Royalty and splendour in the House of Lords tours

Exclusive guided tours focusing on the art and decorative arts of the House of Lords are available on selected Friday evenings throughout 2013.

What does the tour cover?

The finest British artists of their day designed the wonderful frescoes, portraits, statues, thrones, fireplaces and furniture that are explored in a new tour.

The 75 minute long guided tours will run from 5.30pm during spring and summer and offer an exclusive experience after the doors close to the public.

The visit showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of A.W.N. Pugin and Charles Barry and the artistry of William Dyce and Daniel Maclise amongst others.

The tour starts in Sovereign's Entrance and follows the Royal Processional Route through the House of Lords and finishes with a glass of champagne in one of the Palace's private rooms.

Comments from visitors who have attended the Royalty and Splendour in the House of Lords tour:

"We saw more than we expected – very positive experience"

"Very knowledgeable, great for specialists and non specialists alike – I am an Art historian and still found it fascinating"

"Very well designed and paced to give visitor an excellent overview"

"I thoroughly enjoyed it. I thought it was a good length too –maintained my interest throughout"

Times and availability

Visitors attending this tour should arrive at Black Rod's Garden entrance and allow 15 minutes before the tour begins to allow time to pass through security.

Tours are available at 5.30pm, 5.45pm and 6pm on the following Fridays in 2013:

  • 22nd March
  • 12th April
  • 24th May
  • 21st June
  • 5th July
  • 19th July

Booking

Tickets for tours can be booked:

Ticket prices

  • All: £30
  • Disabled visitors: Standard price as listed above (carers have free admission, but will require a ticket for entrance)

Security information

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

Related information

Maps of Parliament Where do I go?

Find your bearings with our maps of the parliamentary estate and the surrounding area.

Tour information

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 or Charing Cross stations.

Cancelled tours

Please note that tours can be cancelled at any time if Parliament has to meet, eg, due to an emergency.

Need a wheelchair?

A limited number of wheelchairs are available if requested in advance. Call 0207 219 3003.

Saturday and Summer Opening

Tours of Parliament are available to all on Saturdays throughout the year and during the Summer Opening period. Tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day itself (subject to availability).