reasons to visit tower of london

5 Top Reasons to Visit the Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the top tourist attractions in London, and for good reason. Its history spans over 1,000 years as a royal residence, prison, and execution site, and was visited by some of the most famous figures in British history.

In addition to its history, there are many activities and sites to see within the castle walls. Here are the five top reasons why you should visit the Tower of London:

1. It’s an attraction the whole family can enjoy

From adults to young children, the Tower of London can appeal to all age ranges. Adults can’t help but be intrigued by the history of the place; from the legend of the murdered Princes to Anne Boleyn’s beheading. Children enjoy running around the castle courtyard and exploring the castle corridors. And everyone loves staring at all the bright, sparkly Crown Jewels.

2. The Beefeater tours are legendary

Beefeaters, otherwise known as Yeoman Warders, are the ceremonial guards at the Tower of London. They were traditionally responsible for looking after prisoners kept at the Tower and safeguarding the Crown Jewels. Now they are tour guides at the Tower, and tourist attractions in their own right. They actually live at the Tower, and have fascinating stories to tell about the Tower, not to mention a wonderful sense of humor.

3. The Tower of London is a Tudor history hotspot

The Tudor dynasty included some of the most intriguing characters in British history, and many dramatic events from that time period. These events included:

Where many of the monarchs spent the night before their coronation ceremony. The coronation procession historically begins at the Tower of London.
The execution of Anne Boleyn , King Henry VIII’s 2nd wife
The execution of Catherine Howard , King Henry VIII’s 5th wife
The site of the entire reign, imprisonment, and execution of Lady Jane Grey, Queen of Nine Days
The imprisonment of Princess Elizabeth by the order of her sister Mary I

4. The Tower of London is the home of the Crown Jewels

The Crown Jewels are the regalia worn by the sovereign of the UK at the coronation ceremony and other state events. It includes the Imperial State Crown, which was made in 1937 for King George VI and was worn by Queen Elizabeth II during her coronation ceremony and every year after at the State Opening of Parliament. Two of the three pearls dangling from the crown were once worn by Queen Elizabeth I .

5. It’s in the heart of London

The Tower of London, unlike Windsor Castle or Hever Castle, is in the heart of London and is extremely convenient to get to. The Tower Hill tube stop exists right outside the castle (literally at Tower Hill where most of the Tower of London executions occurred). It’s also very close to some of London’s other top tourist attractions including the Tower Bridge, making it easy to plan a full day’s itinerary without requiring much travel.

A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Tower of London. What is your favorite thing to see at the Tower of London? Let me know in the comments below!

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8 Fascinating Reasons to Visit the Tower of London

Post author: Rachel Means
Post last modified: 2023-10-25

Planning a trip to London and working on your must-see list? If you don’t visit the Tower of London, you’ll regret it!

Built in the 11 th century, The Tower of London has been around for almost a 1000 years! This fortress has served multiple purposes throughout that time and has something for everyone. See 500 year old carvings from political prisoners. Gush over the Crown Jewels. Marvel over medieval armor and weaponry from around the world.

Here are 8 intriguing reasons why you should include the Tower of London on your must-see list.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

8 Intriguing Reasons to Tour the Tower of London

The White Tower and the southern outer wall of the TOwer of London lit up at night and reflected in the Thames River

1. Castles are awesome.

Who doesn’t love a good castle?

They can be a bit difficult to reach sometimes, but this one is conveniently located in the middle of the city and easily accessible via the Tower Hill tube station.

Side Note : Does anyone else think the announcer lady on the Tube is a bit too cheery when she says Tower Hill? Something to listen for when you visit…

After his successful invasion in 1066, William the Conqueror decided this ancient Roman site was the perfect place to build a new castle to keep an eye on London and its people. He built the original castle walls, White Tower, and moat, portions of which remain to this day.

As time passed, the castle evolved into a formidable fortress . More time passed, the moat was drained, and the Tower’s main purpose today is protecting the Crown Jewels .

2. The Tower of London was an infamous prison.

Probably the most well-known use for the Tower of London. Once upon a time being sent to the Tower was a terrifying affair, often ending in your tortured confession and death on nearby Tower Hill. Visit the Bloody Tower and learn more in the Dungeons .

Artist's black and white rendition of two small boys at a window in the Tower of London

But if you were an important political foe you were sent to the Tower, arriving via the Thames through Traitor’s Gate , to be detained until they could come up with a reason to execute you.

Many prisoners carved messages into the walls of their rooms to pass the time, and you can see these carvings throughout the Tower.

Infamous King Henry VIII had two of his six wives beheaded here at Tower Green. In the chaos that followed his death, more would meet their end here.

Visit Beauchamp Tower and look out the same window those doomed souls did at the spot on Tower Green where they would be beheaded. Creepy.

Other famous prisoners throughout the centuries include William Wallace, Edward V and his brother Richard (the Lost Princes in the Tower), Guy Fawkes, and Rudolph Hess.

A well-built castle is just as good at keeping people in as it is at keeping others out. The last execution was a German spy in 1941, and the last prisoners held here were the Kray Twins in 1952.

3. Money, money, money

Castles are great for protection. The Tower of London being no exception, it housed the Royal Mint and Treasury for a period of time. Check out the mint rooms, to the left as you enter from the drawbridge.

See early coins and learn about the Great Recoinage of 1696, headed up by none other than Isaac Newton.

You may know Newton as the guy that discovered gravity and those useful laws of motion, but he was also into alchemy (his version of chemistry).

Newton’s buddy got him an appointment as the Warden of the Mint, and Newton standardized the metal composition of British coins.

But Newton knew how to have a good time, too. He would go to pubs dressed incognito and catch coin counterfeiters! Now that’s a fun retirement plan!

He also oversaw the minting of new coins for Queen Anne’s ascension to the throne, and she kindly knighted him in 1705.

4. See the British Crown Jewels up close.

All those magnificent royal jewels must be stored and guarded somewhere incredibly safe. After all, the Crown Jewels have never been successfully stolen. Melted down after the Civil War, sure, but never stolen!

See the monarchy’s truly stunning array of jewels, crowns, scepters, and other accessories. See the coronation crown up close.

Ever seen a diamond the size of an egg? The largest cut white diamond in the world is the Cullinan I diamond in the Sovereign’s Scepter, and it’s on display here.

No photography allowed in the Jewel House, but don’t miss this!

Once you finish the tour, be sure to continue to the rooms in the northeast corner of the Tower for more information and displays of jewels, as well as the jewel themed gift shop!

5. Lions and Tigers and Bears!

Trading exotic animals as gifts on state visits used to be commonplace. The monarchy needed somewhere to put all these “gifts” and so a menagerie was installed at the Tower.

Everything from elephants and polar bears to lions and monkeys made the Tower their home. Trouble was, the animals weren’t always properly cared for or contained.

Keepers knew nothing about the animals gifted to them. How were they to know that elephants are herbivores? A polar bear was even allowed to swim and fish in the Thames!

Visitors touched and fed the animals, ending with a few nasty incidents where visitors were attacked. After the last such incident in the early 1800s and with the rise of modern zookeeping and animal rights, the animals were removed from the Tower to Regent’s Park and became the founding members of the London Zoo .

Wire sculptures of various animals can be seen all around the Tower grounds, and there are exhibits in the former Monkey House in the north wall, near the Crown Jewels exhibit.

6. Armor and weapons belong in a castle.

The iconic White Tower at the center of the Tower of London houses several floors worth of armor through the ages and many of the weapons the Crown has received as gifts from foreign nations. Watch Henry VIII’s armor grow in size with him as he ages!

The White Tower is a large white stone building in the center of the Tower.

Word of warning: this requires quite a few flights of stairs but there are benches to rest on each floor.

The first platform on the south entrance stairs outside the Tower reveals a forgotten staircase with hidden bones discovered during a renovation. The bones are believed to be the Lost Princes (Edward V and his younger brother Richard). Learn more about the Lost Princes here .

7. Beefeaters are hilarious.

A trip to the Tower of London would not be complete without taking a Yeoman Warder tour . Also known as Beefeaters , these men ( and women! ) host guided tours of the Tower, and it is absolutely worth it.

A man in navy blue and red beefeater uniform speaks to a tour group in the Tower of London

Included with your admission, these tours are informative and funny, and the only way you can enter the Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula . That’s important if you want to see Anne Boleyn’s grave or any of the other unlucky residents from the 1500’s Tudor reign.

Each Yeoman Warder has their own personality, but all are good-natured and know their stuff. They can fill you in on all the history of the Tower of London itself, and then they’ll tell you a bit about themselves.

To be eligible to become a Warder, one must have:

Minimum 22 years of military service
Earned the long service and good conduct medal
Reached the level of Warrant Officer

In exchange, they host tours, perform ceremonial duties, and have the privilege of living in the Tower! If you walk along the east battlements, you can see the tops of their quarters.

So that’s why there was a patio lounger on that balcony….

8. Meet the Tower Ravens

The ravens of the Tower of London are based in superstition, but the British aren’t taking any chances.

Legend says if the ravens ever leave the Tower of London, the monarchy will fall. Charles II wasn’t taking any chances. Given what happened to his father, can you blame him?

Superstitious, yes. But they clip the ravens’ flight feathers, just in case. The Ravens can all still fly, but most don’t bother leaving their comfy home in the Tower.

A black raven perched on a stone wall inside the tower of london

Royal decree protects these birds, and they live long, pampered lives. The Tower always keeps seven ravens on-site: the superstitiously required six and a spare.

They enjoy comfortable accommodations with their significant others, free reign inside the Tower, and a diet of raw meat and the occasional blood soaked biscuit.

Visiting The Tower of London

There you have it: 8 reasons to add the Tower of London to your London itinerary .

Looking for other things to do in London? Here are 10 Fun and Free Things to Do in London !

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 36 US states and 14 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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13 Things To Know Before Visiting The Tower Of London

Alexander Chaikin / Shutterstock

Activities and Interests
Destinations
History and Culture
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
United Kingdom

The Tower of London is London’s top paid tourist attraction. Why should you visit? Here are two big reasons.

First, the Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site , and it’s associated with some of the most famous moments in English — and by extension, British — history.

Second, it’s fun. This is a fairly big site with many original historical buildings to explore, each offering something different.

I first went to the Tower after we moved to London and it was on “the list” — everyone’s list. Since then, I have visited many times over the years. In fact, I bought a membership so that I can drop in whenever I’m nearby and have a little time to spare.

Here are 13 things to know before planning a visit.

Claudio Divizia / Shutterstock

1. It’s A Fortress, Not Just A Tower

Before my first visit, I thought the Tower of London was just one tower. I was wrong. It’s a fortress. Two concentric walls enclose the original White Tower and its grounds, like the rings of a bull’s-eye. There are 21 towers connected by passages, stairs, and wall walks and by walkways on the ground outside.

2. The White Tower Was Built By William The Conqueror

The year 1066 is well known in the United Kingdom (there’s a satirical history book called 1066 and All That ) as the year of the Norman Conquest. This was a key event in history.

The simple story is that William, Duke of Normandy, sailed from France with his army and defeated the English King Harold at the Battle of Hastings.

Duke William became King William, known as William the Conqueror. He soon set about strengthening his position.

William had the White Tower built around 1100. This sturdy, square building with its distinctive four towers was both a symbol of power and a defensible place for people, weapons, and treasures.

When you visit the White Tower today, you can see how hard it would have been for an enemy to take it. The thick walls were built to last.

AMG_PHOTO / Shutterstock

3. It Houses The Crown Jewels

The White Tower became a treasure chest for the king’s valuables. That tradition continues in the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels .

It’s hard to believe that all the diamonds, gold, and precious stones here are real, but they are.

A continuously playing film of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation ceremony shows how some of the Crown Jewels and royal regalia are used.

4. It Was Once The Equivalent Of A Luxury Hotel

The Tower of London is more of a fort than a palace. Still, when reigning kings and queens used to stay here, it served as the equivalent of a luxury hotel. The Medieval Palace shows this with a recreated royal bedroom, chapel, and throne room.

5. It Served As A Prison For A Variety Of Notable People

Not only was the Tower of London hard to access, but it was also hard to escape from. For that reason, it often served as a prison for traitors, political prisoners, unwanted wives, and rivals to the throne.

At 20, the future Queen Elizabeth I was detained here for two months by her half sister, Queen Mary I.

The walls of the Beauchamp Tower are covered in the graffiti of many past prisoners, often held for religious reasons. It’s a reminder of the deep rift between Catholics and Protestants that was torn open by King Henry VIII, the most famous of the Tudors.

Sir Walter Raleigh , the explorer who named the state of Virginia, lived as a prisoner with his family in the Bloody Tower for 13 years. You can see a recreation of his study there. Soon after his release in 1616, Raleigh brought Pocahontas here to meet his friend and fellow inmate, the 9th Earl of Northumberland.

Among the last prisoners were the Kray twins , later to become notorious London criminals. Their crime? Failing to stay when called to the national service in 1952.

Neil Mitchell / Shutterstock

6. It Served As A Place Of Execution

Not all prisoners left the Tower alive. A glass pillow near the Beauchamp Tower is a modern memorial honoring those who were executed by order of the state. The most famous are the queens: Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey. Back then, execution by private beheading here, away from the jeering crowds, was a privilege.

The last Tower execution was of an enemy spy by a military firing squad in 1941.

7. It’s Still Home To Members Of The Military

The Tower has been used as an army garrison, and it now houses the Fusilier Museum .

It’s still home to some members of the military. The cottages along the walls accommodate the Yeoman Warders. This elite group consists of retired military men and women with exemplary records who now wear the ‘Beefeater’ uniform, not much changed since the Tudor days.

The other staff members include wardens in blue coats with red trim; people serving in the shops and at the ticket counters; and the costumed interpreters you may meet, especially at the Medieval Palace. I’ve always been impressed by the knowledge and the pride of all the people who work at the Tower.

Pro Tip: Take a free tour with a Yeoman Warder or a warden if you have the chance.

One of the ravens at the Tower of London.

VDB Photos / Shutterstock

8. There Are Seven Resident Ravens

There’s an old story that if the ravens leave the Tower, the kingdom will fall. True? Who knows, but the seven resident ravens are very well looked after.

They are magnificent birds — even if they can bite your finger off. I follow the Ravenmaster, Chris Skaife, on Instagram . His book helped me appreciate how much personality the ravens have and how devoted their human caretakers are.

9. It’s Said That Two Young Princes Were Murdered There

A darker legend is the story of the princes who once lived in the Tower. The 12-year-old King Edward V, as yet uncrowned, and his brother Richard were said to have been murdered there by agents of their scheming uncle, the future King Richard III.

It’s a tale as old as time, but every year it seems to lose more credibility. The princes did disappear, and that is of course tragically suspicious, but what happened? No one knows.

10. It Was Once Home To A Variety Of Exotic Animals

As you travel around the Tower, watch for the animal statues depicting lions, baboons, an elephant, and a chained bear. These were just a few of the exotic animals who once called the Tower area home. Starting with a gift of three big cats in 1235, many creatures given to the monarchs ended up in the Tower of London Menagerie.

It was entertaining for people to watch the exotic beasts, including the polar bear who would catch fish in the River Thames. Still, it’s very sad to think of the animals living in such confined captivity. In 1826, many of them were moved to the new London Zoo. That was the beginning of the end for the Tower of London Menagerie.

The main entrance to the Tower of London.

Pajor Pawel / Shutterstock

11. Visitors Can Experience The 700-Year-Old Ceremony Of The Keys

Treasury, prison, zoo, royal residence, army base – the Tower has served many functions over the years. One thing that hasn’t changed much, however, is the 700-year-old Ceremony of the Keys. Far more intimate than London’s other famous ceremony, the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace , this is when the Tower is locked up for the night. They’ve been doing it the same way for centuries, and a small number of visitors get to tag along every evening.

Pro Tip: Tickets, though free, can be difficult to obtain. Follow the instructions on the Tower’s website to apply.

12. A Visit Is Educational As Well As Entertaining

The national grade-school curriculum highlights many of the people and events connected with the Tower. There are downloadable materials available on the Tower’s website to support this learning.

A visit to the Tower of London, however, can be an eye-opening, educational experience for people of all ages. It provides an opportunity to think about architecture and about power; about law and order, force, punishment, and injustice; and about greed and wealth.

The collection of armor for men and horses in the White Tower is unique. It’s almost shocking to see the change in King Henry VIII’s armor as the wearer grew from athletic young man to oversized bully standing beside his young son’s armor. How could Henry, who seemed to have once been decent, have turned into such a tyrant?

While the Tudors aren’t the only monarchs associated with the Tower, many of their stories happened here. Readers of Hilary Mantel, Alison Weir, and Philippa Gregory may feel some familiarity with the spot, even if they haven’t visited before.

The Chapel of Saint John in the Tower of London.

Alexander Sviridov / Shutterstock

13. It Houses A Beautiful Chapel

My favorite place in the Tower complex is the Chapel of Saint John the Evangelist in the White Tower. Elizabeth of York died next door, days after the death of her two-day-old daughter. The sad story is that her grieving husband, King Henry VII, kept a lonely candlelit vigil in this chapel.

I also love the view of Tower Bridge from the wall walk, and the chilling simplicity of Traitors’ Gate. The tiny toy knight on display in the Medieval Palace is innocently charming.

What To Know Before You Go

The Tower is managed by a charity called Historic Royal Palaces . Their website gives lots of visitor information, including accessibility details for a range of needs. While the Tower grounds and buildings are partly accessible to people with wheelchairs, much is not. The website has a downloadable brochure with a map indicating the levels of accessibility of different locations.

Overall, this is a family-friendly site staffed by helpful, knowledgeable people. It can be very busy during the peak season, so if you’re traveling then, try to go as early in the day as possible.

For more to see and do in London, visit this page .

Canadian writer Jill Browne lives in Calgary, Alberta, not far from Banff National Park. She travels regularly to London, England, often solo, and has lots of tips for walking and sightseeing there. Jill blogs about London history on LondonHeritageHotspots as well as on Instagram . She loves to plan family history trips for people, especially when their roots connect them to the British Isles. Her website, Genealogy And Travel is devoted to genealogy travel and family history tourism, no matter where you are. You don't have to fly to get in touch with your ancestry.

An experienced road tripper, Jill has driven across Canada and the U.S. multiple times. She and her geologist husband have explored some of Australia and the North Island of New Zealand by car, and are hoping to go back for more. Jill likes gardens, forests, and anything with plants, really. "Adventure without risking life and limb" is her travel motto, and the byline for her blog, Middle of the Road Less Travelled .

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How To Visit the Tower of London in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, And More

Eddie Saint-Jean Last Updated: October 26, 2023

When in London, you can’t miss the Tower of London. Its fascinating and macabre history as a royal residence, fortress, royal treasury, and prison has many mysterious twists and turns, which will be a lot easier to understand with this visitor’s guide put together by a London expert. Whether you’re going solo or taking our recommended guided tour of the Tower of London, here’s how to visit the Tower of London.

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our guide to London for more planning resources, our best Tower of London tours for a memorable trip, and the top things to do in London .

Visiting the Tower of London: What We’ll Cover

The Tower of London is a large complex with a long and often grisly history dating back to the 11th century. This must-see London attraction has been a fortress, a prison, a palace, an arsenal, a museum, and even a zoo with a bizarre collection of animals.

