How Tours Work
The Houses of Parliament offer guided tours that take you through some of the most historically significant rooms in British politics. The standard route passes through Westminster Hall, St Stephen's Hall, the Central Lobby, the House of Commons chamber, the House of Lords chamber and the Royal Gallery. Each tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and is led by an expert guide.
Tours run on most Saturdays throughout the year and on weekdays during parliamentary recesses, which typically fall during school holidays. The schedule varies, so checking availability in advance is essential. For more about what to expect, see our full guide to the Houses of Parliament tour.
What You Will See
The tour route follows the ceremonial path taken by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament. You enter through the same doors and walk through the same corridors, giving a real sense of the building's scale and grandeur.
Westminster Hall is usually the first major space you encounter. Built in 1097, it is the oldest part of the palace and one of the most impressive medieval halls in Europe. From there, the route moves through St Stephen's Hall, built on the site of the original chapel where the Commons sat for centuries.
The Two Chambers
The House of Commons chamber is smaller and more austere than most visitors expect. Its green leather benches face each other across a narrow floor, deliberately designed so that the two sides of a debate are physically opposed. For a deeper look at how these two chambers compare, see our guide to the House of Commons vs House of Lords. The chamber was rebuilt after being destroyed by bombing in 1941 and was intentionally kept too small to seat all 650 MPs, creating a sense of urgency during major debates.
The House of Lords chamber is more ornate, with red leather benches, gilded decoration and the golden throne used by the monarch. It is a striking contrast to the relative simplicity of the Commons.
Free Tours for UK Residents
If you are a UK resident, you can request a free tour by contacting your local MP or a member of the House of Lords. These tours follow a similar route to the paid tours and are available on most sitting days. Demand is high, so booking well in advance is advisable.
You can also watch debates from the public galleries without booking, subject to security screening and availability. Question Time on Wednesdays is particularly popular but queues can be long.
Practical Information
Security screening is thorough and similar to airport procedures. Large bags are not permitted, and there is limited storage available. Photography is restricted in certain areas of the building.
The nearest Underground stations are Westminster (Jubilee, District and Circle lines) and St James's Park (District and Circle lines). The entrance for tours is at the Cromwell Green visitor entrance on St Margaret Street.
Visitors with mobility requirements should note that the Palace of Westminster is a historic building with some areas that are difficult to access. Step-free routes are available for most of the tour, and staff can advise on accessibility when you book.
