Big Ben

The sound of Big Ben and the image of its tower are synonymous with London.

The BBC has recorded how this iconic landmark has played its part in our history, from being a symbol of defiance amid the destruction of the Blitz to providing the chimes that ushered in a new millennium.

BBC presenters have also taken us with them as they get up close to Big Ben and reveal the secrets of the mechanisms that have powered the clock since 1859, keeping it working to near perfection.