As such, the site comes with lots of interesting legends and folklore you’re not going to want to miss. In this guide, find out how to visit the Tower of London, from tickets to the best guided tours, what to see, and where to eat nearby. Here’s what we’ll cover:

Opening hours and tickets
How much time to budget for your visit
What to see in the Tower of London
Guided tour options
Facts and history of the Tower of London
Where to eat nearby

Tower of London Opening Hours and Tickets

A raven at the Tower of London with beefeater guards in the background.

Opening Hours:

The Tower of London is open seven days a week but admission times change according to the season. During the summer season (March 1 – October 30) the visiting hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 9 am to 5:30 pm; Mondays and Sundays, 10 am to 5:30 pm. Final entry is at 4.30 pm.

Adult tickets cost £29.90 but conditions such as Peak, Off-peak, or Concessions must also be considered. There are also family deals.

Adult: £29.90 Peak | £28.90 Off-peak.
Child (Aged 5-15): £14.90 Peak | £14.40 Off-peak.
Child (Under 5): Free entry.
Concession: £24.00 Peak | £23.20 Off-peak.
Family Saver 1 (One adult with a maximum of three children): £52.20 Peak | £50.50 Off-peak.
Family Saver 2 (Two adults with a maximum of three children): £82.10 Peak | £79.40 Off-peak.

Address: Tower of London

Not ready to book a tour? See the best Tower of London tours to take and why .

How Long To Spend at the Tower of London

Short Answer: 3 hours

Firstly, it has several ticket offices which help reduce lines. But there are occasions when you could spend 10-15 minutes in the queue. Secondly, there may be more queues inside for attractions that are particularly popular—such as the Crown Jewels—especially during peak hours. However, if you buy your tickets online this can save you both time and money.

A guided tour by an expert takes at least an hour, but more is better. If you do not require a guide for your visit, it will take 3 hours minimum to figure out where to go and what you’re looking at. This will give you time to see everything in the Tower in a comfortable and leisurely way.

What To See in the Tower of London

Exhibition of Armor at the Tower of London

When you’re in the Tower of London’s massive complex, make sure you see these top sights. For a more detailed list with in-depth descriptions and images, check out our article on the top things to see in the Tower of London .

The Crown Jewels
Tower Green
The White Tower & the Line Of Kings
The Bloody Tower
The Medieval Palace
Armoury in Action
The Torture at the Tower Exhibition
The Fusilier’s Museum

Tower of London Tour Options

If you’re planning a trip to the Tower of London, you should certainly consider our guided tours. You don’t want to leave this site underwhelmed because there was so much to see without knowing all the gruesome tales and fascinating history!

We have hand-picked expert guides who can walk you through the tower’s magnificent history and you can learn about the British kings and queens who lived here and were executed here! Also, many enemies of the state and crown were imprisoned here and the history lesson about them will be easier to digest under our expert guidance.

Did you know most executioners were drunks and often missed their target—for better or worse? Would you rather have an axe to your shoulder or neck? Learn more gruesome facts on these Tower of London guided tours .

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London (3 hours)

tour guide and visitor talking at the tower of london

Looking for a guided tour of London’s oldest fortress? Our passionate London guides are ready to take you! This tour starts with a gentle cruise on a River Thames taxi boat where you’ll see London’s iconic skyline and Shakespeare’s Globe Theater from a new perspective.

Then dive deep into history at the Tower of London where your guide makes your trip easy by explaining what you’re seeing in this massive complex. Legends of the ravens, stories of the Beefeaters, a visit to the crown jewels, and much more are included!

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters (2 hours)

men standing with beefeater at the tower of london

Looking for that ultra-exclusive experience at the Tower of London? It doesn’t get much better than this! You get an exclusive, private meeting with a famous Beefeater guard in a room inside the Bloody Tower. These guards know how to entertain you with stories and jokes, and they’re happy to answer your questions too!

After your one-on-one time, the rest of your guided tour of the Tower of London will feel even more enthralling as you hear more tales, truths, and debunked myths about prisoners here at the Tower. Plus, you’ll have a chance to see the collection of the British crown jewels that have no comparison in the world!

Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters (2 hours)

There’s something special about witnessing a time-honored ceremony that’s happened for hundreds of years. This tour gives you exclusive entry to the tower before the crowds as you watch the Beefeaters open the gates. They’ll tell tales and read a royal proclamation at this entertaining event that overshadows how important the tradition actually is.

Then, since you’ve entered before the crowds, you’ll have a chance to explore some of the 18 acres of grounds here as your guide leads you to the most fascinating places at the Tower of London. Step inside a re-created king’s bedroom, see Traitor’s Gate, and enter the Jewel House to see what’s probably the most expensive collection of jewelry and valuables on Earth.

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London (7 hours)

Our top-selling London tour is a must-do when you’re traveling to the heart of the United Kingdom. Your local guides are highly qualified and can share an unreal amount of cool facts and stories about London’s iconic sites and history. Starting at Westminster Abbey, you’ll be amazed at just how much of London you can see on foot and on a Thames river cruise.

Your skip-the-line tickets help you maximize your time, and your guides know where the best spots to see the Changing of the Guard are found. Your final stop at the Tower of London brings London’s more grisly history to life. It’s the perfect place to end your busy day tour of London!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our best Tower of London tours to take and why .

Facts and History of the Tower of London

The Tower of London was built by William the Conqueror around A.D. 1070, a few years after his warriors from Normandy, France conquered Britain.
At first, it consisted of just the White Tower, but Henry III (1216-72) and Edward I (1272-1307) added substantial new structures.
It is one of the few remaining 11th-century European fortress palaces.
The enemies of both the monarchy and state were imprisoned and executed here.
Two English queens, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, were executed here on the orders of Henry VIII who constantly sought to replace his wives and remarry.
England’s kings and queens lived here but also kept their treasures and money here knowing this fortified palace was the safest place in Britain.
The Beefeaters who guard the Tower wear an easily recognisable red uniform. They were once the monarch’s official bodyguards, known as the Yeoman of the Guard or Yeoman Warders. They are known as Beefeaters because the king permitted them to eat as much beef from his table as they could manage.
Such are the high levels of security, the Tower was once regarded as impossible to enter illegally. But in 1381, protestors walked in through the gates during the Peasant Rebellion.

Places To Eat Nearby

The Tower of London has its own restaurant, which is just one minute away if you’re looking for a place to eat with a relevant connection. Here are a few more suggestions for places to eat nearby. For more options, check out our guide to the best restaurants near the Tower of London .

New Armouries Restaurant : ££ | Quick Snack —This is the Tower’s official eatery and both hot and cold refreshments are sold here, including snack options and more substantial meals. Of course, you can have fish and chips but also soups, sandwiches, salads, and sweets.

Cento Alla Torre : £££ | Italian Cuisine —This restaurant is affordable yet has noticeable sophistication. They serve Italian cuisine such as homemade pasta and meat and vegetarian dishes with an artisanal touch.

La Dame De Pic : ££££ | French Cuisine —This is a classy French restaurant run by the world’s number one female Michelin chef Anne-Sophie Pic. It has two Michelin stars and although expensive, it’s a worthy choice after the comparative grandeur of your Tower of London visit.

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Visiting the Tower of London 2024: Everything You Need to Know!

Last updated: April 20, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 6 Comments

If you’re visiting London, we think that a visit to the Tower of London should definitely be high on your list of things to do in the city. This is home to one of the oldest intact buildings in London, and has seen a huge amount of history. We’ve visited multiple times, and always have a great day out here.

There’s a lot to see and do at the Tower of London, from seeing the Crown Jewels to learning the legend of the ravens. In this guide to visiting the Tower of London (officially known as Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London), I’m going to tell you everything you need to know to plan your visit.

This will include everything from saving money on your Tower of London tickets, to what to see and do, and more tips for your visit. I’ll also share some tips for where to stay near the Tower of London. Let’s get started.

An Overview of the Tower of London

Before we get into the details, you might be wondering what the Tower of London is, and why it warrants a visit. Let me answer that question with some quick history.

In 1066 William the Conqueror invaded Britain, bringing an end to centuries of Anglo-Saxon rule. The monarchy that William started shaped much of the England you see today, right up to and including the current monarch.

Of course, invading and conquering a country is one thing. Keeping it under your rule once you’ve done that is another. With this in mind, William the Conqueror, now William the First, set about building castles to keep control of his new lands. In fact, from 1066 through to 1087, he built nearly 700 castles across England and Wales.

With London as his capital city, naturally an impressive castle had to be built here to demonstrate his absolute power. And so it was in 1066 that construction on the Tower of London commenced. Initially the building was a simple timber structure, but a more impressive stone structure was built in the early 1080s. This was built over pre-existing Roman fortifications that were part of Roman city wall.

This was the White Tower, an imposing stone fortress which still survives today as the centrepiece of the Tower of London.

Over the centuries various changes and additions were made to the Tower of London. These included extra fortifications and structures, including thick walls, defensive towers, and buildings for accommodation, holding prisoners and munition storage.

Today, the Tower of London consists of a series of defensive structures, walls and buildings which span an area of 12 acres. First there is the moat, then there is a defensive wall, the outer ward, another defensive wall, the inner ward and finally the innermost ward where you find the White Tower.

The Tower of London has been the location of many key events in British history. Multiple important figures throughout history were executed here, with 112 people executed at the Tower over 400 years. These included some of Henry VIII’s wives, political and religious prisoners, and even German spies during World War II.

Today the Tower of London is primarily a visitor attraction, a role it has played for around 400 years. It also serves some notable functions, including being the home of the Crown Jewels and the regimental headquarters of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site, and also a home for around 40 retired service personnel and their families.

As you can imagine with a building that spans so much history, we’ve only briefly covered the Tower of London in this overview, but hopefully this gives you enough to get an idea as to why to visit!

Where is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is found on the north bank of the River Thames, right next to Tower Bridge. The address is London, EC3N 4AB. It sits right on the edge of the London borough of Tower Hamlets, next to the City of London.

The Tower of London entrance is on the west side of the building, with the ticket and security check lines forming outside the west gate. This area is also where you’ll find the ticket shop, welcome centre and shop.

How to get to the Tower of London

There are multiple options for getting to the Tower of London, including by rail, underground, bus and even boat! Here are the main options you have.

Tube . The nearest tube station to the Tower of London is Tower Hill, which is served by the District and Circle lines. This is around a five minute walk from the Tower of London. Other nearby stations (within 15 minutes walk) include Aldgate, Aldgate East, Tower Gateway, Monument, Bank, London Bridge and Fenchurch Street.
Public bus . Bus services 15, 42, 78, 100 and RV1 all stop near the Tower of London.
Boat. The Thames River Boat service stops at Tower Pier, and offers connections up and down the river. A day pass for the Thames River Boat is included on the London Pass , which also includes Tower of London admission.
Train . The nearest train station for the Tower of London is London Bridge Station, around 15 minutes walk away. Liverpool Street Station is around 20 minutes walk away.
Taxi . You can of course get a taxi to the Tower of London, which prices varying depending on the distance travelled.
Hop on Hop off Bus . All the London sightseeing buses make a stop at the Tower of London. A sightseeing bus tour ticket is also included on the London Pass .
Walking . Depending on where you are traveling from, you might find it easiest to walk to the Tower of London. For example, it’s 20 minutes’ walk from St. Pauls Cathedral and the Shard, 45 minutes from Covent Garden or an hour from Westminster Abbey.

For more tips on travel in London, see our guide to getting around London .

Tower of London Opening Times

The Tower of London normally opens between 9am and 10am, and closes between 4.30pm and 5.30pm. These times vary depending on the time of year. They can also change for school holidays. Normal opening times are as follows:

Summer (1st March – 31st October)

Sunday – Monday: 10am – 5.30pm
Tuesday – Saturday: 9am – 5.30pm

Winter (1st November – 28th February)

Sunday – Monday: 10am – 4.30pm
Tuesday – Saturday: 9am – 4.30pm.

Last admission is usually between 1 hour and ninety minutes before closing, however we would recommend giving yourself at least 2 or three hours for a visit.

Note that opening times can vary, so you will always want to check current opening times here in advance of your visit.

Do You Need a Ticket for the Tower of London?

You definitely need a ticket for the Tower of London. You can either book your tickets online in advance of your visit (recommended), or you can buy tickets from the ticket office which is near the main entrance.

We highly recommend booking tickets in advance. At busier times, there can be queues for the ticket office, so you will lose valuable sightseeing time standing in line.

How Much does it Cost to Visit the Tower of London?

As of April 2024, ticket prices for the Tower of London are as follows:

Adult – £34.80
Child (age 5-15) – £17.40
Concession (age 65+, 16-17, full time student, disabled visitors) – £27.70
Child under 5 years – Free

Pricing can vary, we recommend you check the latest information here .

What Does the Tower of London Ticket Include?

The Tower of London ticket includes:

Entry to the Crown Jewels, the White Tower and the Chapel of St Peter
Entry to the Battlements, the Medieval Palace, the Bloody Tower, the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, the Fusiliers Museum, the Beauchamp Tower, and the Royal Mint Exhibition
A tour of the Tower of London with a Yeoman Warder, or “Beefeater”. These run every hour starting near the main entrance, pre-booking is not required. The first tour is usually at 10am and the final tour is at 2.30pm.

The ticket does not include an audio guide, but an audio guide can be purchased separately for £5 for adults and £4 for children. You can either purchase these with your ticket or on-site. Audio guides can be collected just after you pass through the security check, to the right of the entrance.

Premium Tower of London Experiences

As well as the standard visit to the Tower of London, you can also book special experiences. These usually cost more, but will give you a unique experience. These might include witnessing special ceremonies, or simply getting in before the majority of the crowds. Some examples include:

This early access tour of the Tower of London with a Beefeater which has you visiting prior to general admission
This Tour of the Tower of London includes early access to the Tower and Crown Jewels. You’ll also get to see the opening ceremony, and have a fully guided experience inside the Tower of London. It also includes a hop-on hop-off city cruise tour, which departs right outside the Tower.
One of the most unique experiences at the Tower of London is the Ceremony of the Keys. This is held every night from 9.30pm until 10.05pm, and tickets must be purchased separately. These are very popular, and ca be booked on the official website here . Note that photography is not permitted, and this ticket does not include admission to the Tower of London beyond the Key Ceremony itself.
If you want to see the evening Ceremony of the Keys and also take a quick tour of the Tower, check out this tour . It includes an hour’s tour with a Yeoman Warder as well as the opportunity to watch the Ceremony of the Keys. I have done this tour and I enjoyed it. However you should be aware it is quite a quick tour and you don’t see inside the White Tower or visit the Crown Jewels. So for a more complete experience I would probably recommend this morning tour .

Where to Buy Tower of London Tickets

There are a number of options for buying Tower of London tickets. The main options you have are:

On-site in person at the Tower of London ticket office
On the GetYourGuide website here
Online on the official website here

We definitely recommend checking prices between the official site and third party sites as sometimes there are discounts as well as bundles that may include other attractions you are interested in.

It’s also worth mentioning that the refund policy varies by ticket. Tickets bought on the official site generally cannot generally be refunded, whilst third-party sites may have a different policy.

The Tower of London is also included on a number of London city passes, see that section of the post for more details on that.

Discount Tower of London Tickets

There are a few ways to get discounted Tower of London tickets, or at least, to save on your admission.

If you are travelling as a family, the Family Saver ticket can save you money. This is available on either the official site here or the Tiqets website here . If visiting during peak times with two adults and three children, you can save over £20 compared to buying the normal full price tickets.

Tower Hamlets residents can visit the Tower of London for just £1. These tickets can only be purchased in person on the day, and residents must provide proof of residence in the form of either an Idea Store card or a Tower Hamlets library card, as well as proof of address.

Finally, don’t forget to check out city passes which include the Tower of London. If you are planning on visiting a few attractions in London, these can quickly save you money.

City Passes that Include the Tower of London

One of the best ways to save money on sightseeing in a city in our experience is to use a city pass. These passes usually include entry to a range of attractions for one price. If you are already planning to visit a number of high value attractions in a city like London, then a city pass can usually save you quite a bit of money.

We normally use the London Pass when we’re in London sightseeing, and have used it to visit the Tower of London a number of times. You can read our full review of the London Pass here , and buy one for yourself here . Of course, there are other city passes which include the Tower of London. Here are the main options to consider. Which one is best for you will depend on your sightseeing itinerary.

The London Pass – access to over 80 attractions across London for a specific set of days
The GoCity London Explorer Pass – choose from between 2 and 7 attractions to visit
The London Sightseeing Pass – access to over 55 attractions across London for a specific set of days
The London City Card – access to the Tower of London and the London Eye , as well as an audio guide of London and a hop on hop off boat cruise
The London Big City Saver Pass – includes access to the Tower of London as well as your choice of attractions including the London Eye, Madame Tussauds

We normally use the London Pass as we think it offers the best value, but of course it will depend on what you plan to see.

Tower of London Tickets Sold Out? You still have options to visit the Tower of London!

If you are visiting the Tower of London when they are operating timed entry slots, these do have a maximum number of visitors they can accommodate. As such, tickets can sell out.

If you are looking on one of the online ticket portals, including the official site, then you should also check alternatives just in case. Whilst most of them draw from the same allocation, you might get lucky. We recommend checking the official website here , on the GetYourGuide website here .

If you have no luck, the next option is to book a tour which includes Tower of London entry. Group tour tickets normally have a pre-allocated amount of tickets which are separate from the standard ticket pool. We list tours in our suggested tour options, but some options to consider include:

This Tour of the Tower of London which includes early access to the Tower and Crown Jewels. You’ll also get to see the opening ceremony, and have a fully guided experience inside the Tower of London
This full day tour of London includes many of the highlights of London, and finishes with a guided tour of the Tower of London

Hopefully between these options you’ll be able to visit the Tower of London during your time in the city.

Can you skip the lines at the Tower of London?

There are two main lines at the Tower of London.

The first of these is the ticket line for buying tickets in person on the day. This one is easy to skip by buying your tickets online in advance, which we highly recommend you do. Most tickets or tours which advertise skip the line privileges are referring to this ticket line.

If you are visiting with a London Pass or other city sightseeing pass, you can normally also skip the ticket line and head straight for the entry line. Just read the instructions provided with the pass.

The second line is the entry line which features a security check. All guests have to go through the security check, so this line can’t be skipped. Our advice is to visit the Tower of London as close to opening time as possible so the line isn’t so long.

The only way to ensure faster access is to book one of the early entry tours, which get you in before the main ticket line opens. While you will still have to go through security, it will only be you and the other members of your group doing this, so it will move quickly. Check out this tour and this tour for examples of early access tours.

What to see and do at the Tower of London

There is a lot to see and do at the Tower of London! We recommend visiting the Crown Jewels (located in a section of the Waterloo Barracks) first and then visiting the White Tower as these are generally the two busiest and most popular attractions here. After that, we just recommend visiting the rest of the attractions in the order that makes the most sense for you.

I should also note that due to the historic nature of the Tower of London some exhibit or area is almost always closed at any one time due to renovations, construction, or safety issues. However, it is rarely the most popular areas.

For example on one of our recent visits the Tower’s Mint and the chapel were closed to visitors, and on another the Beauchamp Tower and a section of the battlements was closed. So if there is any specific exhibit or areas you really want to visit, you may want to call ahead to ensure it is open.

Here’s an overview of the main sights and attractions within the walls.

The Tower’s Mint

When you enter the Tower of London you’ll pass through the Middle Gate, go across the moat, and then pass through the outer wall via the Byward Tower. You’ll now be in the outer ward, which sits between the two main sets of walls.

If you head to your left, up Mint Street, you will come to The Tower Mint. This street is also home to the “casemates”, a series of homes built into the walls where many of the Yeoman warders live.

