Secrets, swords & sovereigns: Explore the Tower of London's White Tower

The White Tower, a monumental piece of history and architectural marvel, stands majestically at the heart of historic London within the Tower of London complex. As the oldest part of the Tower of London, it was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century to signify Norman power. The White Tower has served as a royal palace, fortress, and prison. Today, it houses an array of displays, including the Royal Armouries collections, offering a glimpse into England's turbulent past. The structure's striking Norman architecture and its long-standing significance in English history make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the royal heritage and architectural grandeur.

History of the Tower of London’s White Tower

The White Tower stands as the original keep of the Tower of London, built by William the Conqueror in the early 1080s. This imposing structure served as the castle's strongest defense, providing lodgings for the king and his court, and housing a dedicated chapel. Construction was overseen by the skilled Bishop of Rochester, Gundulf.

Throughout the centuries, the White Tower witnessed significant transformations. Henry II and Henry III strengthened its defenses, while Henry III further embellished the chapel with stained glass, statues, and paintings, and ordered the entire structure to be whitewashed, giving it its name. Although briefly used as a royal residence, the chapel's gradual transition to store records in the 1320s signaled a decline in its role as a royal residence.

The Tower's history is intertwined with intriguing mysteries. The 1674 discovery of children's bones during the demolition of the forebuilding fueled speculation that they belonged to the ‘Princes in the Tower,’ Edward V and Richard of Shrewsbury. During Elizabeth I's reign, the White Tower became a gunpowder store, while the castle itself began to attract visitors. Charles I's efforts to modernize the Tower's defenses ultimately proved futile as Parliamentarians seized control, marking the onset of the English Civil War of 1642.

The White Tower continued to serve as a gunpowder store until the Great Fire of London in 1666, after which a protective wall was erected. In the 19th century, significant alterations were made to accommodate the growing number of visitors. Today, the Tower of London, including the magnificent White Tower, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, managed by Historic Royal Palaces, and houses the renowned Royal Armouries collections.

Architecture of the White Tower 

The White Tower, a symbol of Norman power, stands as one of the largest keeps in Christendom. Its imposing presence, believed to be inspired by the 11th-century Château d'Ivry-la-Bataille, once housed the English monarch.

Architecturally, the Tower exhibits a blend of Norman and later additions. Corner towers, square at the west and round at the northeast, provide defensive strength. The southeast corner features a prominent semi-circular projection, accommodating the chapel's apse. Measuring 36 by 32 meters at its base and soaring 27 meters high, the original structure comprised three stories. The forebuilding added in the 12th century no longer survives. 

Constructed primarily from Kentish rag-stone and local mudstone, the Tower's exterior once boasted Caen stone facing, largely replaced by Portland stone during 17th and 18th-century renovations by architect Inigo Jones. Inside, each floor was divided into three chambers: a grand hall in the west, a smaller room in the northeast, and St. John's Chapel towards the southeast.

The ground floor, originally an undercroft for storage, underwent significant alterations in the 18th century. The first floor housed the grand hall and a residential chamber, while the top floor, added in the 15th century, provided additional space and supported the current roof. 17th-century modifications included the installation of lead cisterns atop the structure.

Tips for visiting the White Tower

• For history buffs: Dig beyond armor suits! Find the inscription marking Henry VIII's failed escape attempt hidden near the Bloody Tower door.
• For thrill-seekers: Descend into the Traitor's Gate after dark. Hear whispers of executions as you walk on the same ground as beheaded queens.
• For art lovers: Seek out the medieval graffiti etched on the White Tower walls. These hidden messages offer glimpses into the lives of long-gone prisoners.
• For those interested in local lore: Join a Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) tour, led by costumed guards with insider stories and quirky jokes. Their historical anecdotes bring the Tower to life.
• Best time to visit: For a less crowded experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning. Avoid weekends and school holidays if possible. Visiting during the off-season (winter months) can also help you avoid large crowds.
• What not to miss: Explore the Chapel of St John and its medieval graffiti, see the Royal Armouries collection from across the ages, and climb to the top to enjoy panoramic views of the Tower of London and the surrounding area.