The Parliament, the Big Ben and the Thames... by dvideira
The Houses of the Parliament , also known as The Palace of Westminster, here seen from across the river Thames are the political center of the United Kingdom. Although the current Gothic-style building dates from the mid-19th century, the site has been a royal palace since the 11th century.
There's not much else to do at the Parliament, of course, it is after all a government building. If you walk around the building, you will find some very impressive artwork and architecture, especially the royal entranceway for the rare visits the Queen might make to Parliament.
The two imposing towers, well known landmarks in London, are the clock tower, named after it?s thirteen ton bell called Big Ben, and Victoria tower, on which's flag pole the Union Jack flies when parliament is sitting.Well... I didn't feel like, but actually it is possible to visit the Houses of the Parliament...
Entry is through St. Stephen?s Entrance, where you can join a queue for the public galleries, known as Strangers Galleries. Debates in the commons take place on Mon. Tues. and Thurs. from 2-30 pm; Wed. & Fri. from 9-30 am.
The busiest and most interesting time to visit the House is during Prime Minister's Question Time. If you wish to attend Prime Minister's Question Time you must book a ticket through your MP or your embassy. Prime Minister?s Question Time is on Wed. from 12pm - 12-30pm.
The House of Lords sit on Mon. - Wed. From 2-30; On Thurs. From 3pm; If a sitting takes place on Friday it commences at 11am.
Both houses recess at Christmas, Easter and from August to mid October.