UK visitors
UK residents can visit Parliament to watch laws being made, attend debates, watch committees, tour the estate and climb the Clock Tower (Big Ben).
Information about the Tactile Tours of the Houses of Parliament for visually impaired visitors
The House of Commons also sits in an additional room just off Westminster Hall. Find out how you can watch the debates and what type of business takes place
Find out how you can watch government ministers answer questions from members of the House on government policy and topical issues
Exclusive guided tours focusing on the art and decorative arts of the House of Lords are available on selected Friday evenings throughout 2013
Parliament opens its doors to the public as part of the annual Open House weekend
Specialist guided tours focusing on the art and architecture of Portcullis House are available on selected Fridays throughout 2013
Visit public galleries in either the House of Commons or the House of Lords and watch members question the government and debate current issues and legislation
Experience a 75 minute tour learning about the history of Parliament and exploring the Palace of Westminster, visiting both Houses of Parliament and discover Westminster Hall
A large part of the work of the House of Commons and the House of Lords happens in committees, made up by smaller groups of MPs or Lords
On Saturdays and during the Summer Opening, UK residents and overseas visitors can buy tickets to tour Parliament
UK residents can arrange a tour of the Elizabeth Tower through their local MP or member of the House of Lords. Regretfully, such tours are not available to overseas visitors