Tag: southbank

The Untold Natural History Museum London: Behind the Fossils

Published on by Rita MLeave a comment

If you ever got the chance, would you spend a night at the Natural History Museum?

Well, I wouldn’t. And trust me… it’s not because of the dinosaurs.

Now, most of London’s museums close their grand doors by early evening. But, I think the Natural History Museum does it out of necessity. To keep the whispers from turning into headlines.

You might ask…what whispers?

Oh, just the usual… security guards refusing to walk certain corridors alone, mannequins that allegedly blink back, taxidermy models that move on their own …and the lingering scent of pipe smoke when there’s not a soul around. You know. Tuesday stuff.

By day, it’s a family-friendly haven of science and wonder. But, after the sun goes down…the specimens claim this museum as their own. And there are 80 million such specimens. You can understand where I am going right?

Well… let’s just say that taxidermy isn’t the only thing that stares back.

Behind the elegant Romanesque arches and fossil-lined halls lie stories that never made it to the museum guidebooks. Neither they tell you about it on the museum map.

Now, don’t think of this blog as a ghost tour…rather, consider it as a part II of “Natural History Museum London- Where World Hides Its Oldest Secrets”

Let me tell you in this blog… there are no demons. No Victorian banshees. No “possessed porcelain dolls.” I believe, what lingers in this museum is subtler. Stranger. More curious.

And after this blog, no traveler can skip the Natural History Museum. Yes, it’s that interesting.

So, come on.

Haunting in the Museum

Let’s start with the million dollar question…”Is it haunted?” Well, officially it isn’t. But it depends on what you call “haunted” after you’ve heard the stories from those who swear it is.

  1. Sir Owen’s Rounds

Once one-night guard joked with a nervous laugh…“If the temperature drops suddenly, it’s Sir Owen doing his rounds”.

He meant Sir Richard Owen, the Victorian-era founder of the museum. Brilliant, yes. But also highly protective of his collections. His office once stood where the modern museum administration block now sits.

And, sometimes, in the grand hall some unusual things people report to experience. Such as footsteps hurriedly pacing in empty corridors, a sudden smell of old pipe tobacco and some even claim to see a shadowy man in a frock coat walking near locked exhibit rooms.

Seems like Sir Owen never quite handed over the keys.

So, next time you enter, be at your best behavior around the specimens. Because that’s all he cares.

  1. The Weeping Baby

Now, let me share with you an incident…

One night, a worker of NHM once found one of the baby chimpanzee models on the floor… several meters from its original case. No alarms. No broken glass…there was absolutely no explanation.

It happened in the Mammals Gallery.

Over the years, several museum security guards have reported hearing faint crying from this room and when they’ve gone to investigate, they found nothing at all…except the air was suddenly freezing cold.

This crying generally happens near the display of mother animals with their young, especially in the taxidermy mammal rooms.

Are you afraid? I bet not.

4. The Crocodile Whispers

This time, it was a paleobotanist. He quit mid-research, saying- “Something in that hallway spoke to me and it wasn’t living.”

Now, where was he? He was in the Paleontology department, near the fossilized skulls, particularly near the crocodilian skulls and prehistoric predator fossils.

And, later…some workers even reported hearing those whispers too when walking alone. But only if they stop.

5. Jars That Shift

Yes, in that infamous Spirit collection, there are the Victorian Jars that “Move”.

Well, some of the oldest specimens, especially the ones from the 1800s…are said to shift positions slightly overnight, despite being sealed in fluid for over a century.

Many a time, museum staff have returned to jars to find Labels mysteriously turned around, sometimes tiny creatures facing the opposite direction on their own.

Once, one particular jar containing a fetal primate “swam” very slowly to the edge of the jar over the course of weeks…as if trying to get closer to the glass.

What do you have to say here?

 It’s like the specimens are trying to scare someone or simply trying to get themselves out of there.

Weirdest natural mutations in the Museum

Let’s detour for a moment into science’s stranger side…The museum has a stunning collection of bizarre, mind-bending natural mutations that will make you question the limits of biology.

