English Speaking Countries: Westminster Palace – Tourist Attraction
Table of Contents
The Palace of Westminster
The Palace of Westminster, also known as the Houses of Parliament, is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and a major tourist attraction in the United Kingdom. It serves as the meeting place of the two houses of the UK Parliament:
- The House of Commons
- The House of Lords
Located on the north bank of the River Thames in the City of Westminster, Central London, the Palace is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and a symbol of British democracy.
Key Facts About the Westminster Palace
- Function: Seat of the UK Parliament
- Location: City of Westminster, London, England
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Designated in 1987
- Architectural Style: Gothic Revival
- Famous Features:
- Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)
- Central Lobby
- Westminster Hall
- Victoria Tower
Historical Significance of the Palace of Westminster
Originally built in the Middle Ages, much of the current structure was rebuilt in the 19th century after a devastating fire in 1834. The Palace has been the center of British politics for centuries and plays a crucial role in the country’s legislative process.
Visiting the Westminster Palace
Tourists can book guided tours of the Palace of Westminster, which include visits to:
- The House of Commons and House of Lords chambers
- Westminster Hall – the oldest part of the building
- Central Lobby and other ceremonial spaces
Visitors can also witness live debates and committee sessions when Parliament is in session.
Key Vocabulary
- Parliament – A legislative body of government.
Example: The British Parliament consists of two houses. - Commons – Short for the House of Commons, the elected lower house of Parliament.
Example: Debates often take place in the House of Commons. - Lords – Short for the House of Lords, the appointed upper house of Parliament.
Example: New laws must be approved by the House of Lords. - Gothic Revival – An architectural style inspired by medieval Gothic design.
Example: The Palace was rebuilt in the Gothic Revival style. - Lobby – A large hall or waiting area.
Example: The Central Lobby connects both houses. - Chamber – A large room used for official meetings or debates.
Example: Each house meets in its own chamber. - Elizabeth Tower – The clock tower that houses Big Ben.
Example: Many tourists take pictures of the Elizabeth Tower. - Westminster Hall – The oldest part of the Palace, dating back to 1097.
Example: Historic events have taken place in Westminster Hall. - River Thames – The major river flowing through London.
Example: The Palace stands beside the River Thames. - Guided Tour – A tour led by a knowledgeable person who explains the site’s features.
Example: You can take a guided tour of the Palace.
More on this topic on Wikipedia.
Quiz: Test Your Knowledge of the Palace of Westminster
Choose the correct answer for each question.
- What are the two houses of the UK Parliament?
- a) Senate and Assembly
- b) Commons and Lords
- c) King and Queen
- d) Parliament and Cabinet
- What river is the Palace of Westminster located next to?
- a) River Severn
- b) River Avon
- c) River Thames
- d) River Clyde
- What is another name for the Palace of Westminster?
- a) Royal Palace
- b) Whitehall
- c) Houses of Parliament
- d) Buckingham House
- What is the name of the famous clock tower?
- a) Tower Bridge
- b) Elizabeth Tower
- c) Big Clock
- d) Parliament Tower
- What style is the Palace of Westminster built in?
- a) Baroque
- b) Romanesque
- c) Gothic Revival
- d) Neoclassical
- What is the oldest part of the Palace?
- a) Victoria Tower
- b) Elizabeth Tower
- c) Central Lobby
- d) Westminster Hall
- What can tourists do inside the Palace?
- a) Ride a boat
- b) Climb the tower
- c) Take a guided tour
- d) Go shopping
2. c) River Thames
3. c) Houses of Parliament
4. b) Elizabeth Tower
5. c) Gothic Revival
6. d) Westminster Hall
7. c) Take a guided tour
