If you’ve ever walked past the Houses of Parliament, you’ve probably heard the deep, resonant toll that tells you a minute has passed. That sound belongs to the Great Bell of Westminster, more popularly known as Big Ben. It isn’t just a clock—it's a piece of history that still draws crowds every hour. In this guide we’ll break down what makes the bell special, how it got its nickname, and the best ways to experience it without the usual crowds.
The bell was cast in 1858 by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry and first rang on July 11, 1859. It was originally meant to be called “The Great Bell” but a journalist’s typo turned “Big Ben” into a worldwide brand. The name stuck, and the tower itself became known as the Elizabeth Tower after the 2012 royal wedding. The bell survived both World Wars, even when its tower was hit during the Blitz. Its resilience adds a layer of pride for Londoners who see it as a symbol of the city’s endurance.
Inside the clock, the Great Bell weighs over 13 tons and is tuned to the note E. When it strikes, a hammer strikes the bell’s side, creating that unmistakable low‑frequency boom. The sound travels far—sometimes reaching across the Thames—so you can hear it from parks, cafés, and even boats on the river. That reach is why the chimes are included in everything from TV shows to airport announcements.
Visiting the Great Bell isn’t as simple as walking up to it. The bell sits high inside the tower, and public access is limited to guided tours that require advance booking. Tours run from March to September, and you’ll need a ticket from the Parliament’s visitor centre. If you’re only interested in hearing the chime, you can catch it from the Westminster Bridge walkway or from the nearby Victoria Embankment—both offer great views and free listening.
Timing matters. The bell strikes every quarter hour, but the full hour chime (with the legendary nine booming notes) happens on the hour. The best moments are early morning or late evening when there’s less foot traffic. During summer evenings, the bell’s sound mixes with the light show on the Victoria Tower, creating a memorable atmosphere.
While you’re there, take a moment to notice the clock’s four-faced design. Each dial is 23 feet in diameter, and the minute hands move in six‑minute jumps. That design was intentional—engineers wanted the clock to be readable from a distance. The whole setup, from the bell to the clock faces, showcases Victorian engineering at its finest.
Quick tip: if you’re on a budget, skip the tower tour and simply enjoy a riverside walk at sunrise. The bell’s first strike of the day can be heard clearly, and it’s a peaceful way to start your London adventure without spending a penny.
Whether you’re a history buff, a romance‑seeking traveler, or just someone who loves a good sound, the Great Bell of Westminster offers something for everyone. Its echo isn’t just a time‑keeper; it’s a reminder that London’s past and present keep ticking together. So next time you’re in the city, pause, listen, and let the chimes tell you a story that’s been ringing for over 150 years.
Get the inside story on the Great Bell of Westminster, the legendary Big Ben everyone hears in London. Dive into its local history, quirky facts, and its place in city life.