United Kingdom Parliament

We went to the Palace of Westminster, home of the United Kingdom Parliament.  We couldn't see much of the House of Lords because the Queen had been there that day for the State Opening of Parliament, a ceremonial occasion.  The Queen's Speech (written for her by the government) sets the working agenda for the coming year.  We got a peek at the Chamber where the Queen and Prince Phillip had sat on fancy chairs with gold doors behind them.  We had to go through security to get in and we signed this Declaration -
"I undertake not to make any interruption or disturbance in the galleries and to comply with any instruction from staff in the House of Lords."  We were patted down to get a temporary ID with a blurry picture to get in.  I kept mine as a souvenir. 

Big Ben

We spent more time in the House of Commons.  We sat behind plexiglass in the gallery (not as elaborate as the House of Lords) to watch the Members of Parliament (MP's) discuss issues.  The Speaker of the House would call on different MP's to respond on behalf of their constituents.  It was interesting and to be honest, it was nice to be able to sit down after all the sightseeing!

House of Parliament

We walked around Westminster Hall which was completed in 1099 and is still used for ceremonial events.  The Central Lobby is beautiful!