No, these aren’t mythical creatures at all. All of them are real animals and specimens affected by rare mutations, evolutionary anomalies, deformities, or bizarre adaptations that push the definition of “normal” in the natural world.

  • You know, behind the scenes in Spirit collection, there’s a chick embryo preserved in ethanol with two fully-formed heads sprouting from a single neck? Though the chick never hatched, but the preservation is immaculate… both heads have beaks, eyes, and brains.
  • Next, there’s a Cyclops Shark Embryo. It’s not on public display ever… just studied privately. Such a Shark Fetus was found inside the womb of a pregnant dusky shark caught by fishermen. Let me tell you, Cyclopia is a lethal mutation… and it’s a one-in-a-million mutation.
  • And then, in the Spirit Collection Vaults, there’s a Transparent Frog revealing every organ and bone inside its body. The fun part is that… you can literally watch its heart and see its circulatory system like nature’s x-ray. But, it’s no mutation. Isn’t it fascinating?

Still, there’s more… The Six-Legged Piglet, Two-Headed Snake, Albino Hedgehog, The Goat with Human-Like Face, The Mutant Flower That Grew Teeth, Chick with Three Legs and One Eye…, and so many more.

These mutations aren’t just oddities — they offer vital insight into genetics, developmental biology, and evolutionary extremes. But let’s be real …some of them are fascinatingly grotesque.

While many of them are tucked away in research vaults, some are even on public display.

So, you never know, when you will get a glimpse of them.

Let me ask you a question now…based on all these events would you say the NHM is haunted? I don’t think so…It’s more like the museum is living in the past, and all these rumors and stories make one wonder about those forgotten past.

What do the staff say?

Like every other ghost story in the world, there’s nothing here you can pin down or prove with cold, hard evidence. It’s all in the similar stories shared by the staff…with similar sort of feelings and experience.

But yes, across decades many spooky happenings do take place.

Sometimes, at night there are footsteps behind people when they’re working late…as if something is keeping an eye on them. Then there are Exhibits that move slightly, even under climate lock and Jar lids start “sweating” as if something alive were inside.

Isn’t it creepy? Definitely.

Can they be some coincidence? Perhaps.

But there are some museum folklore…which the staff take surprisingly seriously.

No one knows exactly why, but…

  • Never whistle in the Spirit Vault.
  • It’s considered very bad luck. Enough said.
  • Always greet the Komodo Dragon in the jar.
  • Apparently, “he gets grumpy” if you don’t.

Now, I know, you will ask me….” why all this?”

Well, I believe the people who came up with these peculiar codes have seen things most of us couldn’t handle. Those who work in the archives speak in quiet tones about odd happenings… and follow an unofficial code with absolute conviction…

  • Never mock the dead.
  • Never take selfies with the Spirit Collection jars.
  • Always nod respectfully at the mummified animals.

Why, there are such strange rules? Certainly. But they weren’t written on a whim. These superstitions likely stem from years of trial, error… and a few accidents best left off the record.

Many a time, staff were seen fainted on the museum floors, they talked about strange dreams after touching some particular items, some scientists even reported hearing some auditory illusion with whispering, breathing, and all. Some incidents were dismissed. Others quietly documented. But the stories persist.

 It is believed that this museum has some allegedly cursed items, which come with their own eerie legends. And I’ll be honest…I won’t be listing those allegedly cursed artifacts here. Not because I’m scared (okay, maybe a little), but because each comes with a trail of bad luck — and frankly, I’d rather not tempt fate.

I believe the Natural History Museum isn’t just built from Victorian stone and scientific wonder. It’s built on centuries of death, discovery, and unspoken memory. Science hasn’t quite caught up with the strange happenings in this place. Maybe one day, it will. Till then, you’ll just have to wait.

On that note, I’ll pause this story for now. But do plan a visit to this museum. Who knows, maybe some of you can uncover the reasons behind these unexplained occurrences.

In my next London blog, I’ll take you somewhere equally fascinating.

Until then, stay curious, stay brave… and if possible don’t whistle in dark hallways while in NHM.

This is Rita, signing off.

Everything you need to know about south bank walk london

Published on by Rita MLeave a comment

How boring do you think the South Bank walk is?

