Unlock the Tower's secrets with insider tips! Discover the best times to visit, beat the queues, and delve into history without missing the crown jewels. Learn about exclusive tours and hidden gems to maximize your experience. From avoiding crowds to must-see exhibits, these Tower of London tips ensure an unforgettable visit

Top 10 Tower of London travel tips & hacks

1. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon

The Tower of London can get very crowded, especially during peak season. To avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The Tower opens at 9am and closes at 5:30pm, but the last admission is at 4:30pm.

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2. Take a free Beefeater tour

The Beefeaters, or Yeoman Warders, are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London. They have been giving tours of the Tower for over 700 years. Beefeater tours are free and start every 30 minutes from the White Tower. The tours last about an hour and are a great way to learn about the Tower's history and secrets.

3. See the Crown Jewels before anything else

The Crown Jewels are one of the most popular attractions at the Tower of London. To avoid the crowds, head to the Jewel House first thing in the morning. The Jewel House is located in the Waterloo Barracks and is open from 10am to 5pm.

Best Time to Visit Tower of London

4. Walk the outer perimeter wall

The Tower of London has a long and winding outer perimeter wall. Walking the wall is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy stunning views of the Tower and the surrounding area. The wall is open from 10am to 5pm, but the last admission is at 4:30pm.

5. Visit the Tower during a special event

The Tower of London hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as the Ceremony of the Keys and the Tower of London Gun Salutes. Visiting the Tower during a special event is a great way to experience the Tower in a unique way. To find out more about upcoming special events, visit the Tower of London website.

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6. Visit the Bloody Tower during the off-season

The Bloody Tower is one of the most popular attractions at the Tower of London, but it can be very crowded, especially during peak season. To avoid the crowds, visit the Bloody Tower during the off-season (November to February). The Bloody Tower is open from 10am to 5pm, but the last admission is at 4:30pm.

7. See the White Tower after the Crown Jewels

The White Tower is the oldest building in the Tower of London and is home to the Royal Armouries. It is less crowded than the Jewel House, so you can take your time and explore the exhibits. The White Tower is open from 10am to 5pm, but the last admission is at 4:30pm.

8. Take a boat tour to the Tower of London

Arriving at the Tower of London by boat is a unique and scenic way to start your visit. There are a number of different boat tours available, including Thames River Cruises and City Cruises. The boat tours depart from various locations in London, and the journey to the Tower of London takes about 30 minutes.

9. Have lunch or dinner at the Tower of London

There are a few different dining options available at the Tower of London, including the New Armouries Cafe, the Bloody Tower Restaurant, and the Tower Vaults. The New Armouries Cafe is a casual cafe that serves a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks. The Bloody Tower Restaurant is a more formal restaurant that serves traditional British cuisine. The Tower Vaults is a unique dining experience that takes place in the Tower's historic vaults.

10. Take a walk along the Tower Bridge

The Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in London. It is located just a short walk from the Tower of London. Taking a walk along the Tower Bridge is a great way to enjoy stunning views of the Tower and the River Thames.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tower of London tips & hacks

When should I visit the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. The summer months can be very hot and crowded, especially during the school holidays.

What are some helpful tips I should know before visiting Tower of London?

Book your tickets in advance; wear comfortable shoes; be prepared for the crowds; there's a lot to see and do at the Tower of London, so take your time and enjoy your visit.

How can I visit the Tower of London on a budget?

Here are some tips for visiting the Tower of London on a budget: Buy a combined ticket; take advantage of free activities; and pack your own lunch.

Is there anything I should avoid carrying with me when I visit the Tower of London?

The following items are not allowed inside the Tower of London: Large bags and backpacks, suitcases, tripods, food and drinks (except bottled water), and weapons

What facilities are present at the Tower of London?

Restrooms, cafes and restaurants, a gift shop, audio guides, and wheelchair access.

Can I shop at the Tower of London?

Yes, there is a gift shop at the Tower of London where you can purchase souvenirs, such as books, clothing, and jewelry.

Is there a restroom at the Tower of London?

Yes, there are restrooms at the Tower of London. They are located throughout the site, including near the main entrance, the Crown Jewels, and the White Tower.

Should I go on a guided tour of the Tower of London?

Guided tours can be a great way to learn more about the history and architecture of the Tower of London. They are also a good way to avoid the crowds.

Should I get skip-the-line tickets to the Tower of London?

Skip-the-line tickets can be a good way to avoid the crowds, especially during the peak season. However, they are more expensive than standard entry tickets.