The Tower Mint is open for visiting. It was established here in 1279, and for 500 years, most of the coins in circulation in the country were produced here. A visit to the mint will teach you all about this process, as well as about the people who lived and worked here. There are also some fun interactive games you can play.

The Battlements

The inner curtain wall of the Tower of London separates the outer ward from the inner ward. This was built during the reign of Henry the III in the 13th century, and much of what you see today is original from this period.

It consists of 13 towers (Bell, Beauchamp, Devereux, Flint, Bowyer, Brick, Martin, Constable, Broad Arrow, Salt, Lanthorn, Wakefield, and the Bloody Tower) which are linked by walls, and the whole construction is generally referred to today as the Battlements.

When built, this primarily served a defensive function. Today, you can walk along the majority of the battlements by taking the wall walk. This takes you through a number of the towers, with many of them setup to show mini exhibitions. In these, you’ll learn all sorts of things about the Tower’s history, from the time the walls were breached during the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, the Tower’s time as a zoo (the Royal Menagerie), and what happened at the Tower during the World Wars.

One of the more intriguing exhibits for us was about the great fire here that took place in 1841 when Duke of Wellington was the Tower Constable. Another was a room devoted to the history of the animals that were kept at the Tower of London here which included lions, baboons, bears, alligators, zebras, and elephants. You’ll also see sculptures representing some of the animals that were kept here throughout the site.

The wall walk also take you through the next entry in our guide, the Medieval Palace.

The Medieval Palace

The wall walk along the Battlements starts with you entering St. Thomas’s Tower. This is part of the outer defences of the castle, added by Edward I in the late 13th century. As well as an additional defensive wall wrapping around the outside of the original curtain wall, this features a number of defensive emplacements as well as a large tower.

This tower, St. Thomas’s Tower, was built to serve two purposes. First, it had a river-level water gate entrance, offering direct access to the Thames. This came to be known as Traitors’ Gate, as this was where many Tudor-era prisoners would arrive prior to incarceration, often followed by torture and/or execution.

The upper floor of St. Thomas’s Tower was designed to provide luxurious lodging for the Royal family when they stayed at the Tower. Today, St. Thomas’s Tower along with the next two towers you pass through on the wall walk, The Wakefield Tower and the Lanthorn Tower, are collectively known as the Medieval Palace.

These towers are today set up to demonstrate what the interior would have been like for the visiting Royalty, with objects and furniture dating from the period.

The Crown Jewels in the Waterloo Barracks

A highlight for many visitors to the Tower of London is a visit to see the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom. This is a collection of royal ceremonial objects, which include the crown worn by the British monarch. It’s the most complete collection of Royal regalia in the world, and the only set still in active use today.

The Tower of London has traditionally been home to the Crown Jewels since the early 13th century. The Jewels on display and in use today primarily date from 1660 when Charles II ascended the throne and restablished the monarchy following the English Civil War.

A highlight of the collection is the Cullinan I diamond, which is the largest clear cut diamond in the world at 530 carats. There are however over 23,000 precious stones in the display, which consists of 142 objects, including plates, swords, sceptres, robes, rings and even a spoon.

My favourite object is the nautical themed silver-gilt Grand Punch Bowl, which can hold 144 bottles of wine, and which is still in regular use!

A visit to the Crown Jewels is a must when visiting the Tower of London. It’s one of the most popular attractions, and one of the only places where photography isn’t allowed. At busier times, there can be quite a queue to visit, so do plan accordingly.

The White Tower

Right at the heart of the Tower of London is the White Tower, the oldest part of the Tower of London and one of the oldest buildings in London.

The building is a keep, which in medieval times was a central fortified tower that normally had the most protection of any building in a castle. It was built in stone in the late 11th century, and fulfilled the role of fortress, royal accommodation, prison and symbol of power. Over the years it’s use evolved, including during the 17th century when the whole tower was used, rather riskily, to store a vast quantity of gunpowder.

Since the 19th century, the White Tower has primarily been a visitor attraction, and a visit to this incredible 11th century medieval palace is a must when inside the Tower of London. Here you will see a number of exhibits including the Line of Kings, which has been on display at the Tower of London since around 1692! Today this historic exhibition is found on the entrance floor of the White Tower.

You’ll also find other interesting armor and weaponry on display, as well as a beautiful 11th century Romanesque chapel, the Chapel of St. John the Evangelist. Note that whilst photography is allowed almost everywhere in the White Tower, it is not permitted in the chapel.

There are also exhibits about the lesser known uses of the Tower of London here including as a jewel, house, records office, Board of Ordnance headquarters, royal mint, menagerie, and royal observatory.

The Bloody Tower

Originally known as the Garden Tower, the Bloody Tower is one of the towers making up the battlements. It gained its rather gruesome name in the 16th century. Two young princes, one of whom was the deposed King and the other was his brother and therefore next in line, were effectively imprisoned in the tower by their uncle the Duke of Gloucester, the future Richard III.

Following their imprisonment and subsequent mysterious disappearance, rumours abounded of their being murdered, and so the Bloody Tower got its name. In 1674, the bones of two children of similar ages were found beneath the staircase in the White Tower at the Tower of London.

Today, you can learn about the Princes and what may have happened to them with a visit to the Bloody Tower. You’ll also learn about other high profile prisoners who stayed here, including Sir Walter Raleigh, who was imprisoned here for 13 years.

Lower Wakefield Tower

Next to the Bloody Tower is the Wakefield Tower, another of the towers along the inner curtain wall. In the lower part of this tower is the Torture at the Tower exhibit.

Over the centuries, and particularly in the 16th and 17th century, there was much political and religious change in the country. These changes resulted in many prisoners being held at the Tower. Often, it was suspected that they held information on co-conspirators, or where perhaps not forthcoming enough with a confession.

Interrogators at the Tower used a range of rather awful devices to extract information from their prisoners, and you can learn all about these at the Torture at the Tower exhibit.

The Fusilier Museum

Formed in June 1685, The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers were originally formed to guard the guns at the Tower of London. Since then, the regiment has seen service in conflicts around the Globe, from the American War of Independence through to the Napoleonic Wars and the Great Wars of the 20th century.

They still have their regimental headquarters inside the walls of the Tower of London, where on the ground floor you can visit the Fusilier Museum . This museum tells the story of the regiment from its formation right up to the present day via a series of objects and information panels, and is well worth the visit.

Tower Green & Scaffold Site

To the west of the White Tower, near the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula you’ll find an expanse of grass as well as a memorial.

This area, known as Tower Green, was the site of some of the most high profile executions in British history. Only those of high rank had the privilege of being executed here. Ten people were beheaded on the green, including two of Henry VIII’s wives, Queens Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard.

Today there is a memorial sculpture to those who lives were taken on the green.

Tower Green & Scaffold Site memorial Tower of London

Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula

Just to the north of Tower Green is the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula. “Ad Vincula” is Latin for “in chains”, so this is the Chapel of St. Peter in chains. The chapel is the parish church of the Tower of London, and whilst there has been a chapel on site for many centuries, the current building dates from 1520 and the reign of Henry VIII.

The chapel is perhaps most well known as the final resting place for many of the high profile prisoners who were executed at the Tower. These include Queen Anne Boleyn, Queen Catherine Howard, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Thomas More. There were many other people interred here, including a number of martyrs who went on to become Saints.

The Chapel Royal is open for visitors and also has prayer services. It’s one of the few places in the Tower of London where photography isn’t allowed.

Beauchamp Tower

Another of the towers in the battlements, although not part of the wall walk, is the Beauchamp Tower. This 13th century tower was used as a prison for most of its history. It takes its name from Thomas Beauchamp, who was imprisoned here at the end of the 14th century.

Being imprisoned at the Tower was, for most prisoners, a very challenging experience. Many had already been condemned to death, and were passing time in fairly grim conditions. Not every prisoner had their own apartments, like Sir Walter Raleigh!

To pass the time and alleviate boredom, many prisoners took to carving graffiti into the walls of the castle. This is still visible today, and coming to see this graffiti has in fact long been a popular pastime amongst visitors to the Tower.

The Beauchamp Tower has a number of intricate carvings in the walls, along with more standard names and dates. These can all be visited and seen as part of the Imprisonment at the Tower Exhibition, found within the Beauchamp Tower.

One of the most well known sights at the Tower of London are the Tower Ravens. These large black birds have been a common sight at the Tower of London for centuries. The history of the Ravens at the Tower is one of myth and legends, so it’s hard to know exactly what is fact and what is not.

One story goes that the ravens were first encouraged to take up residence at the Tower to enhance the atmosphere at the executions on Tower Hill. Large black birds flapping ominously overhead would certainly lend a certain something to any execution. This association with ravens at the Tower is then said to have led to a captive population being permanently installed by Charles II in the 17th century.

Other scholars disagree, and surmise that this is all a myth put about by romantic Victorians. Certainly, the first known reference of captive Tower Ravens is in an illustration of 1863.

Whichever version of events you choose to believe, the reality is that these days there are always at least six captive ravens who are resident at the Tower, and who are looked after by the Yeoman Warders. The legend goes that should the ravens leave the Tower of London, the Crown will fall, and Britain with it.

Rather than testing this theory, the ravens are kept and fed at the Tower, and you’ll no doubt encounter them on your visit. They are often to be found hopping around after the Yeoman Warders, because they are clever birds who know where their food comes from.

The Yeoman Warders & Guided Tours

An iconic sight at the Tower of London are the Yeoman Warders, commonly known as Beefeaters. These men and women (to date there has only been one woman warder) have the full title Yeomen Warders of Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, and Members of the Sovereign’s Body Guard of the Yeoman Guard Extraordinary.

The Yeoman Warders are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London, with the responsibility of looking after the prisoners in the Tower as well as safeguarding the Crown Jewels. They are also the de facto guides at the Tower, and have been helping tourists find their way around the sight and sharing their knowledge since the 19th century.

Yeoman Warders are commonly known as Beefeaters, a term whose origin is shrouded in mystery, but likely has something to do with the quantities of beef that formed a part of their diet. They were formed in 1485, and are the oldest military corp still in existence.

Yeoman Warders are today all former members of the armed services with a minimum of 22 years service. They live within the grounds of the Tower of London with their families, and they lead free guided tours within the Tower. We highly recommend spending a bit of time chatting to a Warder, as they have some wonderful stories and knowledge to share.

They run free guided tours throughout the day which are included with your tickets, and these are well worth joining. The talks cover different topics, and you can find out more when you visit about what’s on that day.

As well as the Yeoman Warders, the Tower of London also has a number of Guards on duty. These are active serving military personnel, responsible for guarding the Jewel House and the Queen’s House.

They are recognisable from their red uniforms and their large furry bearskin caps. As well as their guard role, they also take part in three daily ceremonies at the Tower of London: the Ceremonial Opening, the Ceremony of the Word, and the Ceremony of the Keys.

Whilst photography of the Guards is permitted, you should be aware that these are active military personnel performing an important task. When they are marching or otherwise moving around the site, it is important to stand clear and let them get on with their duties.

Unlike the Yeoman Warders, the Guards are not there to provide visitors with assistance and as such they won’t answer questions. So please be respectful and direct any questions you have to the Yeoman Warders, rather than the Guards.

How Long to Visit the Tower of London For?

As you can see, there is a lot to see and do at the Tower of London. We recommend a minimum of two hours for your visit if you just want to see the highlights, but ideally we’d recommend planning to spend around three hours here. At busier times, attractions like the Crown Jewels can involve a queue time of up to an hour, so you will need to consider this as well.

But you can easily spend most of a day here as there is so much to do and see if you visit all the available attractions. In addition to visiting all the various parts of the Tower and attractions, there are also guided tours you can join (most are free with your ticket) as well as the restaurant, café, and gift shops.

Those visiting with children may want to make sure to take some time between visiting buildings and museums to eat and let the kids enjoy the green spaces.

Is the Tower of London Worth It?

Hopefully having read this guide so far, and seeing all that there is to see and do at the Tower of London, you will agree that the Tower of London is definitely worth it.

Whilst the entry price is relatively high, it is on par with other major attractions in London like the London Eye . You could also spend a full day just at the Tower of London if you wanted to as there is plenty to see and do.

We feel it offers great value for what you can see, which includes many things you just can’t see anywhere else like the Crown Jewels.

Practicalities for Visiting the Tower of London

Like any major tourist attraction, there are a few things to be aware of when visiting the Tower of London.

Facilities at the Tower of London

There are a number of toilets at the Tower of London, some of which offer accessible facilities and some of which offer baby changing facilities.

Buggies and push chairs are allowed at the Tower of London, but due to the ancient cobbled ground many parts of the Tower are not exactly pushchair friendly. There is a buggy park outside the White Tower.

There are first aid services at the Tower of London. If you are visiting with children, there is not a meeting point, but children should be instructed to talk with a Yeoman Warder if they need help.

Security at the Tower of London

Like most locations these days, there are security checks when visiting the Tower of London. If you have any kind of small backpack or bag, it will be searched on entry, and the Tower reserves the right to search visitors on entry as well. Large luggage is not permitted in the Tower.

There are a number of prohibited articles which seem fairly obvious to me. Weapons, including knives with a blade in excess of 3 inches are forbidden, as are fireworks, smoke bombs and pepper spray.

Accessibility at the Tower of London

The Tower of London strives to be an accessible venue, with a number of measures in place to make all visitors welcome. However, there are some limitations, as this is a very old building complex with cobbled areas, steep narrow staircases, and low doorways.

There is a full guide to accessibility at the Tower of London, with detailed information on each area of the Tower and accessibility features. You can download this here .

All visitors with disabilities are welcome to bring a carer free of charge. Tickets for carers can be obtained on the day, with presentation of proof of a registered disability.

Luggage storage Near the Tower of London

Whilst small daypacks are allowed, larger luggage and suitcases are not permitted at the Tower of London. There is also no on-site luggage storage. We suggest checking online luggage storage options here and here .

Photography at the Tower of London

As you can see from this guide, I’ve taken a lot of photos at the Tower of London. So I’m pleased to report that photography is allowed almost everywhere within the Tower. The main exceptions to this rule are:

the Crown Jewels exhibit and the entire inside of the Jewel House
the Martin Tower
the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula.
the Chapel of St. John in the White Tower

No photography or filming is allowed in these parts of the Tower.

You are also permitted to photograph the Guard and the Yeoman Warders. For the latter, it is always polite to ask permission. For the former, they don’t speak to people usually, but they do expect to have their photos taken. Just be respectful!

If you plan to do any commercial photography or wedding photography, or use photographic equipment such as tripods and selfie sticks, this needs to be arranged in advance. There are also rules in place to safeguard children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Food and Drink at the Tower of London

If you get hungry whilst you are at the Tower of London, you have a few options.

First, you are allowed to bring your own food and drink to the Tower of London. However, do be aware that you are only allowed to consume it in designated areas.

There are also a number of options for eating and drinking at the Tower of London. The largest sit down option is the New Armouries Café. This includes a range of full size hot and cold meals, as well as drinks, snacks, sandwiches, cakes and pastries. This is the best option for a sit down meal.

There are also a number of food and drink kiosks, including an ice cream stand, at various locations around the Tower of London. So you won’t go hungry.

Internet Access at the Tower of London

There is full free WiFi access at the Tower of London. Just connect to the free WiFi network.

Tours of the Tower of London

You can book a tour which includes the Tower of London. Some of these focus on the Tower itself, whilst others will include other sights and experiences across the city.

One thing to note is that the only external guides who are allowed to guide inside the Tower of London are Accredited Guides or Blue Badge guides.

Some tours you’ll find online will say that they include the Tower of London. However, if the tour is not operated by an accredited blue badge guide, the guide will not actually accompany you inside the Tower of London. So you would have to guide yourself for this part of the tour, or join one of the free tours after you enter with a Yeoman Warder.

Here are some options to consider.

This Tour of the Tower of London includes early access to the Tower and Crown Jewels. You’ll also get to see the opening ceremony, and have a fully guided experience inside the Tower of London
This full day tour of London includes many of the highlights of London, and finishes with a fully guided tour of the Tower of London
If you’d like a private tour, this tour with a blue badge guide focuses on the Tower of London, and the guide will accompany you inside throughout the experience
If you want to see the evening Ceremony of the Keys and also take a quick tour of the Tower, check out this tour . It includes an hour’s tour with a Yeoman Warder as well as the opportunity to watch the Ceremony of the Keys. I have done this tour and the experience is definitely interesting, however it is quite a quick tour and you don’t see inside the White Tower or the Crown Jewels. So for a more complete experience I would probably recommend this morning tour .

Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

To help you get the most out of your Tower of London visit, we’ve put together these tips based on our multiple visits.

Consider a Guided Tour or Audio guide

As you have probably noticed, there’s a lot to see at the Tower of London, and the building itself has been witness to around a thousand years of history. As such, it can be a bit overwhelming!

For this reason, we usually recommend that visitors consider either taking a guided tour or using the on-site audio guide to enhance their visit. For guided tours, the Yeoman warder led tours which are included in your entry ticket are a great option. Alternatively, see our section on recommended tours for other ideas.

Chat with the Yeoman Warders

Whether or not you opt to take one of the free guided tours, we definitely recommend taking some time to talk with the Yeoman Warders. They’re easily recognisable from their uniforms, and they have a wealth of knowledge about the Tower of London.

So whether you have a question about what it’s like to actually live at the Tower of London, or want to know something about its history, these are the people to talk to!

What to Bring

You’ll be spending a few hours at the Tower of London, so we would recommend bringing comfortable clothes and walking shoes, as well as a refillable water bottle. We also recommend either an umbrella or lightweight rainproof coat, whatever time of year you visit. There are quite a few outdoor areas, and the weather in London can be unpredictable even in the summer time!

For more ideas on packing, see our guide to what to pack for London .

Plan your day in advance

There is a lot to see at the Tower of London, so having a general idea of the layout and what order you intend to visit things is a good idea. If you are not sure if you have the time to visit everything (there is a lot to see), you will want to prioritize the areas you really want to see by visiting them first.

Planning ahead can save you retracing your steps and walking further than you need to. As mentioned previously, the site spans 12 acres with two concentric walls surrounding the centre, and attractions found throughout.

The site is well signposted, and you’ll get a free map when you visit. You can also download this in digital form in advance of your visit from the official website here . If you need directions when you’re on site, just ask a Yeoman Warder.

We highly recommend planning to arrive as close to opening as you can, and to head straight for the Crown Jewels exhibition. This tends to be the busiest attraction on the site, and queues can be up to an hour long during peak visiting times. So if you can get this done first then you’ll be able to have a more relaxing time overall.

Attractions Near the Tower of London

The Tower of London is very close to a number of other London attractions. These include:

Tower Bridge (6 minute walk)
HMS Belfast (10 minute walk)
The Shard (20 minute walk)
Borough Market (20 minute walk)
St. Paul’s Cathedral (20 minute walk)
Shakespeare’s Globe (20 minute walk)

As you can see, it would be easy to incorporate a trip to the Tower of London with other sightseeing. See our suggested itineraries for 1 day in London , 2 days in London , 3 days in London and 6 days in London for some ideas.

Where to Stay Near the Tower of London

If you want to stay near the Tower of London, we’ve put together some options for you. It’s worth bearing in mind that The Tower of London is right next to the city of London, so this area is largely dominated by office buildings rather than hotels, however there are some options to choose from. We suggest the following.