Well, I get it. It can feel a bit dull on gloomy, grey days. But have you ever seen South Bank on a bright, sunny afternoon? Trust me, you don’t want to miss that.

I know many dismiss the South Bank walk as just a 2.5-mile stretch of “unnecessary walking.”

But is it really? Absolutely not.

I believe, whenever you get a chance to go on a long walk, especially in London…you should always grab it with both hands. And, there is no better place for it than the south bank. It’s the most vibrant and scenic riverside stroll in the city.

But, yes…I too agree, it’s a bit of a long walk. That’s exactly why it helps to know what to expect, so you can get the most out of it. This 4 Km long walk covers so many iconic landmarks and legendary sights on both sides of the river. Without a little homework, you could miss some incredible hidden gems along the way.

But don’t worry… I’ve got you covered.

In this blog, I will guide you through it, but before that come let’s see why why the South Bank walk is worth every step?

What can South Bank Walk offer you?

Well, everything.

History, art, culture, entertainment, or even a peaceful moment by the river—whatever you’re looking for, the South Bank has it. More importantly, it shows you the North Bank of London through its eyes.

But, let’s start with the south side of the river…

First up, the London Eye. The most striking structure of the south bank. Towering over the Thames at 135 meters, it offers breathtaking views of London’s skyline. And, on clear day you can easily see as far as Windsor Castle. Not bad for a start, right? But, for South Bank, it’s just the beginning.

There’s more.

It would be a crime not to mention Shakespeare’s Globe, it’s right across the river. Come and watch a play here. f you’re not heading to Stratford-upon-Avon anytime soon, this is the place to soak in that Elizabethan-era vibe and catch a performance the way it was meant to be seen.

And, then if you are an art lover, there’s always Tate Modern. Housed in a former power station, this place has the world’s most striking contemporary art. If you were looking for Picasso in London, this is where you will find him.

Apart from these three common attractions, you should set aside some time to spend a while in the south bank center. With its poetry readings, literature festivals, street performances, and live music, it’s an artistic explosion in the best way.

And, while exploring, why not visit the National Theatre? From Shakespearean classics to groundbreaking modern plays, it never fails to enthrall…not even a single day.

Now, it might sound a little ironical…but one of the biggest perks of walking the South Bank?

The view of London North Bank.

So, how’s the view from the other side?

In a word, it’s breathtaking.

It’s a game in itself…’ How many iconic north bank landmarks you can name correctly?’

As you walk along, you’ll see there’s St. Paul’s Cathedral, standing tall and majestic, the tallest building of The Shard piercing the sky, and the mysterious tower of London.

Oh, I almost forgot about Big Ben and the House of Parliament. But, when you are on South Bank the chimes of Big Ben won’t let you forget about it.

It’s all right there…just across the Thames.

And, how’s the vibe?

Sure, it’s busy. But not the annoying kind of busy.

It’s alive.

To me, South Bank is the laughter of tourists, the quiet musings of locals, the rhythm of footsteps on old stone paths, and that hum of a saxophonist playing to no one in particular…yet touching everyone in passing. For Londoners, the South Bank is both an escape. But, for tourists, it’s the moment they realize they’ve fallen in love with the city.

I believe, to get the best of South Bank, it is important you reserve a whole day for it.

The morning here starts rather gently. You will find very few tourists clutching takeaway coffees lean against the railings, planning the day ahead. But, as the sun climbs… the artists, musicians, and book lovers begin to take their places. At Gabriel’s Wharf, painters set up their easels, and near the South Bank Center, you will find some street musicians or a lively jazz band lost in their own melody.

South Bank is a place for all kinds of art lovers. But, if you are a book lover, don’t forget to browse the outdoor stalls under Waterloo Bridge.

I would say, keep your afternoon booked for Tate Modern, and Shakespear Globe followed by a delightful lunch at a nearby borough market…and come back to the riverside when the sun dips behind Westminster.  Trust me, the South Bank takes on a different kind of beauty as London enters into its Golden hour. You may not want to miss it at all.

This is the time when Friends start to gather at riverside cafés, you can even hear the distant wine glasses clinking. I would suggest you to be a part of it. There’s the Oxo tower with stunning views of St Paul’s Cathedral. Whether it’s a date night or a solo indulgence, it’s a perfect way to end the walk.

