Visitors who tour Parliament will see the focal points of the building, such as the Commons and Lords debating chambers, the Queen's Robing Room and historic Westminster Hall.
Tours
UK residents can tour throughout the year; overseas visitors may only tour on Saturdays and during the Summer Opening. Accompanied by a trained guide, visitors will see the main areas of the Houses of Parliament which are open to the public. Tours take about 75 minutes.
UK residents and overseas visitors may still attend debates and committees throughout the year.
UK residents
Free guided tours are available throughout the year by requesting a place through your MP or a member of the House of Lords. Please note that tours are very popular and places are limited so generally have to be booked about six months in advance.
Alternatively, visitors can pay for a tour on Saturdays and during the Summer Opening. Tickets can be purchased in advance through Ticketmaster (external site) or by queuing on the day.
Overseas visitors
Overseas visitors can only tour Parliament on Saturdays and during the Summer Opening when paid-for tickets can be purchased. However, overseas visitors may still attend debates and committees whenever Parliament is in session.
Families
Please note that tours are not recommended for young children as there is a lot of walking. Pushchairs are allowed, but larger models will not fit in certain areas.
Foreign languages
We regret that we are unable to offer tours in foreign languages except on Saturdays and during the Summer Opening.
Bags
Bags or luggage larger than those permitted in aircraft cabins may be refused entry. Parliament has no facilities for leaving items; commercial outlets are available nearby at Victoria and Charing Cross stations.
Facilities
The tours last around 75 minutes. It is advisable to leave time to visit the facilities prior to your tour. Accessible public toilets are also available at the nearby Westminster tube station. Within Parliament disabled toilets are located off Westminster Hall and Central Lobby.
Security
A number of simple security measures have been put in place for the safety of all our visitors. Please take note of them before and during your visit.
- Searches, similar to those used in airports, will be conducted on entry
- Mobile phones must be turned off
- Cameras cannot be used, except in Westminster Hall
Further details on the security arrangements can be obtained from the Access and security page of the website.