Wombats Hostel – just 13 minutes walk from the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, this well reviewed hostel offers basic shared accommodation. There’s also a bar and shared kitchen facilities on site.
Clayton Hotel – well located for the city’s financial district and just 15 minutes walk from the Tower of London, this is a very well rated 4* hotel offering comfortably sized en-suite stylish rooms. There’s free WiFi throughout and an on-site restaurant and bar.
New Road Hotel – this excellent value and well reviewed boutique 4* hotel in Whitechapel is found in a former textile factory. It’s 25 minutes walk to the Tower of London. A wide range of rooms are available, from more budget oriented options through to higher end options with hot tubs and terraces. Rooms are all en-suite and air-conditioned, and there’s also an on-site bar and restaurant.
Shangri-La Hotel at the Shard – found between floors 34 and 52 of the Shard, rooms at the well reviewed 5* Shangri-La offer some of the most spectacular views of the city you’ll find in any hotel in London. Good sized rooms feature marble en-suite bathrooms with shower and separate bath tub. Rooms also feature air-conditioning, coffee machines and free WiFi, as well as a set of binoculars to enjoy the view! There are three dining and drinking menus on site, and it’s a 20 minute walk to the Tower of London

Of course, there are many more options for accommodation all across London. See our guide to where to stay in London for some more options and tips on which London neighborhoods might be the best place to stay depending on what you plan to visit.

There are 6 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

Anne Clough says

8th July 2023 at 3:29 pm

Are there water fountains on site to be able to fill my bottles?

Laurence Norah says

8th July 2023 at 3:51 pm

Yes there are. I can also recommend getting a copy of the “Refill” app for your smartphone which has a map of all the water fountains as well as cafes and bars which offer free refills of water bottles 🙂

Have a great time in London!

Nichelle says

6th January 2023 at 6:48 pm

We will bein London April 2 and April 3rd, when can we purchase tickets for the Tower of London?

The website does not show any tickets available to purchase yet.

14th January 2023 at 10:22 am

Hi Nichelle,

Sorry about the slow response! I’m travelling with limited internet at the moment. You are correct, currently tickets beyond the 1st of March are not available. I contacted the Tower of London about this, and they were not able to give me an updated timeframe for when these tickets will go on sale, only to say that you should keep checking the website. Sorry to not be of more help! Have a great trip to London!

29th December 2021 at 11:18 pm

great site! do you know if beefeaters will be available in May 2022?

30th December 2021 at 10:12 am

Thanks Susan! Yes, the Beefeaters should be leading their tours in May and also be there for any photos or questions you have. They live on site so they are pretty much always there 🙂

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16 insider tips for visiting the tower of london.

The Tower of London has been a fixture on London’s landscape for over a thousand years. With its rich – and often gory – history, it is a must-see attraction for Londoners and visitors alike.

But how can you make the most of your Tower of London visit?

This is where I can help you. Drawing on first-hand experiences and the knowledge of my friend Lisa who is a volunteer at the Tower, I am sharing top insider tips for visiting the Tower of London.

It is also packed with practical information you will need to ensure an unforgettable visit to one of London’s most iconic landmarks , including how to buy tickets.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

The Tower of London’s long and colourful history begins with William the Conqueror (r 1066 – 87), who built the White Tower

Although it was built as a fortress and a royal palace – it is one of the greatest European palaces – the Tower of London had several other roles. It was the site of a royal menagerie, the Royal Mint and armouries, and was used to store records of government.

However, the Tower gained infamy as a prison . Between 1100 and 1952, 8,000 people were incarcerated within its walls for crimes ranging from treason and conspiracy to murder and sorcery.

It was from here that Anne Boleyn was led to her grisly fate. Guy Fawkes was taken to the Tower of London after he was caught red-handed with the 36 barrels of gunpowder intended to reduce the House of Lords to rubble.

Today, the Tower of London is home to the Crown Jewels and the world-famous Yeoman Warders, also known as ‘Beefeaters.’

model of monkey in front of grand turreted building of tower of london

Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

1. buy your ticket in advance.

Don’t be a hostage to fortune.

Pre-pandemic, the Tower of London attracted close to 3 million annual visitors. Visitor numbers are rapidly recovering.

The Tower of London carefully manages visitor numbers and ticket availability is limited at busier times. Pre-book your ticket in advance to guarantee entry.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKET FOR THE TOWER OF LONDON

2. Get there early to avoid the crowds

Looking for the best way to visit the Tower of London? Get a head start on the tour groups and the gaggles of schoolchildren looking like mini construction workers in their hi-vis jackets.

Aim to arrive at the Tower of London as they open their gates to visitors. This will give you precious time before it fills up and will secure your place in line for the Crown Jewels.

3. Consider booking an early access tour

You can also visit the Tower before the official opening time by booking an early-access tour with a Beefeater. Perfect if you want to experience the magic of the Tower of London with far fewer people.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR EARLY ACCESS TOUR

Alternatively, why not join a before-hours Tower of London tour with the opening ceremony? It’s slightly more expensive but it does allow you to see an age-old ritual.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR EARLY ACCESS TOUR + OPENING CEREMONY

4. Pick up a free map at the entrance

This clear and super useful map is colour-coded according to the Tower’s main functions over the last millennium: fortress, palace and prison

5. Consider an audio guide

There is a lot to see at the Tower of London and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. One way of making it easier on yourself is to pick up an audio guide.

As well as revealing the stories and secrets of the Tower of London, the guide also has useful information about what to see, where to eat and shop and how to plan your day.

6. Avoid visiting at the weekend

Inevitably, the Tower of London is busier at the weekend with locals making the most of their days off and those visiting London on a city break. If possible, visit the Tower of London on a weekday.

cobbled lane seen through arch at tower of london

7. Don’t underestimate the time it will take to visit the Tower of London

This is one of my top Tower of London tips. Don’t be tempted to just give the site a cursory tick on your checklist of things to do in London .

The Tower of London is a big site with many historical buildings to explore, each with its own stories to tell. You also have to factor in queueing to see the Crown Jewels.

How long you spend at the Tower of London will depend on how busy it is, which determines access to the Crown Jewels, and how much of a history fan-girl or fan-boy you are.

On my last two visits, I spent half a day there. For me, this was the perfect length of time.

8. Make the Crown Jewels your first stop

With good reason, the Crown Jewels display is one of the most popular things to do at the Tower of London. This world-famous collection of gold and gem-encrusted ceremonial items worn by British kings and queens attracts visitors in their droves.

exterior of jewel house at tower of london with soldier on guard

The queues to see the Crown Jewels can be epic. According to one of the Yeoman Warders, people have been known to wait in line for up to 90 minutes to see this sparkling collection.

Ignore everything else when you enter the Tower of London. Instead, follow the signs for the Crown Jewels, which are displayed in the Jewel House, located behind the White Tower.

For security reasons, photography is not allowed in the exhibit.

9. Join a Yeoman Warder tour

One of the best ways to see the Tower of London is to join a tour led by a Yeoman Warder. Educational and entertaining in equal measure, tales of pain and passion, treachery and torture are delivered with style.

yeoman warder dressed in a black and red uniform

These 45-minute walking tours start from the moat at the Tower’s entrance and are included in the price of your admission ticket. The times of the tours are posted on a board at the entrance.

10. Check the opening times of the Tower’s parish church

The Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula is a must-see sight at the Tower of London.

A site of worship since before the Tower was built, it became the final resting place for many of the Tower’s executed prisoners under Henry VIII. These include Thomas More, Thomas Cromwell, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard.

However, as the church is a popular venue for private events, opening hours can be unpredictable. Services are held there each Sunday and it’s not unusual for it to be used for weddings and christenings on Saturdays.

Aim to visit the Chapel Royal in the morning. Better still, check with a Yeoman Warder or volunteer at the start of your visit.

11. Make friends with the Yeoman Warders and volunteers

The Yeoman Warders and volunteers are rich wells of information. Don’t be shy. Approach them if you have questions.

And the Beefeaters are well practised in posing for photographs.

12. Try to see the Changing of the Guards

Did you know that Buckingham Palace isn’t the only place in London where you can witness the Changing of the Guard?

The Tower of London is protected by 22 guards, provided by different units on rotation. The sentries are changed every two hours and you can check times with one of the Yeoman Warders or a volunteer.

At 3 pm, a ceremony called The Word takes place. The Officer of The Guard and escort march to the Byward Tower to collect the Word, which is the password for after-hours entry to the Tower of London.

soldier in furry hat guarding a building

13. Walk along the battlements

A visit to the Tower of London isn’t complete without a walk along its battlements. This is an excellent way to discover the Tower’s different functions as a palace, fortress and prison.

iron sculpture of a guard on a battlement at tower of london

Starting at the Salt Tower, explore the nine towers of Henry VII’s massive wall that was used to defend the fortress from attack. Some of these towers were once used as prison cells and you still see prisoner graffiti carved into the walls.

14. Watch out for those ravens

After the Beefeaters and Crown Jewels, the Tower of London’s most famous occupants are its ravens. Legend has it that the kingdom and the tower will fall if the six resident ravens ever leave the fortress (in fact there is one spare, just in case).

Although they are well fed by the Ravenmaster, the ravens are partial to sandwiches and crisps. My volunteer friend tells me that she spends a good chunk of her time shooing them away from visitors’ picnics.

15. Try to get tickets for the Ceremony of the Keys

‘Halt! Who comes there?’

These words have echoed down Water Lane for over 700 years. They are part of the ancient Ceremony of the Keys, during which the outer gates of the Tower of London are locked for the night and the keys passed to the Resident Governor.

I was lucky to attend this ceremony five years ago. The historical verve was almost tangible and I felt privileged to be in the deserted lanes of the Tower of London at night.

16. Consider timing your visit with the lifting of Tower Bridge

tower bridge seen through a leaded window at the tower of london

Tower Bridge is visible from the Tower of London. Unlike the other bridges across the Thames , Tower Bridge is a drawbridge, meaning that the middle section of the bridge can be raised to allow river traffic to pass through.

Tower Bridge lifts around 880 times a year and you can check the schedule here .

What to See at the Tower of London

crown sceptre and orb part of the crown jewls which is a highlight of visiting the tower of london

Crown Jewels

Known collectively as the Coronation Regalia, these are the fabulous gold and gem-encrusted pieces used at the coronation of a sovereign.

These items in the Jewel House include trumpets and ceremonial maces, swords of state and coronation robes. The most famous are the crowns, some of which are in use at state events today.

White Tower

Completed in 1100 AD, the imposing White Tower is one of the best preserved secular buildings from early medieval times. It is the oldest part of the Tower of London.

pathway of battlement leading to an old tower

The Battlements

The impressive stone battlements that form the Tower’s walls have protected kings and queens since the mid-13th century.

Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula

Dating from the reign of Henry VIII, the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula is the final resting place of two of his wives – Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard – as well as Sir Thomas More, John Fisher and Thomas Cromwell.

Traitors’ Gate

Those accused of treason entered the Tower through this notorious 13th-century watergate. They included Anne Boleyn and Sir Thomas Moore.

soldier on guard outside tudor buildings

Tower Green

Several British nobles were beheaded in this pretty space, away from the curious eyes of spectators. Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard and Lady Jane Grey were among those that were executed here.

Where is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is located on the north bank of the River Thames on the eastern border of the City of London. Its address is London, EC3N 4AB. An area map is here .

It covers a vast area but you’ll find the entrance and ticket office on the western side of the complex.

How to Get to the Tower of London

It’s easy to get to The Tower of London by London Underground (Tube), Dockland Light Railway (DLR), mainline stations, bus or boat.

The closest Tube station is Tower Hill, a 5-minute walk. District and Circle Line trains stop here.

Other London Underground or DLR stations that are within a 15-minute walk are Aldgate, Aldgate East, Tower Gateway, Monument, Bank, London Bridge and Fenchurch Street.

By mainline train

The Tower is located within walking distance of the following mainline stations:

London Bridge Station (10 -15 minutes)
Liverpool Street Station (20 minutes)
London Charing Cross Station (25 minutes)

By public bus

London bus routes 15, 42, 78, 100 and RV1 stop close to the Tower of London.

By hop-on-hop-off bus

All of the major London hop-on-hop-off (HOHO) buses include the Tower on their routes.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR LONDON HOHO BUS TICKET

A very special way to arrive at the Tower of London is by boat. A river pass allows you to hop on and hop off for 24 hours at any of London’s main destination piers, including Westminster, Greenwich, London Eye and the Tower.

This is something that I have done as a local and is a wonderful way to explore London’s main attractions.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR LONDON HOHO CRUISE TICKET

The Thames River Boat is included in the London Pass and London Explorer Pass .

A black cab or minicab will get you to the Tower of London in comfort. Uber and Bolt operate in London.

If you are looking for a black cab after visiting the Tower of London, there are usually some waiting for a fare outside Starbucks, close to the Tower’s entrance. Turn right out of the exit close to Traitors Gate, which brings you out onto the riverbank.

Don’t rule out walking to the Tower of London. It may be closer than you think.

For example; it’s a scenic and easy 20-minute stroll from The Shard on the opposite side of the river. St.Paul’s Cathedral is a similar distance to the west.

Tower of London Opening Times

The Tower of London opens between 9 am and 10 am and closes between 4.30 pm and 5.30 pm, depedning on the season. The last admission is one hour before closing time.

Opening hours are seasonal and are subject to change, especially during the school holidays. It is closed from 24th until 26th December.

Check opening hours here .

bronze sculpture of creature with long mane holding a book

Buying Tower of London Tickets

How much does it cost to visit the tower of london in 2024.

As of December 2023, it costs an adult £33.60 to visit the Tower of London and you can stay for as long as you like after your allocated arrival time. The following ticket types are also available: – Child (age 5-15) – £16.80 – Concession (age 65+ or 16-17, full-time student, disabled visitor) – £26.80 Children under the age of five go free.

Consider buying a membership for Historic Royal Palaces. For £65 for an individual membership, you get free and unlimited entry to these five historic royal palaces, including exhibitions:

Tower of London
Hampton Court Palace
Kensington Palace
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Except for Hillsborough, all of these palaces are in or near London. Additionally, you get a 10% discount on admission to the wonderful Kew Gardens.

With just two visits, you will make your money back on your membership. If there are two of you and you buy a joint membership, the savings are deeper still.

I bought an annual membership in 2021 and did not regret it in the slightest, revisiting the Tower of London (twice), Hampton Court, Kensington Palace and Kew Gardens.

man and woman posing behind cut outs of soldiers in armour

What does your Tower of London Ticket include?

Your Tower of London ticket includes entry to the following:

The Crown Jewels
The White Tower
Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula
Battlements
Medieval Palace
Bloody Tower
Torture at the Tower Exhibition
Fusiliers Museum
Royal Mint exhibition

That’s a lot of bang for your buck. The tour of the Tower of London with a Beefeater is also thrown in for good measure.

An audio guide is not included with your Tower of London ticket. This can be purchased separately, either with your ticket or on arrival. You can collect your audio guide from the Acoustiguide desk in the Water Lane shop, just inside the main entrance.

Where to Buy Tickets for the Tower of London

Here are your main options for buying tickets for the Tower of London:

In person at the ticket office at the Tower of London
From the Historic Royal Palace’s website here
From the GetYourGuide website here

It can pay to compare both the price of tickets and the refund policies of the official website and GetYourGuide. For example; with GetYourGuide you usually get the benefit of free cancellation within 24 hours of your scheduled visit.

Can you buy tickets for the Tower of London on the day?

Yes. Subject to availability, you can buy your ticket on the day, but I don’t recommend leaving it to chance.

How to save money on Tower of London tickets

Lucky you if you are a Tower Hamlets resident . Thanks to an agreement between the Tower of London and this London borough, you can visit the Tower of London for only £1. More information is here .

For most people, a London City Pass is a good way to save money on admission to the Tower of London. Entry to the Tower of London is included in both the London Pass and the London Explorer Pass . To determine if these sightseeing passes will be good value for you, check my review of the London Explorer Pass or this lowdown on the London Pass .

Are skip-the-line tickets available for the Tower of London?

Fast-track tickets for the Tower of London aren’t available as such. That said, there are two ways that you can reduce your waiting time 1. Buy your ticket in advance or come armed with your London Pass or London Explorer Pass . That way, you eliminate the queue at the ticket booth. 2. Visit at a quieter time – or book an early access tou r here or here – to cut down the amount of time waiting in line at the security check. While you can’t avoid the queue at security, you can make it easier for yourself.

What to do if Tower of London tickets are sold out

As the Tower of London caps visitor numbers at busier times of the year by operating timed entry slots, you could find that the official website shows no availability (or you rock up at the ticket office to be given the same message).

If this happens, check if there are tickets available through GetYour Guide here .

Failing that, see if there is a group tour that includes entry to the Tower. As a separate allocation of tickets is available for group tours, you may have more luck.

Here are a few options to consider:

Beat the crowds with an early-access tour with a Beefeater .

A before-hours Tower of London tour with opening ceremony .

Early access to the Tower of London Tour plus a Thames River Cruise

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TOUR

line of marching yeoman warders at tower of london dressed in braided scarlet uniforms

Visiting the Tower of London: Practical Information

Facilities at the tower of london.

The Tower of London has toilets across the site, including those for disabled visitors. There are also baby-changing facilities.

There is a buggy park outside the White Tower and at the Middle Drawbridge (those ancient cobbles don’t exactly lend themselves to pushchairs),

Free WiFi is available throughout the Tower Of London.

Luggage storage is not available and large bags are not permitted in the Tower.

Accessibility at the Tower of London

HRP are committed to providing access and facilities for visitors with disabilities. There are a number of measures in place to assist those with disabilities and limited mobility and there is a full guide here .

That said, this is a historic building with steps, cobbled passageways and low doorways, and wheelchair access is limited.

Visitors with disabilities can bring an accompanying carer free of charge. These adult carer tickets can be obtained on the day of the visit upon presentation of proof of registered disability.

Eating & drinking at The Tower of London

Eating and drinking facilities at the Tower of London are limited.

Your best bet is the reasonably priced New Armouries Café, which serves hot meals, sandwiches, soup, salads, cakes and pastries, hot and cold drinks and a children’s menu. They also do a great plate of fish and chips, one of the foods that you must try in London .

A smaller range of snacks and drinks are available from a few kiosks dotted around the complex but they may not be open, especially during the week.

white tower at tower of london viewed through a stone arch

Photography at the Tower of London

Photography is allowed at the Tower of London with two notable exceptions:

The Jewel House
The Chapel of St. John (in the White Tower)

The Yeoman Warders will happily pose for a photo, but it’s only polite to ask before pointing your camera lens towards them.

Use of tripods and selfie sticks is subject to prior arrangement with the Tower’s conservation team.

Thank you for reading my Tower of London tips

Visiting the Tower of London is well worth £30 or so of your hard-earned cash. As a historic site, it is hard to beat.

The Tower was the setting for some of the most famous moments in English history. It was from this UNESCO World Heritage site that kings and queens wielded their power, shaping society and influencing our world.

If you have found this article helpful, take a look at some of my other articles on top attractions in London:

Visiting the Sky Garden, London
How to Visit The Shard for Free
Tate Modern vs Tate Britain: Which is the Best London Tate Gallery?
35 Epic Things To Do Alone In London
30 Famous Streets in London You’ll Love

field of flowers in front of old castle wall

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a Londoner and has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

Visiting the Tower of London (FAQs + best tickets & tours)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2023

If you’re planning on visiting the Tower of London, then this article is for you!

In this post we cover everything you need to know so you can plan the perfect visit, including why you must go, ticket and tour options, frequently asked questions and the passes you can purchase that include entrance to Tower of London.

If you want to know about opening times for the Tower of London, what there is to see and how to get to the London Tower, stay right here for the full lowdown.