And, before leaving South Bank walk… wander through those quirky boutiques, charming cafes, and indie design studios of Gabriel’s Wharf.

Let’s make the walk more interesting.

Do you know before modern bridges altered the flow of the Thames, the river occasionally froze completely solid during the Little Ice Age? At that time, the people of South Bank used to hold Frost fairs on ice. Wow!!

This very place also hosted the Festival of Britain in 1951. In case you don’t already know, that grand event which celebrated the post-war recovery of the country, shaped South Bank into the cultural destination it is today.

Do you want to know more?

The South Bank walk can be more fascinating when you know its little underground secret. Beneath the ground, there lies a network of tunnels that were used as bomb shelters during World War II. People say that some of those tunnels even lead to iconic landmarks.

Talking about WWII, you know, it was devastated during the Blitz. Yes, South Bank suffered heavy bombing due to its industrial warehouses and docks. The area was so damaged…that later it had no other option but to be redeveloped into a cultural quarter.

Next, I have one for music lovers. Do you know many famous musicians started their careers performing along South Bank? It’s true….it even includes famous singer Ed Sheeran.

Like every other part of London, South Bank Walk is part of an English legend as well. Ever heard of that South Bank Ghost Ship? Often, Locals and night-watchers report seeing a phantom ship sailing on the Thames, supposedly from the 16th century. The Legend says it’s the ghost of a ship lost in a storm, cursed to sail the Thames forever.

Does that make you scared of a late-night river walk on the South Bank? I doubt it.

If you’re okay heading home late—don’t skip a night walk along the South Bank. Because that’s when London really speaks to you. With its sparkling lights, and distant music the city is more unforgettable than amazing….timeless, alive, and waiting to tell another story.

On that note, I would come back with another London blog to make you fall in love with London some more.

Until then, this is Rita…signing off.

That Green Bridge of London: Story of Westminster Bridge

Published on by Rita MLeave a comment

If you think of London, I know the first thing that comes to your mind is Big Ben. But what comes next? Obviously, the thing that catches your eye, right?

The Westminster Bridge, of course.

That spooky green bridge stretching across the River Thames allows you a stunning view of Big Ben and the London Eye in the distance. And hardly anyone would believe you if you say…you didn’t fantasize about taking a classic Instagram-worthy photo on this bridge keeping Big Ben in the backdrop. Seeing those Uber boats gliding under the bridge, I bet everyone will wish they were on one of them.

And just like that, this bridge clears up your mind on where to go next… London eye? South bank walk? Or a cruise on the River Thames.

But, yes…when my turn came…instead of choosing anything else, I decided to spend a little longer on the bridge. Why?

Well, the bridge struck me differently than any other landmark in London.

Of course, it was the perfect place for sunrise and sunset photography, but I was more intrigued by how the bridge has been breathing over the centuries or what it has witnessed. I felt something different standing there…and that’s why my curiosity led me to do more research on this landmark…and hence, coming up with this blog.

I know, many out there would argue that years of hype around Big Ben has made westminster bridge england really famous. Is that really the case?

To answer this question let me take you back to November 1750.

A Bridge Born to unite London

Yes, the story of Westminster Bridge begins in the early 18th century. It’s that old…probably older than your great-grandfather’s grandfather.

Back then, the only way to cross the Thames in central London was via the medieval London Bridge, which was miles away. With time, the growing population and commercial activity in Westminster made it clear that the city needed a new passage over the river. But, of course, not everyone was thrilled by the idea. The watermen who ferried passengers across the river didn’t like any such proposition …. they feared losing business of course and therefore, put up a strong resistance delaying the bridge’s construction for years.

But, fate had other plans…South Bank wasn’t supposed to stay lonely forever. Hence, after many heated arguments over tea, the construction of Westminster Bridge finally began in 1739. And, after 11 years, in 1750 the bridge was ready opening up access to the South Bank of London.

