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Tower of London
Icon Steeped in history and somber, yet bustling with public activity.
Photo: Bob Collowan, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Bob Collowan, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Carlos Cunha, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Oleg Yunakov, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Matt Brown, CC BY 4.0
Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom
Photos
Photo: Bob Collowan, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Carlos Cunha, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Oleg Yunakov, CC BY-SA 4.0
Interesting facts
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At least six ravens are kept at the Tower at all times, as legend dictates that the kingdom will fall if they leave.
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The White Tower was originally built using Caen stone imported from Normandy, France.
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The Tower once functioned as a royal menagerie, housing lions, polar bears, and elephants presented as diplomatic gifts.
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The Crown Jewels contain over 23,500 gemstones, including the Cullinan I diamond in the Sovereign's Sceptre.
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During the Second World War, the Tower served as a prisoner-of-war camp, famously holding Rudolf Hess.
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The 'Ceremony of the Keys' has taken place every night for over 700 years to secure the fortress.
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The White Tower’s walls are up to 15 feet thick at the base.
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Many Yeoman Warders live within the Tower walls with their families.
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The fortress was never successfully taken by force throughout its primary defensive history.
Overview
The Tower of London is a historic castle and fortress founded by William the Conqueror in 1066. It serves as the official home of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, which remain in active use by the monarchy. The complex consists of multiple concentric defensive walls, towers, and the central White Tower. Historically used as a royal palace, armory, treasury, and prison, it has housed significant figures including Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes. It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is protected by the Yeoman Warders, who also conduct guided tours of the grounds. The Waterloo Barracks houses the current exhibition of the regalia. The site includes the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula, the final resting place of several executed historical figures.
Photo spot
The path looking back toward the White Tower with Tower Bridge in the background.
Insider tips
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Join a tour led by a Yeoman Warder as soon as you enter to get an overview of the site's history.
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Visit the Crown Jewels display early or late in your visit to minimize wait times in the queue.
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Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the site features uneven cobblestone paths.
What to avoid
Do not wait until the final hour of the day to arrive, as many interior exhibits have last-entry times that differ from the general site closing.
Good to know
The Tower is typically closed for a period during the Christmas holidays.
Etiquette
Respect the site as a functioning memorial and site of execution; maintain quiet behavior in the Chapel Royal.
Video
Plan your visit
- Key exhibits
- The Crown Jewels, The White Tower Armouries, The Bloody Tower
- Architectural style
- Norman Romanesque
Frequently asked
How long should I spend at Tower of London?
Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit is Weekday mornings, particularly during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, to avoid peak school holiday crowds..
What's the best photo spot?
The path looking back toward the White Tower with Tower Bridge in the background.
What else is nearby?
Close by you'll find Tower Bridge, Sky Garden, London Bridge.