Tower of London – Tickets & Tours Quick Picks

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Whether as part of a group or on a more independent basis, taking a London Tower tour is a must for just about anyone visiting the capital of England.

The Tower of London history is a rich, varied and very royal one. Visitors to the Tower can see the crown jewels in all their noble glory, as well as the uniformed guards who protect them.

You can also explore structures like the Bloody Tower, the Medieval Palace and the Norman style White Tower.

During your visit you can also explore the Fusilier Museum, enjoy a hands-on armoury experience, see the armour of past Kings and learn lots of Tower of London facts about the tower’s ravens and how the site was used in the past for torture, execution and imprisonment.

Admission to the Tower of London opens the door to a fun-filled day packed with fascinating historical insights. Everything about the place is so quintessentially British that it really would be a crime to miss it off your list.

Visiting the Tower of London FAQs

So what are the Tower of London visiting hours – when can you go? Times actually vary according to the season, so it’s best to check the latest details here .

At the time of writing, the cost of visiting the Tower of London varies according to when you go, your age and if you’re eligible for any concessions.

You can buy two types of family ticket to the Tower of London, and kids under five go free.

Booking the best Tower of London tours allows you to make the most of your day there, so you can spend your time wisely and learn from knowledgeable and enthusiastic history experts.

A guided tour of the Tower of London costs extra, but this can be from just a few more pounds if you opt for an audio tour .

Those wondering how to go to the Tower of London have several options, including the London Underground , mainline train and river or uber boat.

The closest tube station is Tower Hill on the Circle and District lines. It’s also possible to walk from London Bridge station in 10-15 minutes, Liverpool Street in 20 or Charing Cross in 25.

Transport for London’s journey planner can be accessed here .

Entry to the Tower of London can be quicker and easier during weekdays. Whichever day you go, arrive during the early morning if you can.

The crowds will generally get smaller after about 3 pm on weekdays, but as the Tower sometimes closes as early as 4.30 pm this would leave you with very little time to see all the sights.

Historic Royal Palaces, who operate Tower of London tickets and entry, are committed to accessibility.

The Tower is, however, a historic building containing features like steep staircases, narrow passageways, low doorways and cobblestones. This does limit wheelchair access.

Outdoor areas are open, and all registered disabled persons may bring a carer free of charge. Proof will be required to obtain this complimentary ticket.

The most obvious place to see nearby is Tower Bridge. If you can, the walk from here to visit London Bridge is worthwhile – plus it’s free and you can get some fresh air by the river.

There are some interesting sights to look out for along the way, such as the Shard, the city skyscrapers, Butler’s Wharf, HMS Belfast and St Katharine Docks.

Other London attractions that aren’t too far from the Tower include Borough Market and the Golden Hinde galleon, both of which are near London Bridge station. You could also cross the river to wander around the Tate Modern or to see Shakespeare’s Globe theatre.

Or head west instead of east from Tower Bridge, looking out for iconic landmarks like the OXO tower, Westminster and the London Eye as you stroll along the riverbank.

Ravens at the Tower of London with the Shard in the background.

How to visit the Tower of London – Best Tours and Tickets for the Tower of London

There are various options open to you when it comes to purchasing Tower of London tickets, and each has its plus points.

Factors to bear in mind include what is included, such as free cancellation, skipping the queue or a guided tour. Also how is the ticket delivered – will it be available as a download on your smartphone or printed on paper?

These are the main options when you want to buy Tower of London tickets.

You can of course buy tickets from the official Tower of London website.

You can book your tickets and see what there is to do while you’re there all in one place.

Tickets purchased via the site can only be amended or cancelled six weeks in advance.

At the time of writing, standard adult ticket prices cost from £28.90 when booked directly.

You can buy tickets via Historic Royal Palaces here .

Cancellations and amendments are permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you also get to skip the queue when buying via Get Your Guide.

You may also need to visit the official Tower of London site for further information.

Standard adult ticket prices also cost from £28.90 when booked via Get Your Guide – but unlike tickets purchased from the official site, these can be cancelled up to a day before if required.

Due to the flexibility of this ticket – and the fact that you won’t need to wait in line – we recommend buying them, at no extra cost, from Get Your Guide here .

View of Tower Bridge from the moat of the Tower of London.

Guided tours include extras as well as expert guidance. You can witness the opening ceremony, tour the Tower with a Beefeater, take a two-hour private tour or gain exclusive early entry to the Crown Jewels.

These options do cost more than a stand-alone entry ticket.

The cost varies according to the option selected: click the links below for more info.

Buy the Tower of London small group Beefeater tour here
Buy the Tower of London opening ceremony and early access tour here
Buy the Tower of London two-hour private guided tour here
Buy the Tower of London opening ceremony, early access and guided tour here ( read our review of this tour )

Statues of lions outside of the Tower of London.

Multi-venue tours are ideal for those with limited time in London, as you can pack more into a day than you otherwise would. These packages can also be good value for money.

One day tour even includes visits to Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace as well as the Tower of London, and even includes a cruise on the Thames.

You’ll have less time to spend at the Tower of London.

Each tour is priced differently. To find out more, you can click the links below.

>Buy the Tower of London and Tower Bridge tour here

>Buy the Tower of London and Westminster walking tour here

>Buy the Tower of London, Changing of the Guard and Westminster tour here

>Buy the Tower of London full day London sightseeing tour with river cruise here

Flowers in the moat at the Tower of London.

You can also buy London Tower admission as part of a multi-ticket such as the London Pass or the Go City London Pass.

This is delivered as a smartphone app , and can save money compared to buying separate tickets. You have 60 days to use it and can pick where to visit as you go.

You’ll have to buy at least 2 credits, and it may end up costing you more if you don’t use them all.

Prices start at £34 for an adult 2 choice pass, and go up to £118 for a 7 credit pass.

Find out more about the London pass in our complete review here or the Go City London Explorer here .

When visiting the Tower of London you can get fantastic views of Tower Bridge like in this picture.

We hope these visiting the Tower of London tips, tricks and ticket options have helped you plan your trip.

The Tower of London is one of those UK sights that you really cannot miss, and for most people, the memories will last a lifetime. Happy travels!

Honest Visitor’s Guide to the Tower of London (2024)

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Visiting the Tower of Londo n is one of the most important things on the list of many London tourists.

Not only is it a fortress in the middle of London with some pretty amazing views, but it’s also home to the Crown Jewels and thousands of years of history (including some pretty gnarly medieval torture!)

In this guide, I want to answer some of the main questions visitors have about visiting the Tower of London, an iconic London attraction , including the price, when to visit the Tower of London, and the different tour options.

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Where is the Tower of London?

You’ll find the Tower of London on the edge of the Thames River, near Tower Bridge .

The exact address is: Tower of London, London, EC3N 4AB.

The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

😍 Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
🎭 Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
🚕 Cheapest and most reliable airport transfer service: Welcome Pickups
🚉 Cheapest Way to Book Train and Bus Tickets: Omio
🔌 Most Reliable Adapter for UK Plugs: This one

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

How to Get to the Tower of London

The easiest way to get to the Tower of London is by public transportation or Uber/London taxi.

If you’re traveling by taxi, they won’t need the address, just tell them where you’re going!

If you’re traveling by public transportation, take the London Underground to Tower Hill Station (which serves the Circle and District lines) and then you’ll see the Tower as soon as you walk out of the station, just across the road.

⭐️ Top tip! ⭐️

To save yourself time, make sure to book your Tower of London tickets in advance here (and you’ll save some money!)

>>Click here to book in advance

Should I Visit the Tower of London?

Absolutely, yes!

This is a fan favorite amongst Londoners and London visitors alike.

One of the best things to do in London with kids , best things to do in London for couples , and best things to do in London overall.

Yes, it’s worth the money, yes it’s worth the time, and yes, if you can fit it in, you should definitely do it!

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

Buying Tickets to the Tower of London

You can buy tickets to the Tower of London on the day of try, but it’s a few pounds more than buying them online ahead of time.

I always recommend buying tickets online ahead of time if you can , though it is a massive place so you don’t need to buy them too far ahead of time to guarantee entry like some other London attractions.

The current prices for adults are £32.90 and starting at £16.40 for kids (with the online discount).

Kids under the age of 5 go free, and if you want an audio guide, they start at £4.00 extra.

You should also know that if you are buying tickets on the day, you need to go to the ticket office which is across the main entrance from the Tower of London.

It will be obvious if you’re walking from the tube station, but if you’re coming from a walk along the river, you’ll note that they do not sell tickets at the entrance directly facing the river.

Can I Use the London Pass at the Tower of London?

Yes, you can use the London Pass at the Tower of London.

Simply show your pass and you’ll be let in (there may be a line to get to the entrance, but once you get in, you’re in).

When Should I Visit the Tower of London?

As one of London’s most popular attractions, the Tower of London does get busy, particularly in the summer months.

London in August is very crowded, and this rings true for the Tower of London lines.

It’s always best to visit on a weekday for lower crowds, no matter the time of year, and if you’re really intent on getting in as fast as possible, try and arrange to be there at opening rather than mid-day.

Are there Tours at the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is, for the most part, a self-guided experience as you wander your away around the tower and the surrounding buildings to see what life was like for London residents (and prisoners) back in the day.

However, there are regular “beefeater” tours run by the yeoman warders throughout the day which are fantastic and worth doing.

Officially, they are “defenders of the tower,” but in reality they spend their time giving tours and educating visitors about the importance of what has and does go on at the Tower of London.

The regular beefeater tours are free with entry, you just need to get the daily guide that tells you the times and then meet at the starting point for the next tour.

As I mentioned, you can also get an audio guide to help you around the tower, particularly if you learn better listening to things rather than reading informational plaques.

If you want a more personalized experience with a smaller group than a standard Beefeater tour, you can also book onto a small group Beefeater tour with more opportunity to ask questions.

And, of course, if the Tower of London is even more important to you than that, you can take an exclusive pre-opening tour without the crowds and get to enjoy the opening ceremony, which is a truly special London experience .

Tower of London Touring Plan

Once you gain access into the Tower over the moat, you’ll have a ton of history, artifacts and displays at your fingertips.

The Tower of London is very much an entire day’s event if you are truly interested in seeing every nook and cranny, but if you don’t have that much time, you should start by lining up to see the Crown Jewels.

These are the real, authentic, actually-have-been-on-the-Kings-and-Queens heads crowns, jewelry, and other precious Royal Family heirlooms.

To see them, you go through an exhibit that shows Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation on the screen, and then proceed into the Crown Jewels room which has two moving walkways on either side.

You are not allowed to take pictures, and while you can go back and get on the walkways again, you cannot walk “backwards” on yourself while on them – the point is to give people enough time to see them without there being huge crowds of people surrounding them, blocking the view.

The Crown Jewels exhibit can have long lines if you go in peak summer months, which is why I prefer to do it first to get it “out of the way,” as it were.

After that, you could go explore the Medieval Palace, decorated how it would have looked when it was used by medieval royal residents.

Head to the Raven area to learn about the influence of these precious birds on the Tower’s history and folklore.

Stop by the “Torture at the Tower” and Tower Imprisonment exhibits to learn more about prisoners in the Tower of London and how they were treated (it’s pretty gruesome, but it’s medieval torture, so what do you expect?).

There’s also a super cool room based around animals at the Tower, as it was used to house animals who were gifted from all over the world at one point (not today, mind you!).

And of course you’ve got the White Tower in the center of it all, keeping everyone under control and under a watchful eye!

There are also various museums throughout the tower, as well as green patches and monuments to important historic moments, though some rather horrifying ones like public executions.

How Long Should I Spend at the Tower of London?

You’ll want to set aside at least 2 hours for a visit to the Tower of London, but you can easily spend 3-4 here if you take the Beefeater tour and want to explore all of the nooks and crannies.

And if you’re really interested in the Tower history specifically, this could be a full day event including lunch at the café by the time you see all of the exhibits, immerse yourself in the museums, and enjoy the events and talks.

Planning this in advance can help you decide how many days to spend in London .

Is the Tower of London Good for Kids?

The Tower of London is amazing for kids.

First of all, it’s a fortress, so what’s not to love?

Secondly, there are plenty of kid-friendly exhibits, lots of big signs and interactive things to enjoy, and they’ve kid-proofed the place so you don’t fear they’re about to knock over some ancient artifact or something – the important stuff is all behind sturdy glass!

Is the Tower of London Accessible?

One thing to be aware of about visiting the Tower of London with mobility issues is that you will be able to gain entrance and there will be accessibility ramps in some areas, as well as staff members who can guide you, but sadly the Tower was not built with care for those with mobility issues in mind and there is a limit to how many modifications can be made because of its historic nature.

Make sure to enquire with the Tower of London ahead of time what support there will be for you if you require extra assistance.

What else should I not miss in London?

If you’re visiting London soon, here’s a very brief rundown of a few of my other favorites to make sure you don’t miss anything!

Hidden London Walking Tour – this tour is the absolute best if you want to see London in a different light and uncover hidden nooks, crannies, and histories that you won’t get on your normal, run-of-the-mill London walking tour. Click here to check prices and book.
Historical Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill War Rooms – if you’re a history buff or even mildly interested in all of the insane things that have happened in London, particular during the wars, you have to book this tour which is an absolute bargain for the tour + entry to the Churchill War Rooms (basically two must-dos in one). Click here to check prices and book .
Cutest London Afternoon Tea on a Bus – want to see the sights and enjoy afternoon tea at the same time on the upper deck? Yes, absolutely you do. This afternoon tea is a real delight and helps you get out and about while also putting your pinkies up. Click here to check prices and book.

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

Ten reasons every Londoner should visit the Tower of London

William the Conqueror built the Tower of London to keep hostile locals off his back. 950 years on, there are still plenty of brilliant reasons to pay a visit, and these days you won’t meet a hail of arrows on your way in. We promise.

1. Hear all the gossip

Ace the next pub quiz by joining one of the free tours that set off from just inside the gates every half an hour (weather permitting). Hosted by the Yeoman Warders who work and live in the Tower, these anecdote-filled talks tell you everything you need to know about Traitor’s Gate, little princes, loyal ravens and terrible tortures. Brilliant ‘Beefeater’ banter.

Royal Collection Trust / © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2016

2. See the King's bling

…and the Queen’s trinkets too, of course. The Crown Jewels, which once played a starring role in a particularly good episode of ‘Sherlock’, are one of the biggest draws to the Tower of London. Did you know that the dazzling Koh-i-Nur diamond, originally brought to England for Queen Victoria and now sitting in the Crown of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, is said to carry a curse to any man that might wear it? Yep, it’s ladies only. By contrast, in the Martin Tower you’ll find the crown worn by George IV at his coronation. It’s stripped bare. No, not by a thief, but because the royal purse was in such a sorry state at the time, the jewels were rented!

Historic Royal Palaces

3. Break into prison after dark

See the Tower of London in a whole new light. Nightwatchers is a pulse-racing evening adventure for ages 16 and over. Created by digital theatre company Anagram, it’s an immersive digital experience that uses messages and phone calls to guide you around one of history’s most notorious lock-ups. Follow the drama, inspired by contemporary events and the intrigue-filled years of the Elizabethan secret service, complete with code-breakers, law enforcers and extremists.

4. Be king of the castle

Enjoy a walk along the fortress walls of the Tower of London, just as night watchmen and defending soldiers would have done hundreds of years ago. It’s a serious power trip.

5. Keep your head, where others lost theirs

Most beheadings actually took place outside the castle walls, on Tower Hill. Only the most exclusive prisoners were executed away from the public gaze. See where the Tudor VIPs met their end – Catherine Howard, Lady Jane Grey and of course, Elizabeth I’s mother, for whose beheading an expert swordsman was shipped in from France. A class act to the end, that Anne Boleyn.

Drawn at the Tower with Art Macabre

6. Become a palace artist

Ever fancied releasing your inner Holbein? Drawn at the Tower with Art Macabre after-hours art sessions give you the chance to sketch costumed royals, rogues and even the ravens, while you get to hear the stories behind the sights.

Historic Royal Palaces/Newsteam International

7. Visit London’s oldest zoo

For over 600 years, the wildest creatures to roam this corner of the East End weren’t drunken sailors but lions, elephants and baboons. In The Royal Menagerie, many of the animals from all over the world were given as gifts. Of course, Zone One London was never the best climate for many exotic creatures, but Henry III’s polar bear enjoyed catching fish in the Thames. Find out more in the Royal Beasts display .

8. ‘Meet’ the ghosts of the Bloody Tower

Hundreds of prisoners were held at the Tower of London over the years, right up to the twentieth century, when inmates included Rudolf Hess and, a few years later, the Kray Twins. In Tudor times, traitors were brought in by boat, and rarely walked free. Take a night-time tour of the cobbled courtyards to hear stories of the troubled souls who met a bloody end here. Not for under 12s (or scaredy pants).

9. Square up to Henry VIII

The spectacular collection of royal suits of armour in the White Tower includes two suits worn by Henry VIII. There’s one made for the fit twentysomething Henry and one for the king when middle age spread had taken hold. It must have taken a lot of horsepower to carry that heap of metal during a jousting match. Imagine the 400-year-old tabloid headlines: ‘Hungry Hippo Henry's Pie Shame’. Strictly no paparazzi at the beach, that’s for sure.

10. Make fun of history

Come on, kids, you know a trip to the Tower is a far more interesting way to learn about medieval castles than reading books. Join the Story Scramble – an interactive trail on which you have to untangle a series of events that really happened in the Tower. Meet some of the characters, look for clues and find special objects to complete your quest. The game is free and can be played between 11am and 2.30pm daily in half-term week (February 15 to 19). Your next history essay will blow your teacher’s socks off. Don’t forget also to download the new Time Explorers app for free, and go on an interactive adventure around the Tower of London. Search ‘Time Explorers’ in the App Store.

Tower of London, Tower Hill, EC3N 4AB.

Find out more about Tower of London .

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INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN TRAVELLING ALONE

15 Amazing Things To See and Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

A Smiling blonde woman standing in front of the Tower of London

Table of Contents

Updated on May 2nd, 2024

The Tower of London is undoubtedly one of the top attractions to visit in the United Kingdom. It is the home to the British crown jewels, a palace, a fortress & a prison all rolled into one. It is also instrumental in some of the UK’s grandest, most notorious & unbelievable history. Here are my top tips for visiting the Tower of London.”

Tower of London, United Kingdom

View to Tower Bridge The White Tower 15 Amazing Things To See & Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

I’ll be honest. I live just outside London. I have visited the Tower of London many times over the years, but I have never actually been inside its walls. However, as COVID has curtailed my travel plans, I figured that now is the perfect time to spend time getting to know my own country. As a result, I have discovered how fascinating & beautiful the UK truly is!

If like me, you have never visited & are able to, then all I can say is DO IT NOW! Firstly, in normal circumstances, they can receive up to 10,000 visitors a day. When I went there were around 300. You have the chance to view this icon of history, pretty much by yourself, without queues. Secondly, they desperately need our help. The palaces are a self-funding charity. If they don’t have money, they close. Currently like many businesses & institutions across the world, the palaces are facing unprecedented financial challenges. They have already been forced to make redundancies & more are bound to follow.

Therefore, now is the perfect time to show your support & immerse yourself in the folklore that surrounds this unique attraction. If you do, here is my list of best things to see & top tips for getting the most from visiting the Tower of London.”

For more about the top 5 palaces in London, check out my post HERE .

