Dials of the clock are set in an iron frame 7.0 m in diameter.Design and construction Architect : Augustus Pugin.The interior volume of the tower is 4650 cubic metres.The remainder of the tower’s height is a framed spire of cast iron.The bottom 61.0 m of the tower’s structure consists of brickwork with sand-coloured Anston limestone cladding.The tower is founded on a 15.2 m square raft, made of 3.0 m thick concrete at a depth of 4.0 m below ground level.

Steps : Climb from ground level to the belfry is 334 steps.

Completed : 160 years ago / 150th anniversary.

Origin : was raised as a part of Charles Barry’s design for a new palace after the old Palace of Westminster was largely destroyed by fire on the night of 16 October 1834.

Location : Westminster, London, England, UK.

Lift : However, the tower currently has no lift, though one is being installed, so those escorted had to climb the 334 limestone stairs to the top.

Visit & Entry : The interior of the tower is not open to overseas visitors, though United Kingdom residents were able to arrange tours (well in advance) through their Member of Parliament.The clock tower has been part of a Grade I listed building since 1970 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.Establishing shot of films set in London.It is one of the most prominent symbols of the United Kingdom and parliamentary democracy.

The tower is a British cultural icon recognised all over the world.

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