Houses of Parliament

For over 700 years, Westminster has been a cradle of democracy, culminating today in the Houses of Parliament situated within the Palace of Westminster. The building combines the historic site of the old palace with modern craftsmanship, displaying the nation's history while also housing a busy Parliament.

This guidebook introduces the many marvellous aspects of the building as well as the history and tradition housed within it. Learn about the origins of the building, in fact the New Palace of Westminster, from the 16th century, designed by Charles Barry in the mid-19th century in a Perpendicular Gothic style. Explore the pageantry of the State Opening, the famous hub of the building, the Central Lobby with its famous ornate gold octagonal roof and many more fascinating details.