Brigg, Goole, and Isle of Axholme MP Andrew Percy is inviting his constituents to get in touch if they are interested in applying for free tickets for a tour of the newly-refurbished Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament.
He said: “I understand that the Elizabeth Tower will officially reopen to the public this summer following its conservation project . As such, MPs have been provided with a certain number of free tickets for their constituents to tour the Tower and see the Big Ben bell.
“If you are a constituent and would like to register your interest in these tours, please do email andrew.percy.mp@parliament.uk. Please include your full names and addresses.”
This guided tour of the Elizabeth Tower takes visitors up a narrow 334-step spiral stairwell to the Belfry that’s home to the bell Big Ben. Along the route, guides reveal details of the most extensive and complex conservation project in the Tower’s history.
This vital conservation work involved more than 500 people skilled in stone masonry, glass blowing, gilding, plastering, cast iron and clock mechanics.
Visitors will see the inner workings of the clock mechanism, stand next to the world-famous Big Ben bell as it strikes the hour, and step behind the dials, almost seven metres wide.
The Big Ben tour is not suitable for everyone. Visitors must be aged 11 and over and be comfortable climbing 334 steps unaided and able to sustain moderate physical exertion for up to 90 minutes. You will experience high noise levels from the clock mechanism and bells – ear defenders will be provided. The total tour duration is 90 minutes and toilet facilities are available at the beginning and end of the tour only. Due to the constraints of the Tower, accessible tours including step-free access are not currently available.