Planning a tour of the UK? See my Scottish Highlands Itinerary – A 10 Day Road Trip for the Highlands & Islands

15 Amazing Things To See & Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

Best time to visit the Tower of London

RIGHT NOW! GO!…if you can. Under less unusual circumstances, the Tower gets very busy so plan your visit for mid-week if possible. Tuesdays & Wednesdays are generally quieter & avoid the UK school holidays. Booking ahead will help to avoid the queues & is currently essential. In addition, get there early. The closer to the opening time you can arrive, the better. For all details on opening times check on the HRP website .

How much does it cost & how do I get tickets?

For an adult ticket, entrance to the Tower of London is £25, £12.50 for a child (2020 prices). Go directly to the Historic Royal Palaces website to buy your tickets & book ahead . However, if you are considering visiting any of the other palaces (Hampton Court, Banqueting House, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace or Hillsborough Castle), then you may like to consider becoming a Member . This costs £55 for a year & now is the best time to join as they are offering 15 months for the price of 12 (if you choose Direct Debit). Then admission to all palaces is free for as many visits as you like.

How much of the Tower of London is currently open?

Armour 15 Amazing Things To See & Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

During the current COVID restrictions, there are a few attractions which are also not accessible to visitors. These include the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula (see more on this later) & the Beauchamp Tower where you can view the graffiti left by prisoners. They are impossible to make “COVID secure” within current guidelines. In addition, the Yeomen Warder tours are not running at this time.

As soon as they begin again…

Join a Beefeater Tower of London Tour

Beefeaters 15 Amazing Things To See & Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

Also known as Yeomen Warders, the Beefeaters have played a pivotal role in the protection of the palace for over 600 years. This position is highly sought-after & swathed in centuries of tradition. These 32 men & women (5 have unfortunately been made redundant due to current financial challenges) have been guarding the Tower of London since Tudor times. To gain the role they need to have served in the military for at least 22 years & received a long service & good conduct medal.

Under normal circumstances the tours are included in the price of your admission, take around 1 hour & leave from the moat just inside the entrance.

Whether the tours are running or not…

Befriend a Beefeater

The Yeomen Warders are the font of all knowledge on the inner workings of the Tower. And they love to share their stories. If for whatever reason you visit & can’t get a tour, then hunt down a Beefeater & start to ask questions. There are plenty of them to meet around the Tower & in my experience, they love a chat! I quizzed a few of them & picked up some fascinating stories on my visit which I am going to share. My conversations with them were definitely one of my highlights from visiting the Tower of London. For example, did you know the origin of the phrase “one for the road” started here?

Within the Tower of London there used to be 23 pubs! One was just by the entrance, where the guards would lead the prisoners on their final walk to the executioner. The landlord would pull a pint for them & it was the last they would ever drink.”

Head straight for the Crown Jewels

Another important tip for visiting the Tower of London is to head straight to the Jewel House first. I have read that at busy times the queue can be up to 2 ½ hours! I walked straight in. Unfortunately, no photos or videos are allowed but the sheer grandeur & ostentatious display of wealth will take your breath away.

Sentry Gaurd 15 Amazing Things To See & Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

The Jewel House is protected by sentries from the Grenadier Guard who regularly make their presence felt to deter any intruders with an impressive marching display. Inside, you can view the royal regalia (sword, orb & surprisingly tiny gold gown) along with alter displays for the big ceremonies & celebrations. A conveyor belt parades you past a startling array of sparkling crowns before you can stare in awe at Queen Elizabeth II’s. Then go home & polish your jewellery! Check out all the facts about the Crown Jewels here so you know what to look out for.

My favourite thing in the whole display was the Grand Punch Bowl. Sculpted from pure gold & the ultimate in decadence. It is 1 metre in diameter & holds 144 bottles of wine. That’s one hell of a party!”

What to see in the Tower of London.

Here is my list of amazing things not to miss when visiting the Tower of London.

The White Tower

The real symbol of the Tower of London is the White Tower. Completed in 1100, it stands proud in the middle of the complex. It was built by William the Conqueror to intimidate & control London. Today, it houses numerous rooms each with their own unique place in history, including the Chapel of St John. Kings & Queens have been praying here for over 900 years! In addition, it is home to the Line of Kings, a historic display of armour & weapons. It started in the 16 th century to show off the power of the monarchy. Check out seemingly very well-endowed Henry VIII!

Medieval Palace

Located above Traitors Gate is the Medieval Palace, built in the 12 th century by Edward I. You get a real sense of how life would have been back in those days with a carefully reconstructed replica of the kings’ bedroom, among other gems.

Traitors Gate

The Thames was originally held back by the inner wall which you can now see as the gate marked for the Bloody Tower. There is a ring at the base of the gate where they tied up the boats. Then in 1200, the King decided to extend, & instructed his men to reclaim the land. They sunk huge metal pylons into the water & created Traitors Gate as the new entry point. The ambition & ability to do this back in those times blows my mind!

Traitors Gate then became the most notorious of all the entrances to the Tower, where boats would arrive directly from the river.

The Yeoman Warders met the prisoners at the steps. If the Yeomans axe faced them, they were to expect execution. If it faced away, it’s imprisonment.”

Only 10 people were actually executed at the Tower of London. There is a monument by the lawn to those who were (including Henry VIII’s ill-fated wives Anne Boleyn & Catherine Howard). Most met their grisly end & were executed at a point on Tower Hill. After that, the guards paraded the traitors head on a pole through the streets of London. The bodies of those who faced this notorious end were buried (minus their heads) in the Chapel.

Bloody Tower

In the Bloody Tower is the story of two princes who were brought here after the death of their father King Edward IV. The elder was due to be king, but the boys mysteriously went missing. In their absence, their uncle King Richard III was crowned in his place. It is still unclear what happened to the poor boys but I’m sure King Richard was totally innocent! 😉

In addition, you can gain an insight into the world of famous explorer Sir Walter Raleigh who was imprisoned here in 1603. The original plan was to execute him but instead, he stayed with his wife, created a garden, a laboratory, wrote a book & was held for 13 years.

Don’t miss the opportunity to walk around the walls of the Tower & learn more along the way. You can also get excellent views of the London skyline & Tower Bridge. It was fascinating to see the graffiti created by prisoners on the walls of the Salt Tower. It dates back to the 1500s.

The Chapel 15 Amazing Things To See & Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

The Tower of London was seen as a force of power throughout London & across the world. The builders constructed the Tower as a fortress but enemies rarely attacked. There are many spiral staircases around the Tower (beware if you suffer from claustrophobia).

If you feel particularly clumsy as you trip your way up the steps (like me!), don’t worry. They created the steps deliberately with some at different heights. As a result, they put invaders at a disadvantage during the climb to attack.”

Want to see more of London? Check out my One Day London Itinerary – 1 walk, 22 amazing attractions & 21 sights around London Bridge .

The Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula

The Chapel is apparently the last resting place of over 1000 bodies discovered during an excavation in the 1800s. Each was placed in a lead box & laid in the walls here. Therefore, it’s apparently amazing to see inside although closed during my visit. They have regular services which you can attend & the carolling event at Christmas time is supposed to be very special. If you get a chance to, nab yourself a ticket!

Thinking about Christmas? Check out my Unique Travel Gift list for the perfect present for the travel lover in your life.

Raven 15 Amazing Things To See & Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

The other most famous residents of the Tower of London are its ravens. The legend is that should they ever leave, both the White Tower & the Kingdom will fall. The ravens here are huge & more than slightly sinister. As a result, I certainly wouldn’t mess with them!

The Community

What surprised me most about my visit to the Tower of London is that a number of people actually live within its walls. The 150 strong community includes the Beefeaters, their families & those of the priest & doctor. Apparently, they now have only one pub. I can’t help thinking what a strong sense of community & tradition is upheld there & how many amazing stories are told over a few pints!

Community 15 Amazing Things To See & Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

Most of the Yeomen Warders live within the actual castle walls. The more eminent residents have the 400-year-old Tudor houses around the outskirts of the square. The Queens House is guarded by another sentry & has been home to the Towers chief officer since 1540 (not same guy all the time, obviously ;). They can & have interrogated prisoners in this house, including another famous inmate, Guy Fawkes.

In 1605 Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament. He was caught red-handed & brought here to answer questions about his co-conspirators.

Apparently, he took a lot to crack & it wasn’t until he had been placed on the tortuous rack 3 times that they actually learned his real name. Before that, he said he was called John Johnson!”

15. How to get to the Tower of London & where to stay?

If you would like to stay near the Tower of London, then there are numerous choices. My favourites include Citizen M , Tower Suites by Blue Orchid & The Tower A Guoman Hotel .

If you are not staying then the best way to plan your journey is to use the official Tower of London website which contains all the information you need.

In conclusion, visiting the Tower of London is a fantastic excursion & one that I would recommend, especially if you have never been. Now is definitely the time to see this icon at its best & have it to yourself!

And finally, here’s a video of more London Palaces to whet your appetite further.

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29 comments.

The Tower of London has always been one of my favourite historic sites to visit in London. Had the most amazing tour there once – the guide was such a fantastic storyteller. Must be great to visit now without all the crowds.

Thank you, Sarah, & without the crowds was fantastic. I think all the Beefeaters are great storytellers & it was just a shame that I couldn’t get an official tour too…but you can’t have everything! Sue x

Its been a while since I have been inside the Tower of London but it is such an iconic place to visit when in London. Your guide for the first time visitor is perfect. I was lucky enough to buy one of the ceramic poppies that were on display a few years back, it takes pride of place in my garden.

Thank you Angie. I have one of the poppies too & was devastated a couple of weeks ago when it fell & knocked a couple of the petals off. I have many pieces now & am hoping to find someone who can help me piece it back together. Fingers crossed! Sue x

When I visited London I did not go to the tower, or actually like London… but I had a high fever so I will blame it on that 😀

Thank you, Ann, & so sorry. I hope one day you will be able to return, without a fever & actually enjoy the experience next time! Sue x

No matter where you go, it’s always the people you meet that created the most memorable moments. I still haven’t been to the Tower of London. When I was on assignment in London, my husband came to visit, and he went and loved it. He bought me a black pillow with a crown on it as a consolation prize!

Thank you, Jay, & I couldn’t agree more about travel being about the people you meet! I’m glad you at least got a present & have no doubt you still wear your crown for special occasions;) Sue x

I haven’t been to London yet, although it’s at the top of my list. I’ve heard of the Tower of London, but never really knew quite what it was. Thanks for all the details. I’d love to have a chat with a Beefeater. I’m sure they have some amazing stories to tell.

Thank you, Nancy & it’s definitely one to add to your list when you do finally make it to London. Sue x

We did enjoy our visit to the Tower of London. We had a great Beefeater who had lots of stories to share when we toured. It was fun to imagine being decorated in the Crown Jewels. But your post showed me that we missed many of the historic spots to see. All good reasons to visit the Tower of London again one day.

Thank you, Linda, & I’m a little jealous of your tour as I think the Beefeaters are all real characters & great storytellers. However, I’m also pleased I was able to introduce a few other places too & give you a reason to return 😉 Sue x

It’s years since I’ve been in the Tower of London, but this has made me want to visit again! The Chapel looks beautiful and I had no idea that so many people actually lived there! Imagine having Tower of London as your address 🙂 So much info – loved it!

You are so lucky that you don’t have it far to London! However, I’ve visited London many times – from Hamburg, it’s really not that far. And I’ve also visited the Tower before. By accident, I entered the room with the crowns and jewels through the exit and consequently didn’t have to wait in line; amazing what kind of details I remember…. Anyway, since entrance fees to London’s landmarks are not exactly cheap, the tip regarding the membership is actually great. Can I also become a member if I’m not living in England? Just the other day, I realized that I haven’t been to London for five years – so that’s something for my list for better times – that will hopefully come really soon.

Thank you, Renata & going into the Jewel House by the exit sounds like a top tip to me! 😉 I don’t see why the membership would only be restricted to people living in the UK. As you say, these are not cheap places to visit & they are also desperate for funds right now, so restricting it to me would be counterintuitive. I hope things calm down so you can visit again soon. Sue x

I have been to the Tower of London almost 20 years ago! We had a great tour of the place with a very good guide explaining the background and history of everything there. It must be nice to visit the place without much crowd now. Must do another visit soon! 🙂

Thank you, Jan. And it was amazing to see with so few people, but the downside being that I didn’t get the full tour which I have no doubt would be brilliant. I hope you get back soon. Sue x

I visited the Tower of London in 2005 with a tour and all. Was very inpressed, although we had the big crowds.

Thank you, Cosette. It seems to be a trade-off right now – no crowds but they also can’t do the tours which I have no doubt would be amazing. Sue x

This sounds so fabulous Sue. I wish I could go back and check it out again. All I remember of my visit when I was 20something (a million years ago) was slowly shuffling along with the crowd to see the crown jewels. I had no idea there was so much more to see there. Great post.

Thank you, Alison, & I hope you get back to check them out again soon! It’s funny what you remember about previous trips, I recently also went to Hampton Court where I first went with the school. All I remember is the Maze but like you say…there is so much more to see! Sue x

This is a great guide, thanks for sharing! I loved visiting the Tower of London a couple of years ago

Thank you, Maria & really pleased you enjoyed my guide! Sue x

Such a fascinating history. Have been many times as a kid and a couple times as an adult and it doesn’t get any less impressive. I love reading about the stories of what happened there, it’s such an iconic place in London

Thank you, Emma & I couldn’t agree more, so iconic with some really fascinating stories! Sue x

Wow I can’t imagine it so empty! I went years so as a student in London and remember a very long queue. What a special experience! Thanks for sharing all the rooms too because now I can feel a little like I was there while I can’t get there!

Thank you, Heather & I was very lucky to visit when it was so empty. I got a feel for the level of queues under normal circumstances though & I don’t believe I would have enjoyed it nearly so much! Sue x

Great tips for visiting the tower! If I lived a bit closer I would probably visit it again because I loved my first couple of trips there.

Thank you, Krista. I hope you are able to get back soon…ideally before the big crowds do 😉 Sue x

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I aim to inspire women in mid-life to embrace the power of solo travel. I have been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years having visited over 80 countries across 6 continents. Here I share my travel tales, tips & recommendations to help you rediscover yourself while exploring the world. I’d love for you to join me on the journey.

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You in London

Itineraries and things to do in london, 10 tips for a perfect day at the tower of london.

The Tower of London is one of the most visited attraction in London and every year it attracts 3 million visitors. It surely can get crowded!

But is visiting the Tower of London really worth it? Absolutely, but it can also turn into a bad day if you don’t follow a few tips. These are my suggestions for a perfect day at the Tower of London

1) Choose the day well 2) Arrive early 3) Buy a membership 4) Visit the Crown Jewels first 5) Visit the White Tower next 6) Follow a Yeoman tour 7) Visit the Bloody Tower and learn the story of the two princes 8) Make a tour of the ramparts 9) Arrive at the Tower by boat 10) Take a walk on the Tower Bridge

Choose the day well

The Tower of London is a very popular destination for Londoners and tourists alike, so it can get very very busy. The summer months and the school holidays are the times of the year when it gets incredibly crowded, so you’d better avoid them, if you want to have a pleasant day out. If you can make your visit during the week, that would save you the hordes of the weekend, but again try to avoid half terms or other school breaks. Even if you manage to choose the best day of the calendar to visit the Tower of London, don’t forget my second tip…

Arrive Early

Buy a membership.

This might sound like a weird suggestion, especially for those who don’t live in London. A membership costs a whopping £53 – £82 if you choose a joint membership. However, the entry ticket costs £30, so two visits will amply cover the entry costs. Plus, a membership allows you to visit other royal palaces for free, like the beautiful Kensington Palace and the magnificent Hampton Court Palace. You also have a free entry to other interesting places in London, like the Banqueting House on Whitehall and reduced tickets for Kew Gardens (and a free entry to Kew Palace). If you live in London, or if you happen to come to London fairly often, a membership is surely advisable.

For tourists a membership might not seem the most economical solution, but if you have 2 of these palaces in your list of things to do in London , the cost will be amply covered . Those tourists who really want to see more attractions during their stay, could consider a London Pass instead. I will talk a bit more about this in a separate post.

Visit The Crown Jewels first

If you have followed my first 2 tips, probably you have spent a minimum time queuing before entering the Tower, but you’ll risk to ruin your day if you don’t go and see the Crown Jewels before anything else. If you don’t want to take my word for it, look at the images below: this is the empty entrance to the Crown House even on a busy Sunday in June

And this is what it looked like only 30 minutes later: the queue is building up

And an hour later this is what you get:

Convinced? Go straight to the Crown Jewels as soon as you get in! You’ll have more time to wonder around after you have ticked this box. And trust me: the Crown Jewels are really magnificent!

Visit the White Tower next

Inside the White Tower there is also an interesting short film showing the history of the Tower of London, and there’s an area for kids to play (although I don’t think the Tower of London is the ideal place to visit with young children: too many queues and not much space to play, and a lot of steps. I have written a specific post on what to do in London with your children ).

Follow a Yeoman tour

The yeomen are the guardian of the Tower of London, the crows keepers and also the official guides of the Tower. They are a group of very dedicated people, extremely friendly and knowledgeable on everything about the Tower. They also live inside the Tower of London with their own families, which I think make them even more specially attached to it.

They simply know every story and legend, every ghost and gruesome anecdote about the Tower, and following one of their tours will give you a more complete experience.

Visit the Bloody Tower and learn the story of the two princes

The Bloody Tower owes is name to the unfortunate experience of those who were kept prisoner there. However, the imprisonment in the Tower was not always as bad as it is sounds. Inside the Bloody Tower, for instance, you’ll see the living quarters of Sir Walter Raleigh, who was imprisoned here, but lived in relative comfort with his family, was allowed to attend a garden and to follow his botanical interests. Clearly, he was not a free man, so he had is moment of depression, but still was able to conduct a decent life.

The story of the two princes is one of the saddest of the Tower: the young Edward V and his younger brother Richard were transferred to the Tower of London in 1483, before Edward’s coronation. While they were kept here – allegedly for security reasons – the were declared illegitimate, thus losing their right to the throne. Initially they were left free to play around the castle and its grounds – after all they were just two 9 and 12 year old kids – but later they were seen less and less until they disappeared. Apparently, they were murdered by their own uncle, the future King Richard III, and their bodies hidden.

As we all (probably) know, King Richard III did not have a long and peaceful reign, and soon after having removed the young princes from his path to the throne, he was defeated in the battle of Bosworth – the last King of England to die on a battlefield (how many things you learn from a Yeoman…)

In 1674, during the some work in the White Tower, a box was found under a staircase, containing some human bones. An analysis revealed that they were two young children. Many think that these were the remains of the two unfortunate princes, whose ghosts are still spotted in the grounds… Ask a Yeoman for confirmation!

Make a tour of the ramparts

A walk on the ramparts of the Tower of London will offer amazing views on the Thames, the Tower Bridge and the City of London. Along the rampart you can also see the reconstruction of the medieval palace and you’ll be able to learn more interesting stories about the Tower and its inhabitants. Images speak more than words…

Arrive at the Tower of London by boat

Take a walk on the tower bridge.

If you have visited the Tower of London and would like to leave your own suggestions for a perfect day out, you can use the space for your comments below.

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Everything you need to know about: the Tower of London

Without a doubt, the Tower of London is one of the most recognisable and iconic landmarks in London.

It’s also one of the most historic, with a long, bloody history that dates back almost a thousand years. Discover more about the history of this medieval fortress and an infamous former prison with the help of our handy FAQ guide.

If you’re visiting London, why not see it for yourself on one of our London tours ? Travel around London with an expert guide, who will bring the history of the capital’s most famous sights and iconic landmarks to life.

