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- Tower of London
- History
- Inside
- Highlights
- Beefeater Tour
- Fusilier Museum
- Visitor Facilities
- White Tower
- Crown Jewels
- Prison
- Christmas
- Christmas in London
- London Theatre Tickets
- Harry Potter London Tours
- London Eye
- Madame Tussauds London
- Westminster Abbey
- London To Windsor Castle Tours
- Up At The O2 Climb
- SEA LIFE London Aquarium
- London To Stonehenge Tours
- Buckingham Palace
- Tower Bridge
- The Shard
- Frameless London
- St. Paul's Cathedral
- Kew Gardens
- Hampton Court Palace
- Downton Abbey
- Churchill War Rooms
Contents
All You Need to Know About the Tower of London
Discover centuries of history at the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From royal palace to prison, this iconic fortress holds the crown jewels and has witnessed pivotal events in British h...
Quick Information
Plan your visitDid you know?
The Tower of London has served as a royal menagerie, housing exotic animals like lions, elephants, and polar bears.
The crown jewels held at the Tower of London are so valuable that they cannot be insured, making them truly priceless.
The White Tower, the central building of the Tower of London, has walls that are up to 15 feet thick and were built using over 70,000 tons of limestone.
Tower of London Tickets and Tours
Plan your visit to Tower of London
Opening hours
Getting there
- Tower of London
Timings: 9am - 5:30pm (On some Sundays and Mondays it opens at 10am)
Last admission: 3:30pm
- The Wharf
Timings: 7am - 7pm, everyday
Note: The Wharf closes on days when there are gun salutes.
- Gun Salutes
Gun salutes take place at 1:00 PM, with the Wharf closing at least an hour prior. Upcoming gun salute dates include:
His Majesty The King's Birthday: 14 November 2024
- Closed on: 24th to 26th December and 1st January
- Best time to visit: For an enjoyable experience, consider visiting early in the morning, especially between June and September, when the weather is at its finest and crowds are lighter.
Address: London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom
The Tower of London is located on the northern bank of the River Thames, near the eastern edge of the City of London.
Closest landmark: Tower Bridge (0.3 km)
Things to do at Tower of London
Each section of the Tower of London offers unique insights into the history and culture of England.
Explore the White Tower
The White Tower has stood tall since 1078, showcasing incredible architecture and centuries' worth of intriguing stories. Once a royal residence and prison for figures like Anne Boleyn, it now houses impressive armor and the Crown Jewels exhibition.
Tower of London White TowerCheck out the Royal Mint exhibition
Curious about coins? The Royal Mint Exhibition takes you through 500 years of minting history! With interactive displays and rare artifacts from the Royal Mint Museum, you'll also learn about the lives of mint workers, including Sir Isaac Newton's legendary fight against counterfeiters.
Walk around the Tower Green
Take a stroll around Tower Green, where history gets intense! This quiet grassy spot at the Tower of London was once the stage for famous executions, including Anne Boleyn's. You'll even spot the scaffold site where all the drama went down!
Admire the Medieval Palace
Ready for a royal time travel? The Medieval Palace takes you through the 13th and 14th centuries, featuring must-sees like the King's Bedchamber, Wakefield Tower, and the Chapel of St. John the Evangelist.
Learn the history of the Bloody Tower
The Bloody Tower has quite a dark history! It's tucked on the south side of the Inner Ward, and it's where the infamous Princes in the Tower were imprisoned—and maybe even murdered. Creepy, right?
Stop by the Beauchamp Tower
The Beauchamp Tower, built between 1275 and 1281, housed important prisoners like Lady Jane Grey. Their legacy? Graffiti! The walls are filled with messages, symbols, and carvings made by those who endured captivity, making it a unique historical snapshot.
Who built the Tower of London?
The Tower of London is like a 900-year-old time capsule of history and architecture.
- It all started with William the Conqueror, who built the iconic White Tower in 1078, a perfect example of Norman military architecture.
- Then came Richard the Lionheart, who added the inner ward with its rounded Gothic windows and arches.
- Henry III gave it a royal upgrade, adding the outer ward and setting up shop for the Crown Jewels.
- Finally, Edward I threw in some infamous additions like the Bloody Tower and Tower Green.
Each monarch left their mark, creating the Tower's unique blend of styles—it's practically a medieval architectural scrapbook!
More about Tower of London
Tower of London—UNESCO World Heritage Site
Did you know the Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? It earned this prestigious designation in 1988, shining a spotlight on its incredible value to humanity. This recognition highlights the Tower's rich history as a symbol of royal power and its stunning Norman military architecture, which has stood the test of time.
But it's not just about looks! The Tower is a significant cultural landmark, witnessing major events in English history, like the imprisonment and execution of iconic figures such as Anne Boleyn and Sir Thomas More. Thanks to its World Heritage status, the Tower of London will be preserved for future generations to appreciate and enjoy, ensuring its legacy continues to inspire awe.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tower of London
How much time should you set aside for your visit to the Tower?
Most visitors find that 3 to 4 hours is ideal for thoroughly exploring all the fascinating attractions and soaking in the site's rich history.
What's the story behind the Crown Jewels?
The Crown Jewels have been part of the Tower since 1303. They showcase a stunning collection of crowns, scepters, and other royal regalia that symbolize the monarchy's power and heritage.
Is it safe to visit the Tower of London?
Yes, it is safe to visit the Tower of London. The attraction has implemented several safety measures to ensure the well-being of its visitors and staff. These measures include timed entry, capacity limits, social distancing protocols, and enhanced cleaning procedures.
What's the best outfit for your visit?
Opt for comfortable footwear, as you'll navigate uneven surfaces and cover some ground while exploring the site.
Can I bring my bag or backpack inside?
Large bags aren't allowed inside, so be sure to use the designated storage areas outside for your belongings.
What was Isaac Newton's role at the Tower?
In the late 17th century, Isaac Newton held the positions of Warden and later Master of the Royal Mint, which was located within the Tower. His work there was pivotal in reforming the currency and combating counterfeiting.
How can I get to the Tower of London?
The Tower of London is located in central London and is easily accessible by public transportation. You can take the tube, bus, train or riverboat. It is recommended to use public transportation or walk as parking in the area is limited.
