Why was Big Ben shut down?
Why was Big Ben shut down? The Elizabeth Tower and the Great Clock are currently being completely renovated. Although the clock will only be out of action for two years, the bells have to be silenced for the entire renovation period to protect the workers' hearing. The Big Ben bell weighs 13.76 tonnes and chimes at 118 decibels.
Can you go inside Big Ben?
Visitors will be able to book a maximum of eight tickets per person, depending on availability. The Big Ben tour is not suitable for everyone. Visitors must be aged 11 and over and be comfortable climbing 334 steps and experiencing high noise levels from the clock mechanism and bells - earplugs will be provided.
Was Big Ben silenced in ww2?
1 September 1939: Although the bells continued to ring, the clock faces were not illuminated at night throughout World War II to avoid guiding bomber pilots during the Blitz. 10/11 May 1941: the clock was damaged during a German bombing raid, either by a small bomb or by a British anti-aircraft shell.
What are 5 facts about Big Ben?
- We're not sure who Ben was - but we have a couple of ideas.
- The Clock Tower took over 15 years to build.
- Big Ben is a marvel of Victorian engineering.
- Big Ben miraculously survived World War II.
- The bells of Big Ben chime a distinctive melody.