In the middle of London, a stone’s throw from the Walkie-Talkie, stands an imposing stone fortress built by William the Conqueror almost 1000 years ago. To walk the Tower’s grounds is to step – along cobbled pathways, past parapets – into another time. In many ways, the Tower tells the nation’s story. Officially His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, it’s now a protected World Heritage Site.
In Medieval England, the Tower of London was a palace or prison, depending on your fortunes and which side of the Bloody Tower’s walls you found yourself. Today, it’s a fun family day out. Millions of wildflowers cover the moat in summertime, and it attracts over 3 million visitors yearly.
Considering a visit? Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know before planning your trip to the Tower of London.
The Tower of London is in Central London near Tower Bridge, on the north bank of the River Thames. The address is: London EC3N 4AB.
Things to do at the Tower of London
There’s plenty to see and do at the Tower of London. Discover the history of the Royal Armoury hands-on, wielding swords and firearms. Marvel at the spectacular Norman architecture of the White Tower and St John’s Chapel. Explore the Tower’s fortress, peer over the battlements and peek through the arrow slits. Catch a glimpse of Britain’s history through tours, events and exhibitions.
Tickets
Entry to the palace is ticketed and includes access to free activities, guided tours and exhibitions. Reserve your ticket and entry time online from Historic Royal Palaces or at the ticket office on the day.
Cost: Adult entry costs £33.60, child tickets (5-15) cost £16.80 and children under 4 go free. Concession tickets are also available for students, groups, seniors and disabled visitors.
The Crown Jewels
The Crown Jewels have been displayed at the Tower of London since 1661 (nearly 400 years)! They hold the Imperial State Crown, worn after the coronation, which is decorated with over 3,000 precious gemstones.
Visiting the jewels is alluring, but their legends captivate. Labels explain their weird and wonderful origins. Like the story of the Black Prince's "Ruby" (which is not a ruby) and the strange tale of St Edward's Sapphire, which was gifted to a beggar who turned out to be John the Evangelist (supposedly).
The Crown Jewels comprise around 140 sacred objects, including crowns, orbs and sceptres, most of which only ever leave the Tower for formal ceremonies. See them up close in the Jewel House.
Yeoman Warder Tours
Yeoman Warders are the Tower’s guards and Britain’s oldest military corps. You’ve probably seen them at state occasions like coronations and weddings, dressed in fancy scarlet tunics with gold trim, scarlet stockings and a black ‘Tudor bonnet’ (somewhere between a top hat, a pork pie hat and a chef’s hat). This traditional state dress has remained largely unchanged since Tudor times, albeit now freshly adorned with HM King Charles III’s royal cypher. On daily duties, they wear the more muted dark blue, red trim uniform – but it’s just as fancy.
Henry VIII introduced the Yeoman Warders to the Tower. Today, palace admission grants you a free Yeoman Warder tour of the grounds. What better way to discover the Tower’s history than in the words of its guards? Plus, unlike the straight-faced Royal Guards at Buckingham Palace, Yeoman Warders are allowed a sense of humour, so tours are often funny and informative!
The Tower Exhibition
The Tower hosts regular exhibitions showcasing different aspects of its rich history. Prepare to be shocked, stunned and horrified. History buffs won’t want to miss the latest exhibitions, like Torture at the Tower, which explores the dark and disturbing torture practices of the 16th and 17th centuries.
You’ll see replica torture instruments, including manacles (chains worn around the wrists and ankles), the rack (a device that pulls the victim’s limbs out of their sockets) and the scavenger’s daughter (we’ll leave that one to you…).
Best of all? Entry fee includes access to exhibitions, so they’re free!
Ceremony of the Keys
For centuries, the Tower Guard has performed an ancient trio of daily practices: the Ceremonial Opening, the Ceremony of the Word and the Ceremony of the Keys.
During the Ceremony of the Keys, the gates to the tower are locked. This elaborate routine has gone on for at least 700 years, making it one of the oldest existing military ceremonies in the world.
The Tower now holds select members-only open ceremonies so that you can witness the historic gate-closing ritual in person. Book online now to secure your ticket.
Things to do near the Tower of London
There’s no shortage of things to do near the Tower of London. If you’re not yet done exploring the capital’s historical landmarks, head to St Paul’s Cathedral for a guided tour of this iconic 17th-century landmark. Or book a boat trip and soak up the city skyline while sailing the Thames. Feeling peckish? Nearby Borough Market is one of the best food markets in London, serving various street food from around the world.
Tips for enjoying the Tower of London
- The Tower of London is open 9:00 – 17:30 from Tuesday to Saturday and 10:00 – 17:30 on Sundays and Mondays.
- Wear appropriate footwear, as the Tower’s worn surfaces can be uneven and slippery.
- Leave large bags at home as there are no luggage facilities, but buggy parks are provided.
Food and drink
The New Armouries Café is an excellent option for families. It offers a range of classics, such as soups, salads and sandwiches. If you’re up early, it also serves breakfast – so pop in for a coffee and a croissant before your tour.
Outdoors, try the Ravens Café for tasty treats like hot dogs and cakes, perfect for snacking on the go. If you fancy a drink, the Tower of London Café offers snacks to enjoy with an alcoholic beverage by the riverside.
Places to stay around the Tower of London
If you’re looking for budget-friendly hotels near the Tower of London, Premier Inn London City, just around the corner, is an excellent option. Holiday Inn Whitechapel and hub by Premier Inn London City Bank Hotel are both nearby and offer remarkable comfort for families.
Don’t forget you can enjoy great savings when booking directly with us through SWR Rewards.
Places to stay around the Tower of London
Visitors with limited mobility should be aware that this historic building has many stairs and doorways that are not wheelchair accessible. However, wheelchair ramps can be found at the New Armouries Café and near the Raven shop.
Disabled visitors are welcome to bring a carer free of charge; simply book a carer ticket online or on the day at the ticket office. Induction loops are available for deaf or hard-of-hearing visitors, and sign-language tours are also offered.
For more information, visit the Tower of London’s accessibility page.
