Big Ben

The most famous aspect of palace which is home to the Houses of Parliament, the Elizabeth Tower is more commonly known as 'Big Ben' - the name that was actually given to the heaviest bell of the tower's Great Clock. Big Ben is the bell that chimes the hour. The Elizabeth Tower also houses the Ayrton Light, which is visible at the top of the tower if either House is sitting after dark. The light was installed at the request of Queen Victoria so that she could see, from Buckingham Palace, if the politicians were at work.