The Tower of London is a historic, 900-year-old castle and UNESCO World Heritage site located in London, England.

Early foundations, believed to have been a wooden palisade made from timber, were laid in 1066. The White Tower , a keep located in the innermost ward, is the oldest part of the castle and dates back to the 1070s.

The first structures of what would later become The Tower of London were built by William the Conqueror following his conquest of England in 1066. Over the next 250 years, the fortress went through several phases of expansion under various English kings.

The Tower has been used and repurposed to fulfil many roles throughout its long history. A grand royal palace in its early history, it was later used as a fortress and prison, place of execution, an arsenal, royal mint, and menagerie (or zoo) and is currently home to the priceless Crown Jewels of England.

The Tower of London is owned by The Crown Estate, which belongs to Queen Elizabeth II in ‘the right of the Crown’ by virtue of being the reigning monarch. It is not the private property of the crown, and therefore cannot be sold.

Must-see highlights include the White Tower, the Jewel House – home of the priceless Crown Jewels – The Royal Mint, the ‘Bloody Tower’ and Tower Green; site of many of the executions that took place at the Tower. There’s also the chance to watch the ‘Ceremony of the Keys’ – the 700-year-old traditional ‘locking up’ of the Tower gates each evening.

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5 Reasons To Visit The Tower Of London

The Tower of London has seen a lot over its one thousand year history. A Queen lost her head on its grounds, princes have been imprisoned in the infamous white tower and exotic animals have roamed its grounds. The fortress is also home to the priceless Crown Jewels. Positioned on the north bank of the River Thames, it’s one of London’s most majestic buildings and has fascinated me since my first visit as a child.

There’s no doubt the castle has huge appeal for children. This half-term there are special events and tours to discover more about the tales hidden within its walls. Here’s five reasons to visit the Tower of London this half term.

Marvellous Menagerie

Did you know the Tower of London was once home to more than 60 species of animals? From lions and tigers to a polar bear who would fish in the Thames, the royals kept such ‘pets’ as a symbol of power and amusement. The Royal Menagerie was founded in 1200 by King John and closed in 1832 when the animals were moved to their new home in Regents Park (now London Zoo).

Tower of London, Royal beasts, menagerie

Take the children on a journey this half term with activities exploring the royal beasts that once roamed the grounds. Follow a trail and draw the animals you spot around the Tower. There’s even the opportunity to listen to ‘Animal Tales’ from the Menagerie and bring the animals back to life at its drop-in puppet making station.

Crown Jewels

Behind the Tower’s heavily defended walls you can marvel at the world-famous collection of 23,578 gems. Still used in royal ceremonies today, the Crown Jewels are the most powerful symbols of the British Monarchy. Inside the mighty White Tower, you’ll also discover displays of arms and armour, which were made and secured there for hundreds of years.

A Royal Palace

The Tower of London was home to Royals for hundreds of years. Today you can visit the Medieval Palace and see recreations of interiors used by medieval kings.

How about seeing history brought to life? The daily immersive performance, Conquest, does just that. Choose which side to join in the Norman Conquest. Follow the Tower’s costumed performers through the battles, treachery, rebellion and the founding of the Tower of London.

An Infamous Prison

The Tower of London was used as a prison from 1100 up until 1952. The Kray twins were the last prisoners to be held there – for failing to turn up for national service. Explore the spaces where famous prisoners were kept and discover the graffiti they left behind 500 years ago.

To immerse yourself further into the experience, download the free ‘Time Explorers’ app before your visit and go on a digital mission at the Tower. You’ll be able to join the Prisoner’s Perilous Plot and help Arbella Stuart to free her husband, William, from his prison in the Tower. Try to help him escape – without getting caught yourself!

Yeoman Warder guided tours

The ‘Beefeaters’, as the Yeoman Warders are nicknamed, are one of the most striking symbols of London and the Tower. It’s thought their nickname is derived from their position in the Royal Bodyguard, which permitted them to eat beef from the king’s table.

Beefeaters (or Yeoman Wardens) from the Tower of London

A Yeoman Warder tour is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to the Tower. Join the tour and be entertained with tales of intrigue, imprisonment and much more.

The Tower of London is understandably one of London’s most popular attractions. It is a fascinating place to visit and I can’t wait to take my daughter to discover more about the castle and its chequered history.

Getting There The nearest tube is Tower Hill

Tickets Book tickets online to get the best price. Daily family activities are included in a family Tower ticket.

Have you been to the Tower of London before? What would you most like to see there?

*Written in collaboration with Historic Royal Palaces **Pictures courtesy of HRP and Pixabay

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5 Reasons to visit the Tower of London with kids

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I've always loved to travel so when my two daughters came along, I didn't stop. Travelling as a family can have its ups and downs but I love showing my children the world and helping others navigate travelling with children in tow.

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City tripping #93.

Isn’t great and so much more than just a palace…a fortress, prison and zoo too!

It certainly is for me too. Looking forward to rediscovering it!

The Tower of London is one of my favorite castles and it’s been years since I’ve been inside. Would love to do another tour, especially with a Yeoman! #CityTripping

That’s great to hear! I’m looking forward to doing another Yeoman tour soon too.

Hope you get to go soon!

Oh, you must go next time you’re in London. You won’t be disappointed.

A truly historic place to visit. Arriving by boat and imagining you are royalty is great. Traitors Gate is a good start to some odiferous the torrid tales too! Are you watching Gunpowder on BBC? Not for the squeamish! Wilbur. #citytripping

Very true, great to see it from the river. I need to catch up on Gunpowder!

You absolutely must Lisa!

I have been to the Tower of London back in the days with school. I remember I was fascinated by the black ravens back then.

Enjoy your holiday on Santorini.

#citytripping

Thanks Jules. Yes, the black ravens give a bit of a mystical dimension to the Tower.

You’re right, there’s so much to see there. Isn’t it a cute picture! Not mine I admit!

That’s so great to hear.

Oooh – thanks for the book tip. I really enjoy reading novels about places that I visit. Helps to give context and stoke the imagination.

What a lovely treat for her (and you) and no doubt an incredible education for you both too.

We love the Tower of London. So much to see and do, perfect for children #citytripping

Isn’t it great!

You should take a look next time you’re in London.

I wouldn’t mind visiting the Tower of London again because it’s so fascinating. I went there back in 2004 and I remembered going for the Yeoman Warder tour and saw the Crown Jewels. London is so full of history, that’s why I LOVE it! 🙂 #Citytripping

SO great to hear you love London. I’m really looking forward to visiting the Tower of London again – there’s so much to learn there.

So glad you enjoyed your visit. The menagerie is fascinating – although I’m not sure the animals were kept particularly well. They were there more as a symbol of power and wealth for the Royals.

Oh fantastic! Look forward to hearing all about it!

It certainly is!

That’s a great membership to have!

We LOVED the Tower when we visited this summer. The Beefeater tour is one of my husband’s favorite things ever… he kind of wants to be one of them, lol. #citytripping

Hehe! How funny! They have a cool uniform and must know a lot of secrets hidden in the castle.

I have visited this place a few years ago and if I will go to the London again I will visit this place again for sure! It really amazing place 🙂

It’s brilliant!

They are funny, aren’t they!

Nice to see you covered one of my favorite cities in the world. Supposed to be going to Japan with a stopover in London (We are taking the long way there). Thanks for the information. I will try and visit when I go.

It is definitely a must visit! You’ll enjoy.

I love the way you have written this.. 😀 I’m going to plan my trip to UK and I will definitely add to visit the tower on london in my bucket list. 🙂

Thank you! The Tower of London is definitely a must-see!

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The Tower of London is a definite “must see” on any visit to London, providing a colourful journey into the centuries of history all contained within its immense walls. It is a popular attraction, so don’t be surprised at the length of the queue to enter through its gates. To have more time inside, a London Pass can get you a fast and “free” entry ( the pass itself costs money but includes entry to the Tower and nine other very popular attractions). It is the type of place one can visit again and again.

The Tower encompasses a dozen acres in the heart of London.

Here are some reasons you should visit the Tower of London:

Traitors Gate – entrance to the Tower from the Thames

A “Beefeater” Guard on his rounds

The White Tower

The Tower is easy to imagine as a prison but was also home to exotic animals too at one time.

One of the half dozen resident ravens of the Tower. Beheading block and axe.

You will depart from the Tower with little snippets of history impressed in your memory that will stay with you over the years – probably longer than anything you will see on a documentary or television production. This could be observing names scratched into the stone walls by prisoners now centuries in the grave (and usually not from a natural death), or hearing a tour guide’s remark about the chapel floor sitting on a sea of bones ( St. Peter and Vinicula). Overall, this is a fascinating adventure into England’s history not to be missed.

If you are sailing to or from Southampton on a cruise, be sure to have your travel professional add on a few days exploration time in London. The Tower is just one of many fascinating places to see, and then there is the theatre, shopping, dining and the night life!

Article written by D. MacIntyre of compassmedia.solutions who thoroughly enjoyed her tour of the Tower. Photos courtesy of Bigstock and Pixabay.

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Tower of London

The Tower of London is a definite “must see” on any visit to London, providing a colorful journey into the centuries of history all contained within its immense walls. It is a popular attraction, so don’t be surprised at the length of the queue to enter through its gates. To have more time inside, a London Pass can get you a fast and “free” entry ( the pass itself costs money but includes entry to the Tower and nine other very popular attractions ). It is the type of place one can visit again and again.

The Tower encompasses a dozen acres in the heart of London. (Courtesy: Pixabay)

White Tower. (Courtesy: Bigstock)

Here are some reasons you should visit the Tower of London:

The Beefeaters, dressed in their traditional colorful uniforms, act as your guides relating equally colorful stories about the history of the Tower. Many tales are rather gruesome, some familiar from school or television but all are fascinating. The “tower” is synonymous with imprisonment but it has also functioned as an armoury, a zoo, and a treasury since it was built in medieval times. Kings and other royals have also used it as a sanctuary. It is an imposing structure even today, rather grim and forbidding still, twelve acres or so large, with a border on the river Thames. Prisoners used to enter the fortress through Traitors Gate having been rowed silently and oft secretly to their final “home” rather than taken through the streets of London.

Traitors Gate – entrance to the Tower from the Thames (Courtesy: Bigstock).

A “Beefeater” Guard on his rounds. (Courtesy: Pixabay).

Besides acting as tour guides, the Beefeaters are primarily the soldiers and Royal guards at the Tower. (only a few of them are guides!) At the Tower, they guard more than bricks and mortar: this is the home of the Crown Jewels. You can line up to see the jewels but, as can be imagined with these priceless items, the security is very strict. Only so many people are allowed in the vault/display room at a time and you must never stop moving so your view is short and sweet. The sight of these sparkling, famous, and in some cases enormous, jewels is well worth any wait.
The Tower also has an immense display of historical armour. Even if you are not a fan or very knowledgeable about historical weaponry, it is still fascinating to see.
Not interested in armour? Maybe coins are your interest. The Tower has an interactive and educational display of the time when the Tower was also the Mint ( from the 1200’s to 1812).
Do you enjoy ghostly tales? You will see where Anne Boleyn lost her head, and where she purportedly haunts “with her head underneath her arm”.
Does superstition turned tradition fascinate you? You’ll see the ravens in the courtyard. Legend has it when these ravens leave the Tower of London, the tower (hence England in the old days) will fall.

The Tower is easy to imagine as a prison but was also home to exotic animals too at one time. (Courtesy: Pixabay).

Tower Gate (Courtesy: Bigstock).

Resident Tower Raven. (Courtesy: Bigstock).

Executioner’s Block & Axe (Courtesy: Pixabay).

Main (header) image of marching Yeomen courtesy of Pixabay.

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Why You Should Visit the Tower of London

I know that if I had titled this article “Why You Should Visit London”, you would have thought, “Well that’s a no-brainer!” Because we all know there are so many reasons why the city of London is visit-worthy. But I’d like to go a step further and tell you why you should visit the Tower of London once you are there.

The White Tower was the original Tower of London. Begun by William the Conqueror around 1080, it would have made a safe and impressive home for the newly crowned Norman invader. During its long life – it is almost as old as the Millennium – it has served many purposes including Royal residence, Royal Observatory, Public Records Office, State Prison, gunpowder store and is still home to the Royal Armouries. Photo credit hrp.org.uk

Let me first explain why I’m qualified to make this suggestion. I love history, especially the stories behind medieval buildings and castles. I enjoy exploring new places — like REALLY exploring all the nooks and crannies. As a result I’ve traveled to many of Europe’s castles, and I’m telling you the Tower of London is one of the best history “adventures” I’ve experienced. Oh, and I like to laugh — some of the tour guides are hilarious!

So here are my reasons why you should visit the Tower of London:

1. It’s one of the oldest buildings in London

If you are fascinated with historic architecture, or are just wondering “how in the world did someone build a structure like this without modern tools?”, then you’ll love learning about the Tower of London. The original White Tower is actually the oldest structure (completed in 1086), but there are many other buildings in the complex — an old mint, several towers, two concentric rings of fortifications, a moat, and a chapel, plus living quarters.

2. You should visit the Tower of London because it’s infamous

William the Conqueror built the Tower to show some muscle, and ever since it has been the site of royal tragedy and death. It’s been used as a state prison and a place of torture for anyone who didn’t please the current monarch. Well-known prisoners have included Lady Jane Grey , two of Henry VIII’s wives ( Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard ), the royal twins Edward of England and Henry of Shrewsbury, and the religious martyr John Frith .

Lots of information is available on printed signs and memorials, as well as the tours given by the Beefeaters. You should visit the Tower of London just to learn the details you might not have known otherwise. Some of the stories were deeply moving. Prisoners held here weren’t just criminals. You could end up on the wrong side of the monarchy just by being a different religion, or being related to a traitor.

3. Because of the Beefeaters!

The Beefeaters are the ceremonial guardians of the Tower of London. Their official title is Yeomen Warders of the Fortress of the Tower of London. The name Beefeaters comes from the fact that until the 1800’s, part of their salary was paid with chunks of beef. Today, the Beefeaters are charged with looking after Tower prisoners (though there aren’t any) and guarding the Crown Jewels. But practically speaking, they act as Tour Guides. They will tell you all the stories about the Tower of London and the people who lived there or were imprisoned there. Some of the stories are tragic, but many are quite funny. This was the best part of my Tower of London visit. I suggest joining a Beefeater tour first when you visit, because it gives you a wonderful overview. Being entertained is included with the admission price, so don’t miss it!

you should visit the tower of london to see Beefeaters

The Beefeaters wear a distinctive uniform, consisting of a dark blue and red tunic with the large initials “E.R”, meaning Elizabetha Regina (Regina is Latin for Queen). I learned that the families of the Beefeaters live at the Tower of London, too; here’s a fascinating article about what it’s like to live within the Tower compound. My Beefeater tour guide just happened to be Moira Cameron, the first and only female Beefeater!

4. It’s got some royal bling

Yes, the Crown Jewels are here! And you can see them for yourself. It’s another reason why you should visit the Tower of London. It literally is the only way you will ever get to see them up close. The ‘Crown Jewels’ include crowns, robes, and other ceremonial regalia and have been under guard at the Tower of London since the 1600’s. The Crown Jewels are significant because they represent authority being passed from one monarch to another during the coronation ceremony.

I couldn’t take photos of the Crown Jewels; you might be interested in this description of what can be seen . The collection on display is rotated, so you might not get to see them all at any one time. Lines to see the jewels can be long, but I didn’t wait in a line at all, so I guess it just depends on when you visit.

5. The Tower is at the heart of historic London

Medieval homes inside the Tower of London compound

Within a two-mile radius, you’ll find Tower Hill, the Tower Bridge, sections of the old London wall, the HMS Belfast, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Leadenhall Market, the Bank of England, St. Dunstan in the East church, Finsbury Circus Gardens, Borough Market, and so many more historic London gems. Of course, a short tube ride will take you to Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Westminster.

Learning about the Tower of London and its history sets you up to better understand and appreciate so much about London. You can’t really know London without learning its history! It is such a huge part of what London is today. Here’s an overview of London that highlights many of the historic sights and attractions.

Any more reasons why you should visit the Tower of London?

It’s very affordable education/entertainment. Adult tickets are £24.70 and children £19.30. Considering you could easily spend half a day here or more, it’s about the same rate as watching a movie at the theatre.
There’s a gift store and several dining options.
You’ll see views of the Tower Bridge that are spectacular!

You’ll learn about the famous Tower of London ravens and why they are protected.

See extensive collections of armor, cannons, weapons, and so much more!

I’m really grateful I took the time to visit the Tower of London — it was fascinating to me. I hope I’ve convinced you it’s one of the first places you should visit in London.

As is common in the travel industry, I was invited to visit the Tower of London and share my review with you. My husband accompanied me and he paid for his own admission. We both highly recommend it, based on our experience!

Why You Should Visit the Tower of London

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6 thoughts on “ Why You Should Visit the Tower of London ”

My ancestor did time in the tower!

Honestly, that must have been terrifying!

Wow! I loved reliving my trip to London Tower as I read through your post. In fact, you even saw the SAME beefeater that we had on our tour two years ago. London Tower was one of our favorite attractions the entire trip!!

How funny we had the same Beefeater… She was so good at telling the stories!

This is awesome I too love history! I would want to visit for that alone but to see the Crown Jewels up close is enough to draw me in!

I went years ago to the Tower of London, and it was such a highlight of my trip. The next time I’m in London, I’d go again to see the crown jewels. It really is a wonderful educational attraction.

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Five reasons you should visit the Tower of London

November 26, 2019

Sat right in the lap of Blue Orchid Hotels’ Tower Suites is the world-famous Tower of London. While Tower Suites is one of the best hotels in London to enjoy unbeatable views over the stunning landmark, we will always advise any guest to join the 3 million people who visit the Tower each year.

Should you need convincing to add the Tower to your sightseeing list, here are our top five reasons you should pay it a visit:

1. Genuine Medieval Fortress

2. the crown jewels, 3. well-known residents, 4. the lucky ravens, 5. guardians of the tower.

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5 Reasons to Visit the Tower of London

The Tower encompasses a dozen acres in the heart of London.

Here are some reasons you should visit the Tower of London:

Traitors Gate – entrance to the Tower from the Thames

A “Beefeater” Guard on his rounds

The White Tower

The Tower is easy to imagine as a prison but was also home to exotic animals too at one time.

One of the half dozen resident ravens of the Tower. Beheading block and axe.

Article written by D. MacIntyre of compassmedia.solutions who thoroughly enjoyed her tour of the Tower. Photos courtesy of Bigstock and Pixabay.

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Top 10 Reasons to Visit London

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Many of our posts are focused on specific reasons/experiences to visit a particular location. However, if you are like us, you will enjoy a quick summary of the top 10 reasons for visiting a destination around the world. With that in mind, we are delighted to introduce a brand new series on our site that focuses on the “Top 10 Reasons to visit xyz” . Today we would like to share with you our Top 10 Reasons to Visit London !

I am convinced there are many more reasons out there and I am sure we all have very different opinions on what should be on each of our bucket lists, but we want to start the conversation by introducing just a few reasons that makes London such an attractive location for us.

I’m leaving because the weather is too good. I hate London when it’s not raining! – Groucho Marx

From a Brit’s perspective, is there any better place around the world to start than England’s capital city of London? From a Southern American’s perspective… well come on folks, this is LONDON we are talking about, need I say any more!

London is undoubtedly one of the top tourism attractions in the world and of course for very good reason! From the realms of historic heritage to the cultural immersion that this city offers, London has it all.

