Big Ben’s clock chimes are commonly heard in United Kingdom New Year’s Eve broadcasts from London.
Big Ben is the nickname of the Great Bell of the Great Clock of Westminster, housed in the Elizabeth Tower at the Palace of Westminster. Strictly speaking, Big Ben is the bell, not the entire tower or clock. In everyday speech, however, the name is often used for the whole landmark.
At midnight, the clock’s chimes provide an audible signal for the start of the new year. Television coverage may pair the sound with views of the clock, fireworks, or crowds along the River Thames. The London Eye is frequently visible in New Year images, but it is a Ferris wheel and does not provide the famous chimes.
The current Elizabeth Tower and clock were part of the rebuilding of the Palace of Westminster after the old palace burned in 1834. The Great Bell first struck in 1859.