However, with the turn of the century, it needed something more than a renovation….a complete rebirth. This time, with the help of Victorian Engineering from the architectural masterminds of then London…the westminster bridge design had seven graceful arches and a cast-iron structure which made the bridge stand the test of time for several centuries. For a finishing touch, the bridge chose a striking green hue for itself…perhaps, deciding to be just as iconic as its famous neighbor big ben.

… and it was ready.

Strategic Importance of the Bridge

Well, it was not just a crossing for tourists seeking the best view of majestic Big Ben or the House of Parliament’s sunset on the River Thames. The bridge was born to play crucial roles in the history of London.

It physically linked Westminster—the political heart of the United Kingdom—to the bustling london south bank. In the last 300 years, this bridge has witnessed countless royal possessions, farewells, revolutions, and reconciliations. During World War II, the bridge stood unshaken through the Blitz.

In 1953 during the coronation, Queen Elizabeth II along with the Duke of Edinburgh crossed the bridge in the grand Gold State Coach waving to the cheering crowds lining the streets. Then again in 1977, Westminster Bridge once again took center stage in the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Queen’s reign.

Looks like, the bridge has a soft spot for the British Royal family.

Not only this, once upon a time, William Wordsworth famously stood on Westminster Bridge and the bridge didn’t fail to inspire him to write his sonnet. Even today, artists come to the bridge, set their easels, and try their best to capture the beauty of Big Ben in its sunset glow.

And what about tourists?

Do you think tourists love this bridge just because it gives a perfect shot? Well, no. There’s more to it.

I know, you have guessed it.

Westminster Bridge is a gateway. Cross it, and suddenly, the entire South Bank is at your feet. There, greeting the South Bank Lion, tourists can stroll along the Queen’s Walk… where they pause for a while…unable to choose whether to pop into the London Dungeon or visit the SEA LIFE Aquarium.

But, finally, they decide to hop on the London Eye… eager to see the city from above. They love the view of the Golden Big Ben, Parliament House, and of course the green Westminster Bridge in the backdrop of blue London Sky.

Believe it or not, a bridge like this can set the mood for tourists.

Next time, when you are there…I would ask you to take a moment’s pause, forget about the next stop, and soak in the vibe of London from Westminster Bridge. Lean against those green railings and watch the birds fly past this bridge. As you spend some time watching that small white flight flying above Big Ben, a red double-decker bus might roll by or a cruise boat may glide under the bridge beneath you.

But despite those sounds of hurried footsteps around you, you will find a strange sense of calm…just like other thousands of people who choose to walk on this bridge every day.

But…other than all these, you may be feeling something else as well, especially after sunset or before sunrise.

Legends that linger

Being the oldest of its kind, Westminster Bridge has its fair share of myths and eerie tales as well.

Let’s start with the less spooky ones.

It’s known to many that the green color of the bridge was chosen to match the benches in the House of Commons. But, conspiracy theorists argue that the shade was chosen based on an ancient Celtic tradition, where green symbolized protection from malevolent spirits.

Do you think those Victorians knew something that they didn’t bother to tell us?

I don’t know whether there’s any spiritual motive behind choosing the color…but yeah, I must say that it was a very wise decision to add a green bridge to London’s aesthetic.

Anyway, let’s move on to other interesting facts.

Do you know…many say that the mood of the bridge is different during times of national crisis and great celebration? Yes, they even claim to feel it in the air while walking on it.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to feel anything of this sort while I was there.

But from Londoners, I heard something else…some old legends, which sent a shiver down my spine. The bridge was spookier than I could imagine.

There are some legends they strongly believe and locals say there are real witnesses.

Have you heard about the infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper? Well, the legend is about him. Many believe that he threw himself into the Thames from westminster bridge england. On foggy nights, as the clock nears midnight, some claim to have seen him in a shadowy form lurking on the bridge.

I can simply wonder how the ghost of such an infamous serial killer can be if those people are telling the truth…Someone, please tell me that the story is made up to scare people only.

The next one’s quite sad though. It’s the tale of the weeping woman. Many talk about her appearing sometimes at the bridge’s edge in those old Victorian attire. She sobs inconsolably and when anyone approaches her…she throws herself into the River Thames disappearing before hitting the water. Some say she was a heartbroken lover who ended her life at the bridge, while others believe she is trapped in an endless loop repeating her final moments again and again. But, I am yet to reveal the most terrifying part of the tale…she whispers something, that no one could understand ever.

