Palace of Westminster (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Palace of Westminster?
What makes it 63% Baby-Friendly: Babies enter free and changing tables exist, yet buggies must stay with you and quiet is expected for 90 minutes, so breaks are tricky; arrange feeding rooms in advance.
Positives:
- Bulky Architecture: Heavy interiors can feel cool; bring extra layers for your baby.
- Free Entry for Babies: Children under 5 are free but still need a ticket.
- Accessible Routes: Most areas allow strollers but staff will ask you to fold them in narrow corridors.
Challenges:
- Length of Tour: The full audio tour lasts 90 minutes, which may tire babies.
- Security Checks: Allow extra time for bag and stroller screening at entrance.
What is Palace of Westminster?
- Serves as the seat of the British Parliament, housing both the House of Commons and the House of Lords
- Exemplifies Gothic Revival architecture in its 19th-century reconstruction, with soaring spires, ornate stonework and the iconic Elizabeth Tower
- Spans 30,000 square metres along the River Thames, encompassing over 1,100 rooms, Westminster Hall and numerous ceremonial chambers
What is so special about Palace of Westminster for with baby?
- Enjoy a baby-friendly audio tour with free child tickets.
- Access dedicated baby-changing and care rooms.
- Comfortable breaks in Jubilee Café and nearby parks.
- Easy stroller access with staff assistance where needed.
- Quick 1.5-2 hour visit fits well into a family day.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5-2 hours
Why 1.5-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: This timeframe covers the self-guided audio tour, stops at baby-care facilities, and a short break with a stroller.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Palace of Westminster
Self-guided Family Audio Tour:
Use the multimedia device to explore Westminster Hall, the Central Lobby and Big Ben at your own pace.
Tip: Book tickets online in advance to secure two free child places and minimize queue time.
Baby-changing Facilities:
Find baby-changing tables on the ground floor near Westminster Hall and on the first floor in the Lower Waiting Hall.
Tip: Ask a staff member to escort you to the accessible Changing Places toilet on the first floor.
Private Baby-care Room:
A quiet room on the 2nd floor for feeding or napping.
Tip: Request access at least one week before your visit via your sponsoring MP.
Jubilee Café:
Soft seating area serving hot drinks and light meals.
Tip: Plan a mid-visit stop here to feed your baby and warm bottles in the nearby microwave.
Stroll in Nearby Parks:
Walk to Victoria Tower Gardens or St James’s Park after your tour.
Tip: Use the stroller-friendly paths for a relaxing picnic by the River Thames.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Palace of Westminster
- Pre-book Tickets: Buy audio tour tickets online to skip the main ticket line.
- Bring a Lightweight Stroller: Use a compact buggy to navigate tight doorways more easily.
- Pack Essentials: Carry spare diapers and snacks to minimize stops in halls.
Reviews of Palace of Westminster
Peter Stetka
UK Parliament: Audio Tour price 29 pounds. Very very good to see it. House of Lords House of Commons... full of british history and politics
Shawn D
Audio tour is great, especially if you listen to all the extra commentary. Pictures allowed in the Banqueting Hall and at the beginning/end of the tour. However, no pictures are allowed in any of the Parliament rooms or corridors.
M H
Really interesting place to visit. Airport security on the way in, then you collect your audio guide, which are headphones and mobile phone-type device which shows pictures and allows you to control volume etc. You then wander off, guided around the palace by the audio guide. There are three different duration tours to chose from. You can also have a tour guide. Booking is worthwhile to avoid disa...
Babji Vundavilli
Usually we had an outside perspective of the Houses of Parliament, but this time we went inside for a charity event. What a stunning structure. It's unfortunate that taking pictures is prohibited throughout, but there are plenty of sights to see and spots to sit and enjoy the show. The sculptures of former prime ministers were appealing to me. The rigorous entry security was well-planned. We had ...
Sylvia Wall
Often viewed the Houses of Parliament from outside but this time we went inside. What a beautiful building. Pity it's not allowed to take photos throughout but lots to see and places to sit to take in the spectacle. I liked the statues of former prime ministers. The least impressive area was the House of Commons but glad to have seen it as it's so often on the news! I was impressed by the cafe as ...
When is the best time to visit Palace of Westminster (London, United Kingdom)?
In summer, enjoy longer daylight for outdoor play in the gardens. In winter, schedule the café break to warm up between halls.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Self-guided audio tour (2 adults) | GBP 54 |
| Jubilee Café snacks | GBP 12 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 66 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Palace of Westminster
Address: London SW1A 0AA, UK
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About Palace of Westminster
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