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Palace of Westminster and Big Ben

Highlight • Historical Site

Palace of Westminster and Big Ben

Hiking

4.9

(1032)

Road cycling

4.6

(205)

Cycling

5.0

(10)

Gravel riding

5.0

(4)

Running

3.3

(2)

Mountain biking

5.0

(1)

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  • Location: London, Greater London, England, United Kingdom

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  • Take Me There

    Tips

    July 31, 2019

    Hiking

    The Palace of Westminster is a Victorian Gothic masterpiece designed by Sir Charles Barry and A.W. Pugin to replace the medieval parliament buildings which burnt to the ground in 1834. The place comprises the iconic Big Ben; Westminster Hall, the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate; St Stephen's Chapel; and the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the two houses of British politics.

    Be aware, tickets sell out a long time in advance as this is such a popular place to visit. Be sure to book in advance via: ukparliament.seetickets.com/content/ticket-options.

    May 8, 2022

    Hiking

    Arguably one of the most photographed buildings in England, Westminster Palace in London is a "Gothic Revival Masterpiece" and the seat of British government. The famous clock tower "Big Ben" is part of the building.
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    March 25, 2020

    Hiking

    Update March 2020 - Imer still a part of the parliament and BigBen in the scaffolding - only one clock face still looks out. The bell is also turned off to protect workers.
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Palace of Westminster and Big Ben

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    4.8

    (9)

    41

    hikers

    #1.

    Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament loop from Charing Cross

    4.94km

    01:17

    30m

    30m

    Embark on an easy 3.1-mile (4.9 km) hike through London's historic heart, starting from Charing Cross. This urban loop takes you past iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square, dominated by Nelson's Column, and the majestic Buckingham Palace. You will walk on predominantly paved paths and well-maintained city pavements, making it accessible for all skill levels. The route offers a rich tapestry of historical architecture and royal grandeur, interspersed with tranquil green spaces such as St. James's Park. With only 100 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, you can comfortably complete this journey in about 1 hours and 16 minutes. The scenery continuously engages you with world-famous buildings and serene parklands, including the Houses of Parliament and the iconic Big Ben. This easy trail is suitable for any fitness level.

    The starting point for this loop at Charing Cross is exceptionally well-connected, making it very accessible by public transport for visitors. This easy walk is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, and you will find the terrain along the loop predominantly urban and paved. While the route primarily follows well-maintained city pavements, some areas might have uneven underfoot conditions, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Consider timing your visit to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, which is a major draw. The route offers flexibility to suit different interests and timeframes, whether you seek a quick sightseeing tour or a more leisurely exploration.

    What makes this trail particularly notable is the unparalleled concentration of iconic British landmarks within a single, easily walkable loop. It serves as a living history lesson, showcasing centuries of British royalty, government, and significant events. The route provides a unique blend of grand urban landscapes and serene green parklands, offering diverse photographic opportunities and a varied walking experience. You will pass through St. James's Park, London's oldest Royal Park, featuring a large lake that is a sanctuary for various waterfowl. This loop offers continuous visual engagement with world-famous landmarks and historical buildings.

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    Easy
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    5.0

    (1)

    16

    hikers

    12.8km

    03:17

    60m

    60m

    The Jubilee Greenway Loop offers a moderate hiking experience, allowing you to explore London's diverse urban tapestry. This 7.9-mile (12.8 km) route, with a gentle 188 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 17 minutes to complete. You will navigate a mix of paved paths and public roads, encountering both bustling city scenes and peaceful green parklands. Imagine walking past the historic Tower Bridge, then finding yourself amidst the calm of a riverside park, experiencing the city's contrasts firsthand.

    Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is easily accessible from various points across London. You can reach the trailheads conveniently via the city's extensive public transport network, making it simple to start and finish your hike. The Jubilee Greenway Loop is well-marked with 60 unique glass markers, ensuring easy navigation throughout your journey. This makes it a great option for a day out, without needing to worry about complex directions or specific permits.

    This trail stands out for its unique blend of urban exploration and natural beauty, tracing a path that connects many of London's significant landmarks and green spaces. It was created to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, offering a historical and cultural context to your walk. The route provides an excellent opportunity to see the city from a pedestrian perspective, revealing both its famous sights and its quieter, more reflective corners.

    Moderate
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    Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

    Moderate

    Details

    Informations

    Elevation 20 m

    Weather

    Powered by Foreca

    Sunday 31 May

    22°C

    12°C

    29 %

    Additional weather tips

    Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h

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    Location: London, Greater London, England, United Kingdom

    Other Popular Places to Check Out

    Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben)

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