Big Ben is a must-do experience for any first-time visitor to the United Kingdom. Although people commonly refer to the tower, bell, and clock together as Big Ben, in actuality, the name only refers to the bell. The tower, which was built in 1859, is called Elizabeth Tower, and the clock is called the Great Clock. Unfortunately, Elizabeth Tower, with its 399 steps to the top, is closed to tours from 2016 to 2021 for refurbishment. However, visitors can tour the interior virtually from the Parliament website, and of course take photos of the outside in person. There is also an illustrated guide book for purchase.
Parliament Square, Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, UK, Phone: +4-40-20-72-19-42-72