Please feel free to add your reasons for visiting London in the comments section and share with everyone what makes this beautiful city such a popular destination for global wanderers.

One of the most iconic landmarks not only in London, but around the globe! Big Ben is the nickname for the bell in the clock tower at the end of the Houses of Parliament and for decades has remained an integral part of London’s heritage.

A trip to the English capital would not be the same without taking in this landmark, and of course why not take a selfie with Big Ben in the background as the clock strikes 12!

2. Buckingham Palace

Would a trip to London be the same without a visit to the home of the Queen – Buckingham Palace?

Whether you are interested in British Royalty or think it’s an overhyped hypocrisy, the sight of the palace at the end of the Mall is pretty spectacular and well worth taking the time to experience.

3. Walking the London Streets

What better way to sample the real hidden gems that London has to offer than by wandering around the streets after alighting from one of the iconic London Tube stations.

Whether you are exploring the ritzy Kensington Gardens area or Hyde Park neighbourhood, I can guarantee that you will stumble across a treasured memory along the way.

4. Windsor Castle

Exploring London is not just about experiencing everything the capital city has to offer in the downtown area though there is plenty to see there that will likely keep you occupied for a few days!

If time permits, head west to the idyllic town of Windsor to see another of the Royal residences – Windsor Castle. Whether you are a history buff or not, this impressive structure will leave you standing in awe as you contemplate the history that surrounds this residence.

5. Tower Bridge

With the River Thames running through the heart of London, many of the bridges that cross this river are yet more impressive structures that immediately catch your eye as you enter the city.

Possibly the most famous of them all is Tower Bridge that is steeped with history since its construction in the late 19th century.

6. Tower of London

By now you will have noticed that London and the surrounding area is full of palaces and royal residences. Let’s continue this theme by taking a trip over to the Tower of London which is a historic castle located on the banks of the River Thames.

Another landmark filled with history, taking a tour of this attraction will leave you with a plethora of knowledge about England’s history (some of which may leave a rather grim reputation due to rumored events inside the Tower of London!)

7. London Eye

In terms of recent modern architecture to have such an impact on London’s skyline, the London Eye that was constructed at the turn of the 21st century has proven to be an instant success.

Situated on the banks of the Thames overlooking the city of London, taking a ride on the Eye is a perfect way to take in the spectacular views of the city.

8. River Cruises

A cruise along the River Thames is a great way to end a long day of exploring the city of London. Try one of the candlelit dinner cruises that are on offer or just take a trip to see more of London’s favourite attractions.

City Cruises London offer a variety of tours from Greenwich, Tower and Westminster Piers and allow tourists to capture some cherished memories of not only some of the attractions already mentioned here but others such as the Royal Palace of Greenwich.

If cruising down the River Thames does not spark your interest, why not hop on Jason’s Canal Boat tours by taking a unique boat tour passing Lord’s Cricket Ground and Zoo among other attractions along the way.

The tour runs between Little Venice and Camden Lock, where you can alight and take in the famous Camden Markets.

9. Sporting Events

Let’s face it, England loves their sporting events so of course London is no different! Whether the Brits always are successful is debatable but there is a passion level second to none around the world when it comes to sport.

Dependent on when you visit London will determine the sporting events ‘in season’ but if you pick the month of June, England’s capital will be all about Wimbledon. The winter months will see football on the mind’s of everyone but there will likely be something for everyone.

10. Retail Therapy/Shopping

Finally, if after visiting all of these amazing attractions you are still not exhausted, just like every other global city London has an abundance of great shopping options available. For the females reading this article, I am sure you would love to spend some time in Harrods department store but all leading global brands will likely have a base somewhere in downtown London.

But if the mainstream shops are not really your thing, check out some of the local gift/souvenir stores to take home a memory of your time in London!

So there you have our top 10 reasons to visit London, England! What would you add to this list? What are your experiences in England’s capital of the world?

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27 COMMENTS

Love the last one – lol though a lot of retail therapy in London has a way of sending a girl broke!

Very true Megan, and with that it certainly sends a guys credit card into turmoil 🙂

As London natives, number three’s our favourite. It’s great to lose yourself in London streets.

I always find that to be the best attraction in most cities, of course as long as you remain vigilant and remain in relatively safe neighborhoods!

Happy to say that over the years I’ve managed to do all of these! I have to say that number 9 is my favourite though after spending a week camping out at Wimbledon in 2002 (and getting front row tickets nearly every day). I find myself happily doing at least a few of these things every time I go to London though — on the last trip it was a river cruise down to Greenwich!

We had a great time at Wimbledon when we visited there in 2010! We only spent an evening there, getting one of the cheaper grounds tickets that are available after 6PM I believe but it was still a great experience. The river cruises and canal cruises around London are a really worthwhile experience as you get to see a lot of landmarks you may not normally think about checking out!

Perfect timing for this post, as I just arrived in London! Much exploring to do! Thank goodness I brought an umbrella. 🙂

Hope you have a great time exploring London Mandie and of course you are already one step ahead of the crowd as you remembered to bring your good old brolly!

Sporting events, hey Chris? Can’t imagine why you’d enjoy that? Could always take a wander around the Olympic Park or dip in the Olympic Pool (it’s only 3,50 for an hour thanks to the fitness fanatics that lead London City Council).

I would love to try one of the candlelit dinner cruises! The last time I was in London my luggage was lost so I spent the majority of my sight seeing time tracking it down 🙁 I am for sure going back though and doing ALL of the mentioned above!! 🙂

The beauty about London Alli is that even if you have done many of these main touristy attractions, you can always go back and either do them again and get a completely different experience or find something brand new that you didn’t even know existed the last time you visited there! We love spending time in London despite never really seeming to spend long enough there.

Some good suggestions here Chris. I am a history buff and still haven’t got to Windsor Castle! (yet). London is also a mighty fine city for riding a bicycle in. It’s so flat and is a great way to explore the city.

Cheers Andy! We really enjoyed our time at Windsor Castle and it was a perfect way to start exploring London as it is located outside of the main central London area. I could imagine that getting around London on a bike is actually a much better form of transportation than a car especially with the congestion issues that the city has!

Good stuff, I’m going in October so it looks like there is a lot of places for me to check out, love that canal trip, sounds very different

Jason’s Canal Trip really is worth it Noel! You get to see some of the hidden parts of London that are off the so-called beaten path, such as Camden Locks which is a really interesting place to explore especially when the markets are on! Plus if you are interested in learning more about the home of English cricket, take a trip to Lord’s Cricket Ground and take the tour – it’s really a cool experience!

Love this!! I live in Reading which is just to the west of London so I go there a lot!! I do agree with the list but I think you should have included theatre there too (maybe instead of Windsor castle which isn’t In London and a bit unnecessary as you’d already mentioned Buckingham palace!) The theatres of the west end hold some of the most popular plays and musicals in the world, and only Broadway has as good a selection! That being said, I really enjoyed this post and you had a good selection that covered all bases 🙂

I need to go back to London. I was supposed to have three full days in 2012 but thanks to a major flight delay I only got the better part of 2. So much to see!

Can’t wait to go to London and see all of this things! I’ll be there in October for my birthday so it better not rain that much! 😀

Great list!! Well, I only need 1 reason to visit London – Shopping!!! 🙂

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As a Londoner, walking the streets never gets tiring 🙂 So many different places to discover, it’s a never ending joy!

Excellent wrighting, thanks!

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The Tower Of London May Be Known For Its Gruesome History As A Prison And Execution Site, But It's Also Home To The Royal Family's Crown Jewels

When I did a study abroad program in London, England, I remember several people telling me I had to see the Tower of London. It’s considered one of the most infamous attractions in the historic city.

Most people are well aware that the Tower of London is a castle that has functioned as a prison, execution site, etc., but it has a much more complex history than some may realize and is a fascinating piece of history that sits right on the Thames and is visited by millions of visitors every year.

If you don’t know much about the Tower of London, here’s a bit of its history that breaks down its complex past.

The Tower of London’s first structure, the White Tower, was built in 1100 while King William II ruled. Not long after construction on the tower was completed, royals decided to use it as a prison, and monarchs following King William II found several reasons to expand it and build several structures.

Because the Tower of London is known for its more gruesome place in history, being a prison and execution site, some people are surprised to learn that it’s where the royal family’s Crown Jewels are stored.

The Wardrobe Tower, completed in 1199, was designated to hold royal garments and the Crown Jewels of England. Many visitors flee to the tour each year just to see the fascinating jewels and crowns, including the St. Edward’s Crown, worn by all monarchs, including the recent Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III, since the early 1600s.

Today, the Tower of London has 21 towers, each serving a different purpose. It eventually became the ultimate place for incarcerating and torturing criminals who threatened national security.

Interestingly, class played a big role in the treatment of prisoners at the Tower of London. Though it is well known for its horrid treatment of criminals and torture tactics, more wealthy and prominent criminals didn’t have it so bad and lived luxuriously.

Those not so lucky had to suffer the torture that the Tower of London was famous for. If old-fashioned torture techniques fascinate you, the Tower of London should be on your England itinerary.

For instance, one of the most renowned torture tactics was placing prisoners in a confinement cell called “Little Ease,” a cell where no one would be able to fully stand up or lie down, making it impossible to rest or sleep.

Torture was primarily used at the Tower of London for prisoners withholding valuable political information and used as a way to get them to confess. Many historians have stated that executions were more prevalent at the Tower of London.

History’s favorite bad husband, King Henry VIII, notoriously had two of his six wives executed at the Tower of London. First was Anne Boleyn in 1536, who he had executed for adultery and conspiracy against the king. Then, in 1542, he had Catherine Howard, his fifth wife, executed for adultery in 1542.

The last person to be executed by beheading, the most notorious execution technique at the Tower of London, was Simon Fraser for his role in the Scottish Jacobite Rebellion in 1745. It continued to be used as a prison and execution site into the 20th century, including during World War II.

There are a few permanent residents at the Tower of London – ravens! At least six ravens live at the Tower of London at all times, as an old superstition that if there are no more than six ravens on site, the tower will fall is still believed.

There are seven ravens properly cared for by a ‘Ravenmaster’ at the Tower of London to this day, and you may be able to catch a glimpse of them during a tour.

The Tower of London eventually became a site solely for tourism and the home of the Crown Jewels. It’s been maintained and cared for through charities, and tourists can enjoy all kinds of fun tours, from themed tours with actors dressed in medieval costumes to self-guided tours.

If you’ve ever been to London, did you take the time to visit this incredible historical structure?

Mistervlad – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only

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5 Top Reasons to Visit the Tower of London
5 Reasons To Visit The Tower Of London
A Visitor's Guide to the Tower of London
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COMMENTS

5 Top Reasons to Visit the Tower of London
Here are the five top reasons why you should visit the Tower of London: 1. It's an attraction the whole family can enjoy. From adults to young children, the Tower of London can appeal to all age ranges. Adults can't help but be intrigued by the history of the place; from the legend of the murdered Princes to Anne Boleyn's beheading.
8 Fascinating Reasons to Visit the Tower of London
2. The Tower of London was an infamous prison. Probably the most well-known use for the Tower of London. Once upon a time being sent to the Tower was a terrifying affair, often ending in your tortured confession and death on nearby Tower Hill. Visit the Bloody Tower and learn more in the Dungeons.
Visit the Tower of London
What to see on your visit. For your visit to the Tower of London, we recommend at least three hours to discover the iconic castle, including a visit to the Crown Jewels. ... Hold the stories of the Tower of London in your hand and experience history where it really happened with the British Sign Language digital visitor guide. The tour is self ...
Visiting the Tower of London: A Complete Guide for 2024
Regular tickets. As of this post's last update (Summer of 2023), you'll pay the following to visit the Tower of London: £33.60 for adults. £1 for Tower Hamlet residents (adults and kids) £27.70 for groups of 15 or more. £26.80 for disabled visitors (and free for their carer or companion)
13 Things To Know Before Visiting The Tower Of London
Here are two big reasons. First, the Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's associated with some of the most famous moments in English — and by extension, British — history. Second, it's fun. This is a fairly big site with many original historical buildings to explore, each offering something different.
How To Visit the Tower of London in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, And More
The Tower of London is open seven days a week but admission times change according to the season. During the summer season (March 1 - October 30) the visiting hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 9 am to 5:30 pm; Mondays and Sundays, 10 am to 5:30 pm. Final entry is at 4.30 pm.
Visiting the Tower of London 2024: Everything You Need to Know!
If you're visiting London, we think that a visit to the Tower of London should definitely be high on your list of things to do in the city. This is home to one of the oldest intact buildings in London, and has seen a huge amount of history. ... For this reason, we usually recommend that visitors consider either taking a guided tour or using ...
16 Insider Tips for Visiting the Tower of London
The Tower of London's long and colourful history begins with William the Conqueror (r 1066 - 87), who built the White Tower. Although it was built as a fortress and a royal palace - it is one of the greatest European palaces - the Tower of London had several other roles. It was the site of a royal menagerie, the Royal Mint and armouries, and was used to store records of government.
Visiting the Tower of London (FAQs + best tickets & tours)
Cons. You may also need to visit the official Tower of London site for further information. Cost. Standard adult ticket prices also cost from £28.90 when booked via Get Your Guide - but unlike tickets purchased from the official site, these can be cancelled up to a day before if required. How to buy.
Honest Visitor's Guide to the Tower of London (2024)
You'll find the Tower of London on the edge of the Thames River, near Tower Bridge. The exact address is: Tower of London, London, EC3N 4AB. The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner) Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it's worth it) Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct.
Ten reasons every Londoner should visit the Tower of London
10. Make fun of history. Come on, kids, you know a trip to the Tower is a far more interesting way to learn about medieval castles than reading books. Join the Story Scramble - an interactive ...
15 Amazing Things To See and Top Tips for Visiting the Tower of London
The White Tower. The real symbol of the Tower of London is the White Tower. Completed in 1100, it stands proud in the middle of the complex. It was built by William the Conqueror to intimidate & control London. Today, it houses numerous rooms each with their own unique place in history, including the Chapel of St John.
10 tips for a perfect day at the Tower of London
These are my suggestions for a perfect day at the Tower of London. 1) Choose the day well. 2) Arrive early. 3) Buy a membership. 4) Visit the Crown Jewels first. 5) Visit the White Tower next. 6) Follow a Yeoman tour. 7) Visit the Bloody Tower and learn the story of the two princes. 8) Make a tour of the ramparts.
Everything you need to know about: the Tower of London
The Tower of London is a historic, 900-year-old castle and UNESCO World Heritage site located in London, England. When was the Tower of London built? Early foundations, believed to have been a wooden palisade made from timber, were laid in 1066. The White Tower, a keep located in the innermost ward, is the oldest part of the castle and dates ...
5 Reasons To Visit The Tower Of London
An Infamous Prison. The Tower of London was used as a prison from 1100 up until 1952. The Kray twins were the last prisoners to be held there - for failing to turn up for national service. Explore the spaces where famous prisoners were kept and discover the graffiti they left behind 500 years ago. To immerse yourself further into the ...
5 Reasons to Visit the Tower of London
Here are some reasons you should visit the Tower of London: TheBeefeaters, dressed in their traditional colourful uniforms, act as your guides relating equally colourful stories about the history of the Tower. Many tales are rather gruesome, some familiar from school or television but all are fascinating.
Tower of London
The Tower was a royal residence until the 17th century, and from the 13th century to 1834 it housed the Royal Menagerie (the Lion Tower). In the Middle Ages the Tower of London became a prison and place of execution for politically related crimes, with most captives being put to death (murdered or executed) on Tower Green or, outside the castle, in public on Tower Hill.
5 Reasons to Visit the Tower of London
The Tower of London is a definite "must see" on any visit to London, providing a colorful journey into the centuries of history all contained within its immense walls. It is a popular attraction, so don't be surprised at the length of the queue to enter through its gates. To have more time inside, a London Pass can get you a fast and ...
Why You Should Visit the Tower of London
2. You should visit the Tower of London because it's infamous. William the Conqueror built the Tower to show some muscle, and ever since it has been the site of royal tragedy and death. It's been used as a state prison and a place of torture for anyone who didn't please the current monarch.
5 Reasons to Visit The Tower of London
2.The Crown Jewels. There are over 23,000 jewels being safely kept at the Tower of London, all of which belong to the royal family. Over 140 items make up this collection and the total value of these is said to be over £20 billion. This incredible display, kept secure by bomb-proof glass, is truly a sight to behold. 3.
Is London Worth Visiting? 54 Reasons to Visit London
10. The Shard. Another reason London is such a popular destination is its excellent blend of old and new. So, you can experience historical sites, such as the Tower of London, and contemporary and futuristic buildings like the Shard, which at 310 meters is the tallest building in the country.
5 Reasons to Visit the Tower of London
The Tower encompasses a dozen acres in the heart of London. Here are some reasons you should visit the Tower of London: TheBeefeaters, dressed in their traditional colourful uniforms, act as your guides relating equally colourful stories about the history of the Tower. Many tales are rather gruesome, some familiar from school or television but ...
Top 10 Reasons to Visit London
Possibly the most famous of them all is Tower Bridge that is steeped with history since its construction in the late 19th century. 6. Tower of London. By now you will have noticed that London and the surrounding area is full of palaces and royal residences.
The Tower Of London May Be Known For Its Gruesome History As A ...
Today, the Tower of London has 21 towers, each serving a different purpose. It eventually became the ultimate place for incarcerating and torturing criminals who threatened national security.

1. It’s an attraction the whole family can enjoy

2. The Beefeater tours are legendary

3. The Tower of London is a Tudor history hotspot

4. The Tower of London is the home of the Crown Jewels

5. It’s in the heart of London

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8 Fascinating Reasons to Visit the Tower of London

8 Intriguing Reasons to Tour the Tower of London

1. Castles are awesome.

2. The Tower of London was an infamous prison.

3. Money, money, money

4. See the British Crown Jewels up close.

5. Lions and Tigers and Bears!

6. Armor and weapons belong in a castle.

7. Beefeaters are hilarious.

8. Meet the Tower Ravens

Visiting The Tower of London

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13 Things To Know Before Visiting The Tower Of London

1. It’s A Fortress, Not Just A Tower

2. The White Tower Was Built By William The Conqueror

3. It Houses The Crown Jewels

4. It Was Once The Equivalent Of A Luxury Hotel

5. It Served As A Prison For A Variety Of Notable People

6. It Served As A Place Of Execution

7. It’s Still Home To Members Of The Military

8. There Are Seven Resident Ravens

9. It’s Said That Two Young Princes Were Murdered There

10. It Was Once Home To A Variety Of Exotic Animals

11. Visitors Can Experience The 700-Year-Old Ceremony Of The Keys

12. A Visit Is Educational As Well As Entertaining

13. It Houses A Beautiful Chapel

What To Know Before You Go

How To Visit the Tower of London in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, And More

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Tower of London Opening Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:

How Long To Spend at the Tower of London

What To See in the Tower of London

Tower of London Tour Options

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London (3 hours)

Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters (2 hours)

Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters (2 hours)

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London (7 hours)

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Tower of London Opening Times

Summer (1st March – 31st October)

Winter (1st November – 28th February)

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How Much does it Cost to Visit the Tower of London?

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Premium Tower of London Experiences

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What to see and do at the Tower of London

The Tower’s Mint

The Battlements

The Medieval Palace

The Crown Jewels in the Waterloo Barracks

The White Tower

The Bloody Tower

Lower Wakefield Tower

The Fusilier Museum

Tower Green & Scaffold Site