Parliament Hinges Explained | Yorkshire Ironmongery

Aged brass Parliament hinge, an example of an extended-throw door hinge

Aged Brass 4" x 3" x 5" Parliament Hinge (pair) ss, from our current range.

What is a Parliament hinge?

A Parliament hinge, sometimes called a projection hinge, has an extended throw, meaning it is built to pivot further out from the door edge than a standard butt hinge. This allows the door to swing all the way back flat against the wall, clearing obstructions such as deep architraves, skirting boards, dado rails or radiators that would otherwise stop a standard hinge from letting the door open a full 180 degrees.

The name comes from their traditional use in the Houses of Parliament, where thick walls and deep panelling meant standard hinges could not open doors fully.

Where Parliament hinges are used

Doors near radiators or deep skirting – the extended throw clears obstructions a standard hinge would catch on
Doors requiring a full 180 degree opening – useful where a door needs to sit flat against the wall, for example to allow furniture to pass through fully open
Thick walls and deep architraves – common in older or solidly built properties where wall depth affects how far a door can swing

Choosing the right Parliament hinge

A few practical points are worth checking before you buy:

Projection size – Parliament hinges are sized by both height and projection; measure the obstruction you need to clear
Weight rating – ensure the hinge is rated for your door's weight, particularly on solid timber doors
Number fitted – heavier doors may need three or four hinges rather than the standard two

Related products

Browse our current range in Door Hinges, or see the related Butt Hinges guide.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if I need a Parliament hinge?

If your door currently cannot open fully flat against the wall because it catches on a radiator, deep skirting or architrave, a Parliament hinge's extended throw will usually solve this.

Are Parliament hinges more expensive than standard hinges?

They are typically somewhat more expensive than a standard butt hinge due to the more complex extended design, but are usually the only practical solution to a projection problem.