The Tower of London is an iconic landmark offering a captivating journey through British history. Beyond its imposing walls lies royal treasures, including the Crown Jewels, and a glimpse of medieval life. The knowledgeable Yeoman Warders, the Tower's traditional guardians, share compelling stories and insights into its rich past. More than just a fortress, the Tower of London is a tangible link to centuries of historical mysteries, like the mysterious disappearance of the Princes of the Tower.

What's inside the Tower of London

Curious about what’s inside? From pricey jewels to legendary tales, here’s a taste of the Tower’s must-see highlights!

Crown Jewels

The Crown Jewels at the Tower of London are no ordinary gems—they’re packed with over 23,000 sparkling stones, including the world-famous Cullinan diamond and the Imperial State Crown. Guarded by Yeoman Warders, Tower guards, and the Tower Warden, these jewels have witnessed centuries of coronations, royal events, and even a failed heist.

About the Crown Jewels

White Tower

The White Tower was the original keep built by William the Conqueror’s in the 11th century to awe and dominate London’s skyline with thick walls and epic defenses. It was once a royal home, prison, and even a place for chilling executions Inside, you’ll find the Romanesque Chapel of St John and various displays of the Royal Armouries with incredible arms, armor, and stories from the ages.

About the White Tower

St. John’s Chapel

Nestled in the White Tower, the Chapel of St John the Evangelist is the finest surviving example of early Anglo-Norman royal ecclesiastical architecture, dating from around 1080. Its small and intimate size, and delicate carved details transport you straight into the heart of royal worship in Norman times.

Tower Green

Tower Green might look peaceful now, but it’s where history’s highest-profile heads quite literally rolled! This and the adjacent scaffold site where high-status prisoners—Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, Charles I—met their end. A simple granite memorial now marks the spot of these private executions.

Bloody Tower

Don’t let the name fool you—there’s more to the Bloody Tower than just its spooky reputation! Infamous for the alleged murder of Edward V and his brother Richard in 1483, the Bloody Tower evokes centuries of royal intrigue and disappearance. Inside, you’ll see displays on the Princes in the Tower legend and Sir Walter Raleigh’s imprisonment, all under haunting medieval vaults.

Traitor's Gate

Traitors' Gate, part of St. Thomas' Tower, was built in the late 1270s as a water entrance for King Edward I. Over time, it became infamous as the entry point for prisoners accused of treason, such as Sir Thomas More and Queen Anne Boleyn, who were brought by barge along the Thames. The gate's name has been used since at least 1544, reflecting its grim role in England's history.

Medieval Palace

Once the luxurious lodgings of Henry III and Edward I, the Medieval Palace’s richly decorated rooms evoke 13th-century court life and hospitality. Visitors can explore reconstructed chambers, banqueting halls and private quarters that bring medieval royalty’s daily routines vividly back to life.

St. Peter ad Vincula Chapel

The Tudor-era Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula (built 1519–20) stands within the Inner Ward as the church for Tower residents, and it's the final resting place of those executed in the Tower, including Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. Its Tudor windows and simple nave conceal centuries of royal tragedy and reconciliation.

Battlements

Climb the inner curtain walls and towers to patrol the medieval battlements. From these ramparts you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Thames and city skyline, imagining the sentries who once defended London from attack.

The Royal Mint Museum

Explore the rich history of the Tower's Mint between 1279 and 1812 through the permanent exhibition, "The Tower's Mint: Coins and Kings." Delight in rare objects, including over 80,000 coins from ancient times and 12,000 medals, from the Royal Mint Museum's collection and learn about the monarchs who left their mark through their coinage.

Line of Kings

Installed by Charles II in the 17th century as one of the earliest public armour exhibits, the Line of Kings showcases historic suits and helmets on life-size wooden figures, representing monarchs like Henry VIII, Charles I and James II in full parade dress. It remains a unique glimpse into royal martial pageantry and Restoration-era propaganda.

Fusilier Museum

Housed in the Victorian North Turret, the Fusilier Museum chronicles the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers from its 1685 founding to today, displaying Victoria Crosses, historic uniforms (including George V’s bearskin) and captured French standards. Interactive exhibits trace the regiment’s battlefield exploits and esprit de corps.

Torture at the Tower

In the Lower Wakefield Tower, the “Torture at the Tower” exhibition displays faithful replicas of instruments—such as the rack and iron maiden—used during Tudor and Stuart political and religious upheavals. First-hand accounts and multimedia give chilling insight into interrogation methods and prisoner resilience.

Imprisonment at the Tower

Located in Beauchamp Tower, this exhibition explores the daily lives and personal stories of prisoners—from Lady Jane Grey to Guy Fawkes—through graffiti, documents and recreated cells. It humanises the Tower’s most famous hostages by revealing their hopes, fears and coping strategies behind cold walls.

Ceremony of the Keys

Every night for over 700 years at 9:52 pm, a Yeoman Warder locks the Tower’s gates in the Ceremony of the Keys. The Chief Warder, lantern in hand, challenges sentries with the traditional call-and-response, then secures the outer, middle, and Byward Towers. Visitors on escorted tours witness this timeless, iconic ritual.

About the Tower's residents

Infamous prisoners

Delve into the dark recesses of history, where the Tower's cells concealed some of the most infamous prisoners in British history. From Sir Thomas More to Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes, the Tower held individuals whose stories still captivate the imagination. Learn about their struggles, their resilience, and the secrets they took to their graves.

