Big Ben

During 2009 Parliament celebrates the 150th anniversary of its world famous Clock Tower, Great Clock and Great Bell.

The name Big Ben is often used to describe the tower, the clock and the bell but the name was first given to the Great Bell. 1859 was the beginning for all three elements when the Clock Tower was completed. The Great Clock started on 31 May, the Great Bell’s strikes were heard for the first time on 11 July and the quarter bells first chimed on 7 September.

Big Ben's 150th anniversary year

View the anniversary year's calendar, send an e-card and download Big Ben ringtones, banners and wallpapers

Building the Clock Tower

Find out how and why the Clock Tower, the Great Clock and the Great Bell were built, from the foundations to the top of the tower

Inside the Clock Tower

Want to know what goes on behind the scenes? Take an online tour and find out how the Great Clock keeps going. 150 years and counting...

Facts and figures

How high? How heavy? How accurate? Everything you ever wanted to know about Big Ben

From the Parliamentary collections

Explore the Parliamentary collections for rare images and unique objects charting Big Ben’s history

Enquiries

Find contact information for the press and public, and frequently asked questions