Parliament is open to all UK residents through a variety of different programmes and events. Guided tours take visitors around the key areas of the estate, such as the Commons and Lords chambers and can include a trip up the Clock Tower - more popularly known as Big Ben.

Parliament's Education Service runs a year-round programme of school visits, which may include a question and answer session with the school's MP. The Parliamentary Archives, which hold millions of records from both Houses and other historical material, are open to all members of the UK public and overseas visitors.

Free tours are held throughout the year, and you need to arrange a place through your MP. Please note that tours are very popular and places are limited. Tours generally have to be booked about six months in advance. Visitors can pay for a tour during the Summer Opening, in advance or by queuing on the day.

Parliament and its functions:

Parliament is an essential part of UK politics. Its main roles are:

• Examining and challenging the work of the government (scrutiny)
• Debating and passing all laws (legislation)
• Enabling the government to raise taxes

The business of Parliament takes place in two Houses: the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Parliament examines and challenges the work of government and is responsible for approving new laws (legislation).

Both Houses hold debates in which Members discuss government policy, proposed legislation and current issues. UK devolution created a national Parliament in Scotland, a national Assembly in Wales and a national Assembly in Northern Ireland.