Big Ben (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Big Ben?
What makes it 59% Baby-Friendly: Babies are barred from the tower climb and there is no buggy park, but flat riverside walks, photo spots, public baby-change toilets, and nearby lawns allow a brief, stroller-friendly visit.
Positives:
- Baby facilities on site: Portcullis House toilets have free changing tables and a microwave for warming feeds.
- Stroller access: Flat, paved paths around the gardens and bridge make pushchairs easy.
- Free exterior views: No tickets needed to admire Big Ben from outside at any time.
Challenges:
- No interior tours for babies: Climbing Elizabeth Tower is restricted to age 11 and over, so you can only view from outside.
- Pushchair must be carried: No buggy park means you keep your stroller with you at all times.
- Street performers: Performers near Parliament may ask for tips if they take photos or show tricks.
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 with baby?
- Easy riverside strolls and open spaces for a baby-friendly outing
- Flat paths and picnic spots in Victoria Tower Gardens
- Free exterior views of Big Ben with no tickets needed
- On-site baby changing and warming facilities in Portcullis House
- Hop-on hop-off Thames cruise lets infants ride free
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: This allows time to take photos, stroll along the Thames, and enjoy a picnic at Victoria Tower Gardens without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Big Ben
Photo stop at Westminster Bridge:
Capture Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from a flat, traffic-free walkway.
Tip: Go early morning to avoid crowds and keep your stroller close.
Stroll in Victoria Tower Gardens:
Enjoy a riverside park with lawns, benches, and space to spread a picnic mat.
Tip: Bring snacks and a blanket; paths are wide and stroller-friendly.
Thames hop-on hop-off cruise:
Board at Westminster Pier for flexible river sightseeing with your baby.
Tip: Kids under 5 ride free; stay in the covered lower deck if it’s windy.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Big Ben
- Use Westminster Abbey station: Exit here for shortest walk to the tower and gardens.
- Plan a picnic: Pick up fresh sandwiches nearby to save time and cost.
- Check baby room hours: Confirm Portcullis House opening times before your visit.
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)?
In summer, arrive before 10 AM for cooler temperatures and fewer people. In winter, view the tower lights glow from 4 PM but dress in warm layers.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tube return tickets for 2 adults | GBP 10 |
| Picnic snacks | GBP 10 |
| Thames cruise for 2 adults (under 5 free) | GBP 30 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 50 |
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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