I remember when I first heard about this legend…Of course, I won’t admit that I was scared. But, it was really difficult for me that night to keep the lights off.

You know, there’s more of such stories. Let me tell you another.

There’s the tale of a Headless monk who appears on the bridge at midnight and vanishes into thin air in a twinkle of an eye. But, it is widely believed that his appearance is only a premonition of an impending disaster for the city.

Well, I have just told you a few…there’re still more. Many more.

But, there’s no concrete evidence behind these tales. These are just part of urban legends I believe.

Anyway, don’t worry at all…none of the ghostly activities (even from those legends) start before midnight. So, as long as you catch the last bus or the tube, you’ll leave Westminster Bridge with nothing but beautiful memories. After all, there are much better things to do in London at night.

And lastly…whether you come to Westminster Bridge for views, history or simply to chase the ghosts, one thing is sure….this iconic bridge will leave an impression on you.

And on that note, I’ll wrap up here today. Stay tuned for my next London Blog!

Cheerio!

Decoding Big Ben: Is it just a tall clock tower?

Published on by Rita MLeave a comment

Anna Quindlen once wrote, “London opens to you like a novel itself… it\’s divided into chapters, chapters into scenes, the scenes into sentences; it opens to you like a series of rooms, doors, and passages.”

Today, I finally decided to open the chapter titled Big Ben.

Ever since my childhood, London was the city of my dreams. I do not remember imagining the city ever without its Big Ben. This 164-year-old Big Ben always seemed more romantic to me than being an architectural masterpiece. It’s like… if you stand under the clock tower with clothes warm enough to keep you cozy, without meaning to, your fingers will reach for your partner’s. You will want to kiss them, share some sweet nothings with them.

And just like that… Big Ben ceases to be a mere landmark. If a place can make you feel that way, isn’t it perfect in every sense?

If you just want the facts—height, age, history, basic details—there’s always Wikipedia and thousands other websites. But, none of them would tell you how Big Ben etches itself into your soul and makes a permanent place in your memory with its unbeatable charm. You can’t call Big Ben just a clock tower, it’s definitely more than that. It’s the heartbeat of a city, a silent constant of London’s skyline whispering stories through time. If you truly wish to feel London to its core and let its spirit wrap around you… begin with Big Ben.

And where better to start than at its very birth?

A tower born from Fire

Yes, the story of Big Ben began in tragedy. In 1834, a fire ravaged the old Palace of Westminster. It left London in desperate need of a new parliamentary complex. But this time, it couldn\’t be about rebuilding only. London wanted something extraordinarily symbolic to the spirit of Britain. So, a competition was held to design the Westminster’s new Palace.

And it was British Architect Sir Charles Barry’s design of clock tower which

emerged victorious making him the chief architect of the Big Ben project. But, unfortunately, Barry was no expert in clock making—that responsibility fell to Edmund Beckett Denison, an amateur horologist who would go on to design one of the most precise timekeeping mechanisms in history. Later, the Gothic Revival-style tower of Big Ben was finalized by Augustus Pugin, who added several intricate design to this masterpiece.

Anyway, the construction, which began in 1843, was anything but smooth. It took 16 years of relentless craftsmanship, endless problem-solving, and patience before Big Ben was finally ready in 1859. The greatest challenge was the designing of the Great Clock which intended to be the most accurate public clock in the world. The big ben designers were trying to incorporate a revolutionary gravity escapement mechanism that can make sure that external factors like the weather couldn’t interfere with its precision. Though it took time, but they successfully implemented the mechanism to the clock. However, the journey to perfection was paved with broken bells, rust issues due to London’s damp air, and countless setbacks.

But it was all worth it when in 1859 this 316 feet tower stood tall, ready to mark history with its unmistakable big ben chimes.

Now for last 165 years, Big Ben has stood tall, a silent witness to history’s grandest moments. It heard the first shots of World War I and the last echoes of World War II, chiming through the reigns of Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth II. Once known as St. Stephen’s Tower, the clock tower big ben stood undaunted as the Blitz raged over London, its bells unwavering even as the city rebuilt itself.

