Big Ben is probably the world’s most famous clock. That iconic silhouette is instantly recognisable and is one of the most Instagrammed landmarks on the planet.

Six monarchs and 41 prime ministers have come and gone since the bells first struck their now familiar music across Westminster.

Here we tell Big Ben’s historic story in words and images. It’s a rich tale of drama, intrigue and politics. Discover why it was built, the engineers and clockmakers who created this horological masterpiece and the incredible efforts being made to restore Big Ben to its former glory, even exceed it.