Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
In 1834, a horrendous fire gutted the Palace. It was rebuilt in a retro, Neo-Gothic style
that recalled England's medieval Christian roots—pointed arches, stained-glass windows,
spires, and saint-like statues. At the same time, Britain was also retooling its government.
Democracy was on the rise, the queen became a constitutional monarch, and Parliament
emerged as the nation's ruling body. The Palace of Westminster became a symbol—a kind
of cathedral—of democracy.
(See “Houses of Parliament” map,
here
.)
• Enter midway along the west side of the building (across the street from Westminster Ab-
bey), where a tourist ramp leads to the
...
As you enter, you'll be asked if you want to visit the House of Commons or the House
of Lords. I choose “Lords” (because the line is shorter), but it really doesn't matter. Once
inside the building, you'll be able to see all the public spaces described in this tour as you
transit to the chamber you intend to visit. If you have questions, the attendants are ex-
tremely helpful.
• At the airport-style security, you're photographed and given a badge (Lords or Com-
mons). Continue past the Jubilee Café (which has live video feeds of Parliament in ses-
sion), pick up helpful brochures at the information desk, and take in the cavernous...
