External architecture
The stonework
The Palace of Westminster was built with a sand-coloured limestone from the Anston Quarry in Yorkshire.
A new gothic vision
The new Palace of Westminster was custom-built by the Victorian architect Charles Barry for Parliamentary use. The design and layout of the building were thus carefully designed to serve the needs and workings of Parliament.
The Towers of Parliament
Apart from the Victoria Tower, the Palace contains two other striking towers.
Elizabeth Tower conservation
Find out more about the Elizabeth Tower and Big Ben conservation works 2017 to 2021.