Beneath its gaze, the Hansom Cab once ruled the streets, giving way to the Lanchester 10 HP, the regal Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, the suave Aston Martin DB5, and now, the silent hum of Teslas gliding into the future. Through farewells, and the birth of a new millennium, Big Ben remained unchanged—a steadfast guardian of time in a world forever racing forward.

An Architectural Love Letter

Big Ben isn’t just a pretty face, it represents the height of Victorian engineering and craftsmanship. The chimes of big ben have marked historic moments being the silent witness to everything London went through. This grand clock tower has also inspired countless clock towers across the globe, from the Peace Tower in Ottawa to Mumbai’s Rajabai Clock Tower.

I believe Big Ben is in true sense a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, isn\’t it? Its verticality, pointed arches, and meticulous detailing give it an almost celestial aura…never failing to impress its audience. The tower has four faces ( big ben clock faces), each 23 feet in diameter being one of the largest in its own category. But, the iron-made hour hand stretches only to 9 feet, while the minute hand to an astonishing 14 feet. The bells inside the tower are made of bronze and weigh around 13.5 tons, delivering a chime so deep and resonant that it feels like it is the sound of London breathing.

Here’s a fun fact—do you know that the name ‘Big Ben’ originally referred to the Great Bell inside the tower? Later it was decided to call the entire structure Big Ben. Oh another thing, if you decide to ever go inside Big Ben, don’t expect an elevator. Unlike other world-famous clock towers, Big Ben gives you a chance to climb a 334-step spiral ascent allowing you to relish that old school tower charm.

Honestly, 334 steps is no joke, I understand. If you are an Asthma patient or suffering from chronic Arthritis, reconsider climbing these many steps.

Have you noticed one thing about the clock dial of Big Ben recently? Since the last restoration, it’s been brought back to the original Prussian blue color, this was the color Architect Pugin selected initially in mid-19th century.

Before I stop rambling about architecture (I promise, just one last thing!), here\’s a little secret hidden within Big Ben’s towering grandeur. Tucked away behind its stately façade lies a tiny prison cell—yes, you read that right. It was historically used as a temporary detention room for MPs who breached parliamentary conduct rules. In 1880, an Atheist MP, Charles Bradlaugh earned himself a detention in this room for refusing to swear a religious oath and he was locked there overnight until he learned a lesson. Though the room no longer holds MPs thrown out of the chamber, but it still exists.

Now, don’t you think that you can check out this special prison room- it’s not for tourists or common people to enter. It’s concealed behind a special door which can only be accessed through a particular chamber in Parliament.

Legends, Myths & Mystique around Big Ben

Did you really think the storytellers and legend-weavers would leave Big Ben untouched? When has the world ever resisted spinning myths around an icon? No. And that is why, Big Ben also has its fair share of whispered tales.

There’s the eerie tale of Big Ben striking 13 times at midnight…How can a clock strike more than 12th time? Apparently, British believers mark it as an omen of doom, particularly for the Royal Family. Also, the folklore suggests that, if Big Ben clock strikes 13th  time at midnight the stone lions at Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square will awaken and they will walk around the streets of London.

Apart from these two, there isn’t much of weird speculation about Big Ben …except for one. Even today, some still believe the name of Big Ben came from Sir Benjamin Hall, a rather large man who oversaw the bell’s installation. I am glad that many still do not believe in it… I so want the name of Big Ben to be born out of something grander.

One can’t measure the value of Big Ben in hours and minutes, but in moments only- it guards memories, holds secrets of heart and stands as a silent witness to our every fleeting moment. To me, Big Ben will always remain the thrill of a first kiss beneath its towering face. Somewhere, it gives me a comforting certainty that no matter how far I wander, I know that if I ever return, Big Ben will still be there—ready to listen to my side as if it had been waiting for me all along..

Big Ben truly helps one realize that time isn’t meant to be chased. It’s meant to be cherished…After all, when time is wrapped in history and emotion, it is never just time- It’s Magic.

And on that note, let’s move on to my next London blog—before reality tries to dull the magic…