What is the Height of Big Ben

The iconic landmark of London, Big Ben, is known worldwide for its grandeur and historical significance. Standing tall and proud, it has fascinated tourists and locals alike for years. However, have you ever wondered about the exact height of this magnificent clock tower? Let’s delve into the details and uncover the secrets behind the height of Big Ben.

Firstly, it’s important to clear up a common misconception – Big Ben is not actually the name of the entire clock tower. It refers to the massive bell housed within the tower. The official name of the tower is the Elizabeth Tower, although it was previously known as the Clock Tower. The bell, which weighs a staggering 13.5 tons, is named Big Ben after Sir Benjamin Hall, the Commissioner of Works at the time the tower was completed in 1859.

Now onto the height. The Elizabeth Tower, including its spire, measures approximately 96 meters (315 feet). The tower itself stands at 62 meters (203 feet) tall, while the spire adds 34 meters (112 feet) to the overall height. However, it’s worth noting that the height has varied over the years. Due to the heavy bombing during World War II, the tower’s upper structure was damaged, reducing its height. The original spire was replaced with a lighter, more durable structure, resulting in the current height.

The Elizabeth Tower’s construction was no easy feat. It took a total of thirteen years to complete. Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin, the architects responsible for the design, worked diligently to create a masterpiece. The tower was built in the Victorian Gothic Revival style, which remains an architectural marvel to this day.

It’s interesting to note that the tower is not only admired for its height but also for its remarkable accuracy as a timekeeper. The Great Clock of the Elizabeth Tower is famous for its reliability, thanks to its remarkable mechanism. The clock has four faces, each measuring 7 meters (23 feet) in diameter. The minute hands are 4.2 meters (13.8 feet) long, while the hour hands are 2.7 meters (8.8 feet) long. The mechanism consists of 312 pieces of opalescent glass, illuminated at night to ensure easy visibility.

Despite its impressive height, the Elizabeth Tower does not hold the title of the tallest clock tower in the United Kingdom. That distinction goes to the “Peace Tower,” located in Liverpool. Standing at 101 meters (331 feet), it surpasses the height of Big Ben by a small margin. Nevertheless, the iconic nature and historical significance of Big Ben make it an unparalleled symbol of London.

In conclusion, the height of Big Ben, or more accurately the Elizabeth Tower, stands at approximately 96 meters (315 feet). With its rich history, impeccable timekeeping, and stunning architecture, this iconic London landmark continues to captivate the hearts and minds of people from all around the world. So, when you next marvel at its grandeur, you can appreciate the towering height that adds to its awe-inspiring presence.