Palace of Westminster, London, UK, aerial view. The Palace of Westminster (down centre) lies on the north bank of the River Thames, although as the river runs north-south in this area it is actually on the west side. Also known as the Houses of Parliament, the palace contains both the House of Lords and the House of Commons. Its two prominent towers are revealed by their long shadows, the Victoria Tower is at bottom centre, and the Clock Tower, which houses Big Ben, is at upper centre. Westminster Bridge crosses the Thames to the right of the Clock Tower. Parliament Square is at upper left, from which Whitehall runs northwards.