Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in London

Speaker'S House

Speaker’s House London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Speaker’s House, an exquisite residence within the Palace of Westminster, is a pivotal symbol of British parliamentary tradition and governance. As the official residence of the Speaker of the House of Commons, it offers a fascinating lens into the United Kingdom’s political heritage, ceremonial customs, and architectural grandeur. While access is primarily available through guided tours during parliamentary recesses, a visit to Speaker’s House is a rare opportunity to explore a critical facet of British democracy. This detailed guide outlines everything you need to know about visiting Speaker’s House: from historical context and tour highlights to ticketing procedures, accessibility, and practical visitor tips (Stephen Liddell, London Planner, Strawberry Tours, Official UK Parliament Access Info).

Introduction
Historical Evolution and Architectural Significance
Symbolic and Political Importance
Interior Highlights and Collections
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Tours
Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
Unique Artifacts and Special Exhibitions
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Educational and Civic Impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Call to Action
References

Historical Evolution and Architectural Significance

The role of the Speaker in the House of Commons dates back to 1377, but it wasn’t until 1795 that an official residence was established within the parliamentary estate. The current Victorian-era Speaker’s House, completed in 1859, is an architectural masterpiece designed to reflect the dignity and authority of the Speaker’s office (Stephen Liddell). Situated at the north end of the River Front and adjacent to Westminster Bridge, the building is distinguished by its twin-towered pavilion and richly detailed interiors. The layout follows Victorian conventions, with state apartments on the main floor, private bedrooms above, and service quarters below.

Symbolic and Political Importance

Speaker’s House is not merely a residence; it is a working space of ceremonial and diplomatic significance. The Speaker serves as the impartial presiding officer of the House of Commons, representing Parliament to the Crown and foreign dignitaries and upholding the principles of order and fairness. The state rooms regularly host royalty, international leaders, and official events, underscoring the Speaker’s integral role in the UK’s democratic process (London Planner). The tradition of hosting monarchs in the State Bedroom on the eve of coronations remains a striking reminder of the relationship between Parliament and the Crown.

Interior Highlights and Collections

Guided tours of Speaker’s House reveal a succession of beautifully preserved Victorian interiors and priceless artifacts:

Grand Staircase: A dramatic approach adorned with historic portraits.
Crimson Drawing Room: Lavishly decorated with period furnishings and textiles.
State Dining Room: A grand setting for formal dinners, surrounded by portraits of past Speakers and designed by Augustus Welby Pugin and John Braund (Stephen Liddell).
State Bedroom: Reserved for royal visits, featuring the rediscovered State Bed and a sense of regal history (London Planner).

Collections on display include silverware such as the Speaker’s Plate (commissioned in 1833), and portraits of notable Speakers like Sir Thomas More and William Lenthall. Temporary exhibitions, such as the historic Speaker’s State Coach, are occasionally featured (London Planner).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Tours

When to Visit

Speaker’s House is open to the public during parliamentary recesses—usually around Easter, summer, and sometimes Christmas. Tours are typically available on select days and last about 75 minutes (Strawberry Tours).

How to Book

Tickets must be booked online in advance via the official Parliament website. Releases occur three months ahead, on the second Wednesday of each month at 10:00 AM. Each visitor must present a valid photo ID matching the booking name. Group sizes are limited for preservation and security (Strawberry Tours, The Tour Guy).

Tour Experience

Tours begin in Westminster Hall, with visitors using radio headsets for clarity. The route encompasses state rooms and curated collections. The minimum age is 16. Photography is not permitted within Speaker’s House, but is allowed in Westminster Hall (Rick Steves Community).

Ticket Prices (2025)

Adults: £20
Young Adults (16–18): £12
Concessions (over 60s, students, UK Armed Forces): £12

Ticket prices include guided tour access and interpretive materials. Prices may vary by season and demand (The Tour Guy).

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities

Speaker’s House strives to be accessible to all visitors:

Wheelchair Access: Most areas are accessible; advance notice enables staff to assist further.
Companions: Free tickets available for essential companions with advance request.
Facilities: Restrooms are available near the entrance; refreshments may be offered at the undercroft café beneath Westminster Hall after your tour.
Dress Code: While there is no formal requirement, smart attire is recommended out of respect for the setting. Comfortable shoes are advisable due to the walking involved.

Unique Artifacts and Special Exhibitions

Occasionally, Speaker’s House hosts temporary exhibitions, such as the display of the centuries-old Speaker’s State Coach or rare parliamentary objects, offering additional insight into Britain’s ceremonial traditions (London Planner).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Location: Accessible via Westminster Underground Station (Jubilee, District, and Circle lines), a short walk from the Palace of Westminster (London Drum Practical Info).
Nearby Sites: Combine your visit with Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Churchill War Rooms, and guided tours of the wider Houses of Parliament (London Tickets Parliament Tour, Westminster Abbey Visitor Guide).

Educational and Civic Impact

Opening Speaker’s House for public tours is part of Parliament’s commitment to transparency and civic education. Tour proceeds support the Speaker’s Art Fund, which advances arts and educational initiatives across the UK, fostering greater public engagement with parliamentary democracy (London Planner).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I book tickets for Speaker’s House?
A: Tickets are released online three months in advance on the official Parliament website.

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Tours run during parliamentary recesses, typically between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM on selected days.

Q: Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with advance notification, staff can assist with accessibility arrangements.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is not permitted inside Speaker’s House, but is allowed in Westminster Hall.

Q: What identification do I need?
A: A valid photo ID matching your booking is required; international visitors should bring a passport or national ID (GoWithGuide).

Q: Are there language options?
A: Speaker’s House tours are in English; wider Palace of Westminster tours are available in other languages (The Tour Guy).

Conclusion

A visit to Speaker’s House is an unparalleled journey into the traditions, artistry, and political life of the United Kingdom. By securing tickets in advance and preparing for the unique security and etiquette requirements, visitors can enjoy a deeply informative experience that complements London’s other iconic historical sites. Speaker’s House stands as a living monument to British democracy, offering rare insight into the ceremonial and civic functions at the heart of Parliament.

Call to Action

Plan your visit to Speaker’s House by booking tickets online for the next available parliamentary recess. For further updates, in-depth content, and audio guides, download the Audiala app and follow our official channels. Enhance your London itinerary by exploring Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and other nearby historical treasures.