Westminster "Corridors of Power" Tour: Discover Big Ben, Houses of Parliament & Downing Street

Supplied by: Vidi Guides

Overview

The tour starts outside one of the most famous landmarks in Britain, Big Ben. Learn about the story of this famous bell and its real name as you cross Westminster Bridge and head into the north side of London, entering Westminster.

Stop at a statue of the famous Celtic warrior queen, Boadicea, and learn about her unique connection to Queen Victoria. Hear about the Roman conquest of Britain before turning around to marvel at the Palace of Westminster, home to the country’s parliament.

Wander around Westminster Palace, today known as the Houses of Parliament, as we discuss the relationship between monarchy and government in Britain historically and why a Parliament was formed in Great Britain. Touch William the Conqueror and the Battle of Hastings in 1066 as we walk past Westminster Abbey.

Stand in front of a statue of Oliver Cromwell, the first Lord Protector of England who took power back in 1653. This controversial statue represents a turbulent time in both British and Irish history, as Ireland lost almost 50% of its population as a direct result of the Cromwellian conquest.

Cross the road and get a beautiful view of Westminster Palace as we delve into a deep dive into the British parliamentary system, from the difference between the House of Commons and the House of Lords to England’s relationship with Scotland throughout both countries’ histories.

Head into Parliament Gardens to check out some of Britain’s most famous individuals immortalised as statues. Get a close look at the statue of Winston Churchill - the famous British Prime Minister who rallied his people during World War II to fight off Nazi invasion - as well at the statue of Millicent Fawcett, a key figure in the British suffragette movement and was recently voted the most influential British woman of the past 100 years.

Take a peek into Downing Street, the official residence and executive office of the prime minister of the United Kingdom at Number 10. Learn about the maze of secret corridors and passageways connecting the British government together, as well as a couple strange traditions and a love story.

Listen to our bonus track of this Westminster Vidi Guide to hear about some of Parliament’s strangest traditions, from the bizarre language and order in the House of Commons as people refer to each other as the Right Honourable Gentleman, to the monarch’s unique modern relationship to the House of Commons and House of Lords.

The Vidi Guides experience is enriched with on-screen photos and videos. We also point out where to take the perfect Instagram photos during the tour, and include recommendations for food, drinks, and local attractions. Don't worry, none of our recommendations are sponsored - they are simply favourites of the locals who helped craft the experience.

Vidi Guides creates immersive audio experiences that are like podcasts. This is a self-guided audio tour that can be started or stopped at your own convenience. Download the Vidi Guides app & your Westminster tour to explore the area independently and safely! Make sure to download your tour before your visit to streamline your trip!