Lords and Commons Can’t Enter Each Other’s Chambers
Tradition holds strong—members of one house must request permission to enter the other’s chamber. Even the monarch isn’t allowed into the House of Commons.
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See Parliament with New Eyes
Now that you know what’s hiding behind the Gothic spires, your visit to the London Houses of Parliament will be packed with extra meaning. It’s not just a backdrop for politics—it’s a building alive with history, mystery, and tradition. To see these details for yourself, join a behind-the-scenes guided tour of the Houses of Parliament.
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