How to Get to Big Ben
Big Ben stands beside the Houses of Parliament at Westminster and is one of London’s easiest landmarks to reach by public transport. The name technically belongs to the Great Bell, while the clock tower is called Elizabeth Tower. This guide explains the simplest ways to arrive, where to emerge from the station and how to combine the stop with nearby attractions.
Navigate to Big Ben with CityNav →Nearest stations to Big Ben
Closest station, served by the Jubilee, Circle and District lines. Use the Parliament Square exits for Big Ben.
Useful for National Rail and Underground services. Walk across Westminster Bridge for a direct landmark view.
A longer riverside walk served by the Bakerloo, Circle, District and Northern lines.
Best ways to arrive
From Westminster station
Follow signs for Parliament Square. Big Ben is visible as soon as you reach street level, so there is no need to cross a busy junction to orient yourself.
From Waterloo station
Walk towards the South Bank and cross Westminster Bridge. This approach gives a clear view of the tower and takes you close to the London Eye.
By bus or on foot
Many central London buses stop around Parliament Square. Walking routes along the Thames connect Big Ben with Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace and the South Bank.
Practical visitor advice
- Parliament Square and Westminster Bridge become crowded during the middle of the day. Early morning usually offers more space.
- Elizabeth Tower tours require advance booking and have separate security and eligibility requirements. Check the official UK Parliament website before travelling.
- Westminster station has step-free access, but lift availability can change. Check current Transport for London accessibility information.
- The classic photo locations are Westminster Bridge, Parliament Square and the South Bank across the river.
CityNav or Google Maps for this journey?
Google Maps offers broad global coverage and Street View. CityNav focuses on tourist needs such as prepared city transit information, station guidance, AR walking directions and travel safety tools. See the strengths and limits of both in our CityNav vs Google Maps comparison.
Continue planning your London visit
London Eye →Across Westminster Bridge on the South BankLondon public transport guide →Tube, bus, tickets and accessibility adviceLondon Underground guide →Zones, fares and the best lines for touristsFrequently asked questions
Westminster Underground station is the nearest. It is served by the Jubilee, Circle and District lines and has exits beside Parliament Square.
Tours concern Elizabeth Tower, which houses Big Ben, and must be booked through the official UK Parliament service. Availability, security rules and eligibility can change, so check the official information before visiting.
Yes. The attractions face each other across the Thames. The walk over Westminster Bridge normally takes around 10 to 15 minutes depending on crowds.