What is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London, officially known as His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames. It is located in central London, England.

Located in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, it is separated from the eastern edge of the City of London by the open space known as Tower Hill. This iconic site has been a fortress, royal palace, and infamous prison.

A Brief History Tower of London

It was founded towards the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest. The White Tower, which gives the entire castle its name, was built by William the Conqueror in 1078. At first, it was a symbol of oppression by the new Norman rulers over London.

The Tower was used as a prison from 1100 until 1952, with notable prisoners like the Kray twins. However, it wasn't always a prison. In its early days, it was a grand palace and served as a royal residence.

The Tower complex consists of several buildings surrounded by two rings of defensive walls and a moat. Kings Richard I, Henry III, and Edward I expanded the Tower in the 12th and 13th centuries, creating the layout that still stands today.

The Tower's primary design was to intimidate and control the local population and to deter foreign invaders. Over the centuries, it gained a reputation as a grim state prison, especially during the Tudor era. During this time, it was the site of many notable executions, including those of Henry VIII's wives Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. It was also the location of the mysterious disappearance of the Princes in the Tower, Edward V, and his brother Richard, Duke of York.

The Tower of London also played a significant role in England's history as a royal palace and a stronghold. It held prisoners, stored munitions, and housed the crown jewels. Today, the Tower consists of a series of defensive structures, walls, and buildings spanning an area of 12 acres. The innermost part, where you find the White Tower, is surrounded by the inner ward, outer ward, and a moat.

Things to See Tower of London

Crown Jewels

The Crown Jewels are a stunning collection of royal items worn by British kings and queens during their crowning ceremonies. You’ll find these treasures in the Jewel House at the Tower of London. They include the Imperial State Crown, the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, and the Sovereign's Orb.

These jewels symbolize the power and tradition of the British monarchy. Seeing them up close gives you a real sense of the grandeur and history of the royal family, making it one of the Tower’s top attractions.

The White Tower

The White Tower is the oldest part of the Tower of London, built by William the Conqueror in 1078. This impressive building was once a royal home and a symbol of Norman strength. Inside, you’ll find the Royal Armouries, including Henry VIII’s famous armor.

The White Tower’s thick walls and medieval design show off the military power of the past. Today, you can explore its historic rooms and exhibits to learn about the Tower’s role in England’s eventful history.

Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula

The Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula is a historic church inside the Tower of London, built-in 1520. It’s the burial place for many famous people executed at the Tower, including Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, two of Henry VIII’s wives. The chapel’s peaceful atmosphere contrasts with its tragic history, offering a place to reflect. Its beautiful architecture and moving memorials make it an important spot for understanding the Tower’s role in England’s political and religious changes.

The Battlements

The battlements of the Tower of London are the defensive walls and 13 towers that once protected the castle. These towers, like the Bell Tower, Beauchamp Tower, and Bloody Tower, show off medieval military design. Walking along the battlements, you can explore small exhibits that tell the Tower’s history, such as the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 and the Tower’s time as a royal zoo. The battlements also offer great views of the River Thames and London’s skyline, making them a must-see part of the Tower.

The Medieval Palace

The Medieval Palace inside the Tower of London shows how medieval kings and queens lived. It includes the St. Thomas’s Tower, Wakefield Tower, and Lanthorn Tower. These buildings were part of the royal home and featured beautifully restored rooms with replicas of medieval furniture.

You can see the King’s bedroom, the medieval kitchen, and other rooms set up to look like they did in the past. The palace’s historical significance and immersive displays make it a fascinating attraction.

The Bloody Tower

The Bloody Tower, originally called the Garden Tower, is famous for its dark history. It’s known for the mysterious disappearance of the Princes in the Tower, Edward V, and his brother Richard, Duke of York, in the late 15th century. The tower also held high-profile prisoners like Sir Walter Raleigh. Today, you can explore exhibits about the tower’s history and the theories surrounding the princes’ fate, making it a compelling and eerie part of the Tower complex.

Torture at the Tower Exhibition

The Torture at the Tower exhibition gives you a glimpse into the Tower of London’s grim past as a prison and torture site. This exhibit shows the tools used, like the rack and the Scavenger’s Daughter, and tells the stories of those who suffered here. It highlights how the Tower was used to extract confessions and punish prisoners. The exhibition is both fascinating and unsettling, offering a stark reminder of the brutal methods once employed within the Tower’s walls.

The Beefeaters and the Ravens

The Beefeaters, or Yeoman Warders, are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London, known for their distinctive uniforms. They conduct tours and share the Tower’s history with visitors. According to legend, the ravens of the Tower are guardians, and if they ever leave, the kingdom will fall.

These large black birds are a symbolic and integral part of the Tower’s lore. Meeting the Beefeaters and seeing the ravens adds a unique and mythical element to any visit. It connects modern tourists with centuries-old traditions.

Fusiliers Museum

The Fusiliers Museum is dedicated to the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, showcasing its history from its formation in 1685 to the present day. Located within the Tower of London, the museum features an extensive collection of uniforms, medals, weapons, and memorabilia. Visitors can learn about the regiment’s significant battles, including Waterloo and the World Wars.

The museum highlights the bravery and sacrifices of the Fusiliers. It is an important stop for those interested in military history and the Tower’s ongoing connection to the British Army.

The Royal Mint Exhibition

The Royal Mint exhibition at the Tower of London delves into the history of coin production in Britain. Established in 1279, the Mint operated within the Tower for over 500 years, producing most of the nation’s coins. The exhibition explores the minting process, the lives of the workers, and the economic history of England.

Interactive displays and historical artifacts make the experience engaging and educational. This exhibition offers a unique perspective on the Tower’s multifaceted history, highlighting its role in the country’s financial and industrial development.

Tickets and Prices

Explore London’s iconic castle.

• Members: Free
• Adult: £34.80
• Child age 5-15: £17.40

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

Opening Times

The Tower of London is open every day of the year, except for December 24th, 25th, and 26th, and January 1st.

Tower of London Tours

Skip-The-Line Tickets

Avoid long waits and get direct access to the Tower of London’s main attractions with skip-the-line tickets. These tickets save you time and let you enjoy more of what the Tower has to offer.

Small Group Tour

Experience the Tower of London in an intimate setting with a small group tour. These tours offer a more personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides providing detailed insights into the Tower’s history.

Private Tours

For a bespoke experience, consider a private tour of this Unesco world heritage site. With a private guide, you can explore the Tower at your own pace, focusing on the aspects that interest you most.

Final Thougts

So, is the visit to the Tower of London worth it? Absolutely. From its rich history and stunning architecture to the Crown Jewels and unique exhibits, the Tower of London offers an unforgettable experience.

Whether you explore on your own or take a guided tour, this iconic landmark provides a fascinating journey through England’s past. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit one of the world’s most famous castles.