Kings and queens

The Tower of London wasn't just a place of confinement; it was also a royal residence. Walk in the footsteps of monarchs such as Edward I, who expanded the Tower's fortifications, or the ill-fated King Henry VI, who met a tragic end within these walls. Discover the living history of regal splendor and ambition that once filled the Tower's chambers.

Yeoman warders

Led by the iconic Beefeaters in their red and gold uniforms, free Yeoman Warder tours run every 30 minutes, sharing 1,000 years of tales—covering treason, torture, crowns and ghost stories—with wit and authority. These engaging tours are the perfect way to get your bearings and dive into Tower lore

Tower ravens

Meet the enigmatic guardians of the Tower—its ravens. Legend has it that as long as the ravens remain at the Tower, the kingdom will endure. Learn about the superstitions, the royal decrees, and the special care given to these magnificent birds. Marvel at their intelligence and their place in the Tower's enduring mythology.

How to get inside the Tower of London?

If you're planning to visit the Tower of London, definitely grab your tickets online ahead of time to skip the long lines.
It's open daily, with hours from 9am to 5:30pm in summer and 10am to 4:30pm in winter.
Your ticket gets you into the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, and cool exhibitions, like ‘The Tower’s Mint: Coins and Kings’ and ‘Line of Kings’.
Try to get there early for a guided tour with a Yeoman Warder—it starts every hour near the entrance.
Last admission is usually two hours before closing, so plan to spend 2-3 hours soaking it all in!

Plan your visit

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Visitor tips

Go early for the Crown Jewels: The queue for the Crown Jewels builds quickly—head there immediately after entry to avoid long waits.
Join a Beefeater tour: These 45-minute guided tours are included in your ticket. Be at the entrance gate on the hour to join one; they don't repeat frequently. The guides are actual military personnel, and their stories include gruesome executions and royal scandal.
Climb 100+ steps inside White Tower: If you want to see the Royal Armouries inside the White Tower, prepare for narrow spiral staircases and lots of steps. There’s no elevator inside the historic towers, so those with mobility issues should stick to ground-level exhibitions like the Medieval Palace.
Look for the ravens: The famous ravens are not pets. Don't try to touch or feed them—they're known to bite if provoked. Also, don’t miss the Ravenmaster's talk, usually held in the afternoon near the raven cages.
Explore the Bloody Tower before midday: It gets crowded later, and the interior rooms are small. Visit early to see the exhibit on the Princes in the Tower and Sir Walter Raleigh’s cell without feeling crammed.
Allow time for the Medieval Palace and wall walk: Many skip this hidden gem. Access it through St. Thomas’s Tower, and enjoy views over Tower Bridge while walking the original fortress walls. It includes interactive displays and re-creations of medieval royal life—less crowded and great for kids.
Pack a picnic: There’s only one café inside, and it’s pricey with limited seating. There are designated spots where you can relax and enjoy a snack or lunch, giving you a nice break during your visit. Food is not allowed in historic buildings, so consume snacks in outdoor areas like the moat or near the Wharf.
Look for special events: Check the day’s schedule at the entrance or online beforehand—key ceremony demos, gun salutes, live history actors, or artillery displays happen at specific times and are easy to miss.
No re-entry: Once you leave the Tower grounds, you cannot re-enter on the same ticket—so make sure you see everything before exiting through the gift shop.

Frequently Asked Questions about what’s inside Tower of London

Can you take pictures inside the Tower of London?

Yes, you are allowed to take pictures inside the Tower of London. Photography is permitted throughout the complex. However, some areas such as the Jewel House where the Crown Jewels are displayed, may have restrictions on photography due to security reasons.

Can I bring food or drinks?

You’re welcome to bring snacks, but there are designated picnic areas outside where you can enjoy your food in a lovely setting.

How big is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London encompasses an area of approximately 12 acres or 4.9 hectares. It is situated along the northern bank of the River Thames in Central London. Within its grounds, there are multiple buildings, towers, and open spaces, offering visitors a wide range of attractions to explore.

Is it free to view what's inside the Tower of London?

You can view all the attractions inside the Tower of London on a valid admission ticket. Buy it in advance to plan your visit.

What are the Crown Jewels, and where are they housed in the Tower?

The Crown Jewels are a collection of ceremonial objects, including crowns, scepters, and orbs, that are used during royal ceremonies. They are housed in the Jewel House within the Tower of London.

Can you access the Tower's battlements and enjoy panoramic views of London?

Yes, you can climb the Tower's battlements for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape, including iconic landmarks such as the River Thames, Tower Bridge, and the Shard.

Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions at the Tower of London?

The Tower of London offers family-friendly activities and attractions, including interactive exhibits, storytelling sessions, and costumed reenactments. The family trail provides an engaging way for children to explore the Tower's history.

Can you explore the Tower's underground chambers and tunnels?

While the Tower of London does not have extensive underground chambers or tunnels open to the public, you can explore parts of the Tower's basements and crypts, which hold their own historical significance.

Is there a gift shop at the Tower of London?

Yes, the Tower of London has a gift shop offering a wide range of souvenirs, books, jewelry, and other merchandise inspired by the Tower's history and heritage.

Are there any famous legends or ghost stories associated with the Tower's highlights?

Yes, the Tower boasts a history filled with legends and ghostly tales, from the Ravens' legend to the mysterious disappearance of the Princes in the Tower. These stories add intrigue to the Tower's highlights.

What's the history behind the name "Bloody Tower"?

The "Bloody Tower" earned its name due to its connection with the mysterious disappearance of the Princes in the Tower, Edward V and Richard of Shrewsbury. It's a highlight with a dark and enigmatic history.