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Tower of London entrance | Which lane to use and visitor access guide

Quick overview: Tower of London entrance

The Tower of London uses a single managed public entrance on the west side of the fortress, reached from Tower Hill via the signed visitor route. Although the Tower has several historic gates, visitors don't choose between multiple entrances when arriving.

  • Shortest queues: Arrive before 10am on weekdays whenever possible.
  • Timed tickets: Use the main visitor entrance and join the ticket-holder line after security.
  • Guided tours: Enter through the same public entrance before joining a Yeoman Warder tour inside the grounds.
  • Step-free access: The main entrance can be reached from Tower Hill Underground Station, which offers step-free access to street level.
  • Re-entry: Admission is valid for one entry only. Once you leave the Tower, re-entry is not permitted.

Find the right lane based on your ticket type

Ticket typeWhich lane to useNotes

Standard entry ticket

Main visitor entrance

Complete the security check before scanning your ticket. Arrive around 15 minutes before your time slot.

Skip-the-line or timed entry

Main visitor entrance

Skip-the-line applies to the ticket queue only. All visitors must still pass through security screening.

Guided tour

Main visitor entrance

Enter using your ticket first, then meet your guide or join the scheduled tour inside the Tower grounds.

Combo tickets and attraction passes

Main visitor entrance

Use the standard ticket-holder lane unless your booking specifically states a separate meeting point.

Accessible entrance at the Tower of London

West Gate

  • Best step-free arrival: Tower Hill Underground Station is the closest option, around a 5-minute walk away, and offers step-free access from the platform to street level.
  • Alternative accessible stations: If you're travelling from elsewhere in London, Tower Gateway DLR, London Fenchurch Street, Bank, and London Bridge stations also provide lift access to street level.
  • Accessible visitor facilities: The Tower offers wheelchair hire (subject to availability), accessible toilets, and a digital British Sign Language (BSL) guide to support a wider range of visitors.
  • Historic terrain to expect: While the main entrance and parts of the site are accessible, cobblestones, uneven pathways, steep slopes, and stair-only areas mean some sections of the fortress remain difficult or impossible to access.
  • Ask staff for the easiest route: Temporary conservation work or operational changes can affect accessible pathways. Staff at the entrance can recommend the most suitable route based on your mobility needs on the day of your visit.

Security, bags & re-entry

Every visitor passes through airport-style security before entering the Tower, regardless of ticket type. Large luggage, oversized bags, tripods, selfie sticks and certain restricted items are not permitted inside. Keep your ticket ready before reaching the entrance to help move the queue along.

Your admission ticket is valid for one entry only. Once you leave the Tower of London, re-entry is not permitted, so plan to visit the Crown Jewels, exhibitions, cafés and shops before exiting.

Frequently asked questions about the Tower of London entrance

The public entrance is located on the west side of the Tower, reached via the signed visitor route from Tower Hill. All visitors enter through this managed entrance regardless of ticket type.