An iconic landmark of not just London, but Britain as a whole, the Houses of Parliament are the epicentre of British politics and the backdrop for many of Britain’s defining moments. Although the oldest remaining part of the building dates back from King William II, a building of similar importance has stood on the spot since Saxon times. The most exciting incident in the history of the Houses was when Guy Fawkes plotted to blow them up in 1605 - it’s still commemorated with 5th November celebration fireworks.

In 1834, the building was destroyed by fire, with only Westminster Hall, the Jewel Tower, St. Stephen’s Chapel and the Cloisters surviving. Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin rebuilt Westminster in its Gothic sumptuousness, though the building was hit fourteen times by WWII bombs and had to again undergo extensive restoration.

The tour of the Houses of Parliament is often the basis of a school excursion, one which I took when I was fourteen. The building is very traditional and the power that works within the building is quite apparent, with the House of Commons spouting a particularly potent awe. Tours for overseas visitors are available in the two months when Parliament is in recess, but a visit any time of the year will leave an impression, especially with Big Ben towering above you and the area around Parliament Square is always a hive of activity for journalists and politicians.

Written by  John Johnston.

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