United Kingdom
Big Ben
Welcome to London! Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell inside this famous clock tower, which stands proudly beside the River Thames.
Why is it famous?
Its deep bell chimes have marked the hours in London for over 160 years.
It is one of the most recognized clock towers in the whole world.
How was it built?
Workers finished building the tower and its clock in 1859, using stone and iron.
The clock's four giant faces are each as wide as a bus is long, so it can be read from far away.
Amazing facts
Big Ben is actually the name of the huge bell inside, not the whole tower.
The bell weighs about as much as two elephants.
Quick facts
- Big Ben is actually the name of the huge bell inside, not the whole tower.
- The bell weighs about as much as two elephants.
- The clock is famous for keeping incredibly accurate time.
- The tower is officially called the Elizabeth Tower.