Big Ben is the name of the largest bell inside 'The Clock Tower' and is part of the Houses of Parliament in London. The whole tower has popularly become known as Big Ben, and is one of the most iconic landmarks of the London skyline. At night Big Ben's four gigantic illuminated dials can be seen from across London, and has been featured in countless films and books. Big Ben continues to chime the hour to this day, and the chimes are broadcast by radio and television stations to mark New Year and Remembrance Day.
Big Ben is located at the north east end of the Houses of Parliament building in Westminster, London. The official name of the building is the Clock Tower of the Palace of Westminster. It got its nickname from the 13.8 tonne bell which hangs inside the tower, although the bell's official name is the Great Bell. There are four further bells inside the Belfry.
Whilst the Tower of London is a much more famous London prison, Big Ben has also served a similar function. Members of Parliament who misbehave during debates can be imprisoned in the Clock Tower Prison Room, although this has not happened since 1880.
Big Ben is not open to the general public, but UK residents can arrange a visit to the top of the Clock Tower through their local Member of Parliament. The 334 steps visitors must climb to reach the Belfry are not for the faint-hearted - you might prefer to enjoy the view from outside the tower. The nearest tube station for Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament is Westminster.
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Radisson Edwardian hotels in this area
If you're looking for a Radisson Edwardian hotel in London that's close to Big Ben, you'll be spoilt for choice.
The Mayfair is a 5 star hotel located in Stratton Street in London's exclusive Mayfair. This historic building, opened by King George V in 1927, recently underwent a £70 million refurbishment. The result is an oasis of contemporary chic, with sofas and chairs by Fendi, chandeliers by Baccarat, and paintings from St Petersburg. The May Fair is superbly located for the sights of London and is close to Green Park tube station. It also has its own attractions in the form of the award-winning Amba Bar and Grill, the May Fair Bar and the Palm Beach Casino. The Mayfair is equipped with a luxury spa, complimentary wireless broadband and a 24 hour business centre, so whether you're planning a trip for business or pleasure, this hotel is sure to please.
The Radisson Edwardian Hampshire Hotel is a 5 star hotel in Leicester Square, the heart of London's theatreland. It offers grandeur and comfort, with mahogany-panelled walls, classic art, and bedrooms decorated with English fabrics and marble. The Hampshire's location, on the corner of Leicester Square, makes it an excellent base for exploring London, and it has a lively bar and restaurant serving the finest modern British and Mediterranean cuisine. The hotel has complimentary wireless Internet access, a 24 hour business centre and a fitness centre, so whether you're in London to work or to play, the Hampshire makes the perfect place to stay.
The Radisson Edwardian Leicester Square Hotel is a new 4 star hotel in St. Martin's Street, just off Leicester Square. Tucked away in a quiet backstreet, this intimate boutique hotel offers all the benefits of a central location just off London's theatreland. Its luxurious rooms offer sleek black slate bathrooms, Bang & Olufsen plasma TVs, and beautiful Baccarat lighting. The hotel has a bar and restaurant, a fitness centre, a 24 hour business centre, 24 hour room service and complimentary wireless internet access. If you're looking for a relaxing hideaway in a central location, the Radisson Edwardian Leicester Square Hotel is the one for you.
The Radisson Edwardian Mountbatten Hotel is a 4 star hotel in Seven Dials, Covent Garden. This discreet, boutique hotel is a byword for understated elegance, and its public areas feature silk chenille fabrics, 'leopard' hide chairs, Phillipe Hurel chocolate leather sofas and a collection of framed Japanese artefacts. The Mountbatten has a business centre, fitness centre and complimentary wireless access. The hotel's deluxe facilities and prime location make it the perfect London base for the business or leisure traveller.
