21/09/2026
Dear Visitors to the U.K.
The most common mistake people make is the name of the giant clock tower in Parliament Square.
BIG BEN! No, its officially the Elizabeth Tower; BIG BEN is the name of the bell (1856) inside the Clock, with its 14ft hands. Sir Benjamin Hall was the first commissioner of works; it is widely thought the bell was associated with him, simply because he was a big chap.
Charles Barry - the architect.
On the night of 16 October 1834, the old, medieval Palace of Westminster caught fire and burned to the ground. While horrified Londoners watched it happen, Barry—who grew up right there in Westminster—allegedly looked up at the massive fire and blurted out, "What a chance for an architect!" For him, the disaster was the ultimate career breakthrough.
Think of the meaning of such a big clock tower. It is a statement of power and confidence - GMT and all that - symbol of Empire? maybe. Explore all the meanings behind the design with your guide.
Virtuoso Travel