Tower of London
The Tower of London is a castle, royal palace and former prison on the north bank of the Thames, founded after the Norman Conquest and listed as a World Heritage Site in 1988. Your ticket covers the Crown Jewels, the White Tower and Yeoman Warder tours, so allow at least half a day.
Photos
Katalin Orbán (nilatako)
Nearly a thousand years of history
The Tower was founded at the end of 1066, and William the Conqueror began the White Tower, its great Norman keep, around 1078. Later kings added walls, towers and the water-gate now known as Traitors' Gate, built under Edward I. It has served as fortress, palace, armoury and prison. Yeoman Warders have served as royal bodyguards since at least 1509.
What to see
The Crown Jewels have been displayed in the Jewel House in the Waterloo Block since 1994; allow about an hour. The White Tower is included too. Yeoman Warders lead regular tours from the morning onwards, full of stories, and at least six ravens live within the walls, looked after by the Ravenmaster. Traitors' Gate, the river entrance once used for prisoners, is visible from inside the walls.
Planning your visit
Book tickets online and arrive early, heading for the Crown Jewels first before queues build. Join a Yeoman Warder tour as an introduction, then explore at your own pace. Afterwards, walk across Tower Bridge, or head to the Sky Garden for city views. The nightly Ceremony of the Keys needs separate advance booking. Family trails are available for children.
Highlights
- The Crown Jewels in the Jewel House
- The Norman White Tower
- Yeoman Warder tours included with admission
- The Tower ravens
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
Good to know
- Yeoman Warder tours are included in admission and run regularly through the day.
- Allow around an hour for the Crown Jewels alone.
- The Ravens experience talk and the Ceremony of the Keys must be booked separately in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: hrp.org.uk · en.wikipedia.org