Built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London has been a great many things in its more than 900 years of existence — royal court, mint, treasury, armoury, menagerie and of course, prison.
On the bank of the river Thames, The Tower of London stands proudly as one of the most iconic buildings in the city. This medieval fortress includes twelve separate towers, each with its own fascinating history and displays to explore. The Yeoman Warders stand guard throughout the fortress, and are always happy to regale visitors with tales of its colourful past. Amongst their ranks, the Ravenmaster is in charge of caring for the tower's seven ravens, which reside in the Wakefield Tower and. according to legend. must remain on the grounds or the castle and monarchy will fall. Every night, the Chief Yeoman Warder perform part of the Ceremony of the Keys at exactly 9:53pm, and tickets to watch this impressive display can be booked in advance. Make sure to visit the Crown Jewels on display in The Martin Tower, once known as The Jewel House, and marvel at the priceless collection of the British monarchy. Amongst the stunning treasures on display you will see the coronation crown of Queen Elizabeth II and the Sceptre of the Cross and the Sceptre of the Dove, which must be held in each hand by the Sovereign during the crowning at their coronation.
Those interested in the colourful history of London can wander the halls of this medieval fortress where Elizabeth I, Sir Walter Raleigh, Guy Fawkes and even the notorious gangsters, the Krays, have all been held captive over the centuries. Ghosts are reputed to roam the grounds, including Anne Boleyn, executed here in 1536, and the “Princes of the Tower” - young heirs to the throne whose disappearance in suspicious circumstances around 1483 led to a part of the castle being nicknamed ‘the Bloody Tower’.
A visit to the Tower of London is essentially a must for any visitor to the city, and with so much to see, there is sure to be something to catch everyone’s attention.
You may stay as long as you like during opening hours. We recommend allowing for at least two hours to get the most out of this experience.
How to Get There:
Once booked, tickets will not be refunded.