Big Ben in London
What is Big Ben?
The Houses of Parliament and the Elizabeth Tower, often called Big Ben, are famous landmarks in London. Big Ben actually refers to the huge bell inside the tower, which weighs over 13 tons (13,760 kg). The clock tower looks amazing at night when the four clock faces light up.
Who designed and made Big Ben?
Big Ben was designed by Edmund Beckett Denison and Sir George Airy, the Astronomer Royal. It was made by Edward John Dent and Frederick Dent.
When was Big Ben built?
The Palace of Westminster was destroyed by fire in 1834. In 1844, it was decided that the new Houses of Parliament should have a tower and a clock.
A large bell was needed, but the first one, made by John Warner & Sons in Stockton-on-Tees, cracked badly. The metal was melted down and a new bell was cast in Whitechapel in 1858.
Big Ben first rang on May 31, 1859. However, it cracked a few months later, in September 1859. A lighter hammer was used, and the bell was rotated so that an undamaged part faced the hammer. This is the bell we hear today.
Fun facts about Big Ben
• Each clock face is 7 meters (23 feet) across.
• The minute hands are 4.2 meters (14 feet) long and weigh about 100 kg (220 lbs) including the counterweights.
• The numbers on the clock are about 60 cm (23 inches) long.
• Each clock face has 312 pieces of glass.
• A special light above the clock faces turns on when Parliament is in session.
• Big Ben’s timekeeping is carefully managed by a stack of coins on the large pendulum.
• Big Ben rarely stops working.
• The BBC first broadcast the chimes of Big Ben on December 31, 1923, and they still do so today.
• In June 2012, the clock tower was renamed Elizabeth Tower to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.
How tall is Big Ben?
Elizabeth Tower is over 96 meters (105 yards) tall. It has 334 steps to reach the belfry and 399 steps to get to the Ayrton Light at the top.
Where is Big Ben?
Big Ben is located in the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, Central London, next to the River Thames.
You can easily reach it by several London bus routes that pass by the tower. Westminster Tube station is just across the road, with access to the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines. Additionally, Westminster Pier is nearby, offering various river bus options.
Why is Big Ben called Big Ben?
The name "Big Ben" has two main theories behind it:
1. Sir Benjamin Hall Theory: It might be named after Sir Benjamin Hall, the first Commissioner of Works. He was a large man and was affectionately known as "Big Ben" in the house.
2. Benjamin Caunt Theory: It could also be named after Benjamin Caunt, a heavyweight boxing champion of the time. The nickname "Big Ben" was used for anything particularly large or heavy, so it might have been applied to the bell.
Big Ben chimes
Ever wanted to hear what Big Ben sounds like at midday? Then you must go and experience it yourself!
Big Ben Chimes Midday / Noon / 12, London
Video by Iain Henderson (IainH124A)
What is the closest Tube station to Big Ben?
The closest Tube station to Big Ben is Westminster, which is just a two-minute walk away. It’s served by the District, Circle, and Jubilee lines.
Several bus routes also stop near the Houses of Parliament.
If you prefer cycling, you can find Santander Cycles docking stations nearby at Smith Square and Abingdon Green.
Lykkers, after visiting Big Ben, you might want to explore more of London. Check out other must-see attractions, dining spots, shopping areas, and the best musicals to make the most of your day in the capital! See you next time!
