Big Ben (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Big Ben?
What makes it 83% Couple-Friendly: Pairs can share sunrise or night views from Westminster Bridge, picnic in Victoria Tower Gardens, and, if eligible, join the tower tour, creating romantic memories in 1–2 relaxed hours.
Positives:
- Central location: Close to Westminster Abbey and the London Eye for easy combo visits.
- Free exterior access: Admire the Gothic architecture without paying an entry fee.
Challenges:
- Peak-hour crowds: Midday visitors can make the bridge and gardens crowded.
- Street performer tips: Photographers and magicians often expect gratuities for photos.
What is Big Ben?
- A 98-metre Gothic Revival clock tower rising at the north end of the Palace of Westminster
- Home to the Great Bell known as Big Ben and featuring a four-faced Victorian clock mechanism
- An enduring national symbol of Britain that punctuates London’s skyline
What is so special about Big Ben for couple trip?
- Capture romantic sunrise shots on Westminster Bridge
- Unwind with a riverside picnic in Victoria Tower Gardens
- Explore Big Ben’s history via a self-guided audio tour
- Enjoy a memorable dinner cruise with illuminated views
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Time to stroll the riverside, take photos, and enjoy a picnic near Big Ben.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Big Ben
Sunrise photo walk on Westminster Bridge:
Experience the tower lit by the first light with fewer crowds.
Tip: Arrive before 7 AM and use a tripod for sharp low-light shots.
Picnic in Victoria Tower Gardens:
Relax on the lawn with direct views of the clock tower.
Tip: Grab sandwiches from a nearby café and bring a blanket.
Self-guided audio tour of Parliament Square:
Learn the history of the tower and surrounding landmarks.
Tip: Download the free GPS audio app before your visit.
Dinner cruise on the Thames:
Enjoy a three-course meal while passing Big Ben by night.
Tip: Book the 7 PM departure to see the tower illuminated.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Big Ben
- Use Oyster or contactless: Save time at the barrier when entering the Tube station.
- Pre-book cruise: Reserve tables online in advance for the best deck views.
Reviews of Big Ben
Rashaad
You’ve seen it in photos, now it’s staring you down in real life. The tower’s impressive, the clock’s massive, and the chimes hit like a reminder that London runs on its own time. You won’t spend long here, but you’ll definitely look up. Worth the stop, even if just to say you’ve seen it tick.
Tobi
Visiting Big Ben is truly an unforgettable experience. The tower is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and simply breathtaking when you see it up close. Especially when the clock strikes, you can really feel the history and significance of this place. Whether by day, when the golden details shine in the sunlight, or at night, when the tower is beautifully illuminated – Big Ben is always a high...
Amanda
A London must-see. Beautiful architecture. Designer was only 22 and created this. Clock tower looks great and bright since renovated. Iconic - both in the day and lit up at night.
Keira Donnelly
Big Ben Tour – Inside the Elizabeth Tower Visiting the Elizabeth Tower might just be one of the best things you can do in London. Getting tickets, however, is the real challenge — plan ahead and try to book about six months in advance, checking the website regularly. No photos are allowed inside, which is a bit of a shame, but completely understandable. The climb is 334 steps up a narrow spiral ...
Connor
Big Ben is one of those spots that’s just a must-see in London. You've probably seen a million pictures of it, but it’s so much more impressive in person. The sheer size and detailed architecture of the Elizabeth Tower (which is the actual name of the clock tower, with Big Ben being the huge bell inside) are really cool. The best part is hearing the chimes. They're powerful and you can feel the so...
When is the best time to visit Big Ben (London, United Kingdom)?
Visit at dusk in winter for the tower’s nighttime illumination and longer twilight in summer for extended golden-hour shots.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Return Tube tickets | GBP 5.8 |
| Picnic supplies | GBP 10 |
| Dinner cruise | GBP 160 |
| Audio tour app download | GBP 0 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 175.8 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Big Ben
Address: London SW1A 0AA, UK
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