Arrival and security
Entry to UK Parliament is step-free. You must pass through security searches.
Preparing for your visit
Before leaving home, remember to bring your ticket, invitation, or confirmation letter if you have one. You will need to show this to enter.
Read more about access and assistance devices before you arrive.
Easy read guide: Arrival and Security (pdf, 5MB)
Arrival
Cromwell Green visitor entrance on St Margaret Street is step-free and there is a downward slope. There are handrails on both sides of the ramp and it is wide enough for large, motorised wheelchairs. This ramp takes you to the security search point.
Visitors to Cromwell Green with a valid Access Card can present the card on arrival to a member of the Visitor Experience staff to gain fast track entry.
Arrive in time to queue for and pass through our security searches which includes x-ray scanning of all people and their belongings. You may have to queue outside for a while, particularly during busy periods. You should ensure you have suitable clothing. The wait time to get through security is up to 30 minutes on average. At busier times, like Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, the average time is 45 minutes.
If you have trouble standing for long periods, please speak to a Visitor Assistant. We can arrange fast tracking or provide a wheelchair.
Security search point
The security area may be difficult for some visitors. This could be due to the procedure, noise, and contact with other people. The procedure is strict, to make sure everyone coming into UK Parliament is safe.
If you have sharp items for medical reasons, please speak to a member of security when you arrive.
All our security staff have undertaken disability awareness training. They can explain what is happening in more detail.
Let the security officers know if you want the search to take place in a quieter area, away from other people. The officer doing the patting-down will be the same gender. You can have a companion with you at all times.
If required, one of our Visitor Assistants can meet you outside and take you through security and on to your destination inside. You must arrange this in advance.
- Call 020 7219 0516
- For Text phone dial 18001 followed by 020 7219 0516
- Email the Visitor Experience team
There are some items that you cannot bring into UK Parliament.
Illegal items
It’s illegal in the UK to carry certain self-defence items which are allowed in other countries.
You will be arrested if you are found carrying:
- guns
- knives with a blade over 7.7cm (3 inches)
- flick knives
- butterfly knives
- personal defence sprays
- Restricted items
If you have any of the following items when going through security, you will need to hand them in and collect them when you leave from the entrance at which you were screened:
- knives including Swiss army knives
- scissors and cutlery
- screwdrivers and tools
- padlocks, chains, and climbing gear
- whistles and items that make a noise
- banners, placards and flags
- political or offensive slogan materials including clothing
- open liquids or semi-liquid foods with the exception of baby milk or food
Visual guide to items prohibited in Parliament (pdf, 472KB)
Other items may be held during your visit. Items not collected on the day will be taken to the Lost Property Office.
You may also be subject to secondary searches once inside the Parliamentary Estate.
Once you are through security, you will receive your visitor pass. This comes with a lanyard to wear around your neck. Please display your pass at all times during your visit and hand it back as you leave.
Entering Westminster Hall
The main entrance to Westminster Hall has two large heavy wooden doors. Staff are available to help you with the doors.
