Visiting Parliament

Also known as the Palace of Westminster, the Houses of Parliament were once the official residence of the English Royal family.

The oldest part of the building, Westminster Hall, was completed in 1097 and has played an important part in British history ever since.

The majority of the original palace was destroyed by fire in 1834. The current building, designed by Sir Charles Barry, was completed in 1870.

Are you interested in visiting Parliament , to watch a debate, or to see a select committee?

House of Parliament tours operate on the following dates:

Tour times in session

Monday and Tuesday: 9am-12noon (full tour)
Wednesday: 9am-9.32am (full tour) and 9.36am-12noon (partial tour of
Lords only)
Thursday: no tours
Friday: 3.30pm-5pm (full tour)

Non-sitting days and recesses

Non-sitting Fridays 9.30am-5pm
Christmas / New Year Closed
Easter and Spring Weekdays 9.30am-5pm
Whitsun Recess Weekdays 9.30am-5pm 

Summer recess

August - Wednesdays 9.30am-12noon

September - Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9.30am-12noon

If you would like to attend a Parliament tour or to attend a select committee or a debate please click on the link below and we will confirm availability as soon as possible