Exploring the Iconic Houses of Parliament

The Houses of Parliament, consisting of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, are among London's most recognizable historic attractions. Technically located within the Parliament of Westminster, they are commonly referred to as the Houses of Parliament. Initially constructed in the 11th century, the palace was heavily damaged by a significant fire in the 19th century. Much of what you see today is the result of the Gothic Revival redesign by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin. Yet, parts of the original structure endure, notably the stunning medieval Westminster Hall, which is over 900 years old. Noteworthy features of this attraction include the House of Lords and House of Commons chambers, the central lobby, and St Stephen's Hall, which showcases statues of esteemed parliament members. The basic ticket price is £27.00 for the self-guided audio tour, while the guided tour can cost £34.00. Opting for the self-guided experience, we relished the freedom to explore and absorb the audio information at our own pace. I easily spent over an hour and a half in the Houses of Parliament, listening to all the audio guide content. It’s important to note that Parliament isn't open for tours during sessions, so be sure to check the website and confirm when it's convened to prevent disappointment. While the site is highly recommended for those fascinated by British politics and history, if this isn't your interest area, there are more cost-effective attractions in London, such as the British Museum, which are also extraordinary and even sometimes free.