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Contents
About the Tower of London | A fortress, a palace, a prison
Get ready for a trip back in time at the Tower of London! This historic fortress, founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, has seen it all—from being a royal palace to a prison. Wander through the majestic grounds, appreciate the beauty of the Cr...
Founded On
1097
Founded By
William the Conqueror
Quick Information
ADDRESS
London EC3N 4AB, UK
RECOMMENDED DURATION
3 hours
VISITORS PER YEAR
2000000
TICKETS
From £ 35.80
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
1-2 hours (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
UNESCO YEAR
1988
Did you know?
The Tower of London has served as a royal menagerie, housing exotic animals like lions, elephants, and polar bears.
The crown jewels held at the Tower of London are so valuable that they cannot be insured, making them truly priceless.
The White Tower, the central building of the Tower of London, has walls that are up to 15 feet thick and were built using over 70,000 tons of limestone.
Tower of London tickets and tours
Plan your visit to Tower of London
Opening hours
Getting there
- Tower of London
Timings: 9am - 5:30pm (On some Sundays and Mondays, it opens at 10am)
Last admission: 3:30pm - The Wharf
Timings: 7am - 7pm, everyday
Note: The Wharf closes on days when there are gun salutes. - Gun Salutes
Gun salutes take place at 1pm, with the Wharf closing at least an hour prior. Upcoming gun salute dates include the King’s official birthday (June 15), the Queen’s birthday (July 17), accession day (September 8), the King's birthday (November 14), and the State Opening of the Parliament. - Closed on: December 24 to 26 and January 1
Best time to visit: For an enjoyable experience, consider visiting early in the morning, especially between June and September, when the weather is at its finest and crowds are lighter.
Address: London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom
The Tower of London is located on the northern bank of the River Thames, near the eastern edge of the city of London.
Closest landmark: Tower Bridge (0.3 km)
Things to do at the Tower of London
Each section of the Tower of London offers unique insights into the history and culture of England.
Explore the White Tower
A fortress of time, the White Tower has stood strong since 1078. Its imposing architecture and history have captivated visitors for centuries. From royal residence to infamous prison, its walls have echoed with the footsteps of kings, queens, and notorious figures like Anne Boleyn. Now, it proudly displays a collection of armor and the world-renowned Crown Jewels.
About the White TowerCheck out the Royal Mint exhibition
Uncover the secrets of money-making! The Royal Mint Exhibition takes you on a 500-year journey through the fascinating world of minting. Explore interactive displays and rare artifacts, and learn about the lives of the people behind the coins. Did you know Sir Isaac Newton was once a Master of the Mint, fighting counterfeiters and protecting the nation's wealth?
Walk around the Tower Green
Dare to walk where history was made. Tower Green, a serene green space within the Tower of London, hides a dark and dramatic past. This tranquil spot was once the stage for infamous executions, including that of Anne Boleyn. You can even pinpoint the exact location of the scaffold, where these tragic events unfolded.
Admire the Medieval Palace
The Medieval Palace offers a glimpse into the lives of royalty in the 13th and 14th centuries. Wander through the King's Bedchamber, the mighty Wakefield Tower, an imposing fortress, once used as a prison for high-profile prisoners, and the historic Chapel of St. John the Evangelist, where royal ceremonies once took place.
Learn the history of the Bloody Tower
The Bloody Tower, a sinister structure within the Tower of London, is steeped in one of history's most enduring mysteries. Here, the young Princes in the Tower, Edward V and his brother Richard, Duke of York, vanished without a trace. Many believe that the princes were murdered on the orders of their uncle, a dark deed that forever tarnished Richard III's reputation.
Stop by the Beauchamp Tower
The Beauchamp Tower, a medieval fortress, gives us a glimpse into the lives of some of history's most infamous inmates. With nothing but time on their hands, they started to scratch messages, symbols, and their names into the stone. One of the most famous prisoners was Lady Jane Grey, a young queen who was imprisoned and eventually executed.
Who built the Tower of London?
The Tower of London has stood for over nine centuries. Its evolution, shaped by various monarchs, reflects the changing architectural styles and political landscapes of the time.
- 1078: William the Conqueror commissioned the construction of the White Tower. This set the foundation for the Tower's future.
- 12th century: Richard the Lionheart expanded the Tower's inner ward, introducing rounded Gothic arches and windows.
- 13th century: Henry III undertook significant renovations, transforming the Tower into a royal palace. He added the outer ward, a fortified enclosure that housed the royal mint, armory, and other important buildings. This period also saw the construction of the opulent St. Thomas' Tower.
- Late 13th century: Edward I further fortified the Tower, adding the infamous Bloody Tower and Tower Green.
More about the Tower of London
Tower of London—UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, is a testament to English history and architecture. Originally conceived as a Norman fortress, the Tower's imposing White Tower, completed in 1100, stands as a symbol of royal power and military might. Its sturdy walls and strategic location have witnessed centuries of history, from royal residences and prisons to armories and mints.
The Tower's dramatic past is intertwined with the lives of iconic figures. Anne Boleyn, the ill-fated wife of Henry VIII, and Sir Thomas More, the renowned statesman and martyr, were among the many who faced imprisonment and execution within its walls.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tower of London is committed to preserving its heritage for future generations. Through careful conservation and restoration efforts, the Tower's historic fabric is being protected.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tower of London
What is included in the Tower of London admission ticket?
Your ticket grants access to the Crown Jewels exhibition, the White Tower, the Medieval Palace, the Ravens, and the Royal Mint exhibition. Additional experiences, such as audio guides, may incur extra charges.
Can I leave and re-enter the Tower of London on the same day with my ticket?
Re-entry is generally not permitted. Once you exit, you will need a new ticket to re-enter.
Are there any age restrictions for visitors to the Tower of London?
There are no age restrictions; visitors of all ages are welcome. However, children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
How much time should you set aside for your visit to the Tower?
Most visitors find that 3 to 4 hours is ideal for thoroughly exploring all the fascinating attractions and soaking in the site's rich history.
What is the best time to visit the Tower of London to avoid crowds?
Visiting during weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, can help you avoid peak crowds. Off-peak seasons, such as late autumn and winter (excluding holidays), also tend to be less crowded.
Is photography allowed inside the Tower of London?
Photography is permitted in most outdoor areas; however, it is prohibited inside certain exhibitions, such as the Crown Jewels, to protect the artifacts and enhance security.
What should I wear on my visit?
Opt for comfortable footwear, as you'll navigate uneven surfaces and cover some ground while exploring the site.
Is the Tower of London accessible for visitors with disabilities?
The Tower offers various accessibility features, including step-free access routes and assistance for visitors with mobility challenges. However, due to the historic nature of the site, some areas may be less accessible.
Can I bring my bag or backpack inside?
Large bags aren't allowed inside, so be sure to use the designated storage areas outside for your belongings.
How can I get to the Tower of London?
The Tower of London is located in central London and is easily accessible by public transportation. You can take the tube, bus, train, or riverboat. It is recommended to use public transportation or walk as parking in the area is limited.
