Palace of Westminster (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Palace of Westminster?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Kids aged 5-12 get free multimedia devices with quizzes and toilets on route, but 90-minute indoors tour and strict no-running rules may test patience; check schedule for debates.
Positives:
- Engaging for kids: Child-friendly quizzes and games in the audio tour keep children focused.
- One free child ticket: Each full-price adult ticket includes one free child admission (under 15).
- Easy transport: Westminster station is a 5-minute walk; bring a compact stroller for the 90-minute tour.
Challenges:
- Security screening: Plan extra time for bag checks and stroller inspection at entrance.
- Lengthy tour: The 90-minute audio route can tire younger children; plan breaks or switch to gallery visit.
- Crowded weekends: Late mornings on weekends and holidays fill up quickly; arrive early.
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 kids?
- Interactive audio tours with quizzes engage both adults and children
- One free child ticket per adult and discounted extra child rate
- Free public gallery lets kids see live debates in action
- Accessible facilities and stroller-friendly routes throughout
- Nearby parks and café breaks make a full family outing
Recommended visit duration: 1.5-2 hours
Why 1.5-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 90-minute multimedia tour plus short breaks fits young children’s attention spans.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Palace of Westminster
Family-friendly audio tour:
Follow a 90-minute multimedia route with child-oriented videos, quizzes, and games.
Tip: Book online to secure one free child ticket per adult; collect quiz badges together.
Public Gallery visit:
Watch live Commons or Lords debates from the public gallery for free.
Tip: Check online schedule and arrive 30 minutes early to queue for seats that suit children.
Jubilee Café break:
Enjoy light meals and kid-friendly menu near Westminster Hall.
Tip: Try the children’s meal deal (£6–£10) and grab a window spot for river views.
Kids’ Handbook souvenir:
Pick up a puzzle-filled guide book to extend learning before or after your visit.
Tip: Buy at the Parliament Shop for about £5–£7; ideal for car or hotel.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Palace of Westminster
- Pre-book online: Reserve audio tour slots online 2–3 weeks ahead to secure family tickets.
- Start with indoor tour: Begin inside with the audio tour before exploring outdoor photo spots on Westminster Bridge.
- Combine with park: After the visit, walk 5 minutes to Victoria Tower Gardens for a relaxed picnic.
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)?
Guided tours inside live chambers run only on Saturdays and during summer; on other days, use the audio tour, which runs year-round. In winter, arrive before 3 pm as parts close earlier and bring warm clothes for river-side photos. In summer, pair your visit with a picnic in nearby Victoria Tower Gardens.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Audio tour tickets (2 adults + 1 paid child) | GBP 64 |
| Jubilee Café snacks (family) | GBP 30 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 94 |
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 Palace of Westminster
Address: London SW1A 0AA, UK
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About Palace of Westminster
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