Following the successful launch of new audio tours and enhanced guided tours earlier this year, the Houses of Parliament have added two new self-guided tour options for summer 2014. Tickets are now available for Saturdays until 25 October 2014 and most weekdays between 31 July and 10 October 2014.
For the first time, Parliament offers a tour created especially for families with children; the audio tour includes an engaging commentary delivered in the style of a ‘live’ news broadcast. Time travelling reporters are called upon throughout the tour to ‘report from the scene’ on stories associated with this iconic and historic building.
In addition, the Houses of Parliament continues to enhance its commitment to accessibility for all by introducing a screen-based version of the audio tour in British Sign Language. Hearing loops are available for visitors who prefer to take a guided tour.
Tour highlights include the Queen’s Robing Room, Royal Gallery, Lords Chamber, Central Lobby, Members’ Lobby, Commons Chamber and the 900 year old Westminster Hall. Foreign language options are currently offered in French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian and Mandarin and guided tours in other languages can be arranged for groups on request.
Stylish afternoon tea in the Terrace Pavilion can be booked as an add-on to the tours. A tempting seasonal menu that combines tradition with a modern twist is served in this spectacular riverside location.
Amy Pitts, the newly appointed Head of Visitor and Retail Services, commented; “I am delighted to join the Houses of Parliament at a time when we are offering visitors a wider choice than ever before. We are confident that this summer’s tours and afternoon teas will appeal to a range of new audiences, and encourage previous visitors to come back and see what we now have to offer.”
Group rates and booking (for groups of 10 or more):
- Audio tours (including BSL screen-based tours) – £14
- Guided tours – £19
- Afternoon tea in the Terrace Pavilion: £27.50 (in addition to the price of the tour ticket)
Individual prices and booking:
- Audio (including BSL screen-based tours) – Adults £17.50, Concessions £15, Children free with each paying adult and £7 for each additional child
- Guided tours – Adults £25, Concessions £20, Children £10
- Afternoon tea in the Terrace Pavilion: £27.50 (in addition to the price of the tour ticket)
Concession prices apply to over 60s, students and members of the UK Armed Forces.
All tours are on a timed ticket basis and advanced booking is recommended (booking is essential for tours with afternoon tea).
Bookings can be made by calling Ticketmaster on 0844 847 2498 (from the UK) or +44 161 425 8677 (from outside the UK), or by visitingwww.parliament.uk/visiting.
