Discover The Tower of London | A Visitor's Introduction to The Tower of London

The Tower of London Historical Overview

The Tower of London was established by William the Conqueror in the 11th century as part of his effort to consolidate control over England after the Norman Conquest. Its initial structure, the White Tower, was completed around 1078 and served as a powerful symbol of Norman authority. Over the centuries, the Tower was expanded and reinforced, with successive monarchs adding defensive walls, towers, and additional structures.

The Tower’s diverse roles throughout history have made it a central part of many key historic events. It was used as a royal residence, a site of execution, and a prison for notable figures such as Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and Elizabeth I before she became queen. It has also housed the Crown Jewels since the 17th century, cementing its status as a symbol of royal power and heritage.

Tower of London Highlights

1. The White Tower: The central structure of the Tower of London, the White Tower is the oldest part of the complex. Built from white limestone, it was originally designed as a keep and defensive stronghold. Today, it houses the Line of Kings exhibition, which features a unique display of historic armour, including that of Henry VIII and Charles I.

2. The Crown Jewels: One of the main attractions, the Crown Jewels are housed in the Jewel House within the Tower grounds. This dazzling collection includes more than 100 objects, featuring crowns, sceptres, orbs, and other ceremonial regalia used during coronations and other state occasions. Highlights include the Imperial State Crown, worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament, and the Sovereign’s Sceptre, which holds the Great Star of Africa, the largest clear-cut diamond in the world.

3. Medieval Palace: A section of the Tower that provides insight into the royal living quarters of medieval kings and queens, the Medieval Palace showcases rooms reconstructed to reflect the splendor of the 13th-century court. Visitors can see the luxurious interiors, including the King’s Bedchamber and St. Thomas’s Tower, and get a sense of what life was like for those residing within the fortress.

4. The Bloody Tower: Infamous as the site where the two young Princes in the Tower, Edward V and his brother Richard, Duke of York, were believed to have been murdered, the Bloody Tower holds a dark place in the Tower’s history. Visitors can learn about the mystery surrounding their disappearance and see exhibits exploring this intriguing and tragic story.

5. The Beefeaters (Yeoman Warders): The Tower’s ceremonial guardians, the Yeoman Warders, more commonly known as Beefeaters, offer guided tours that provide a wealth of information about the Tower’s history. Their tours are entertaining and informative, covering everything from the Tower’s architectural evolution to its most notorious prisoners and grisly executions.

6. Traitor’s Gate: Originally constructed as a water gate entrance to the Tower, Traitor’s Gate was used to bring prisoners into the fortress by boat from the Thames. Notable figures such as Anne Boleyn and Sir Thomas More are believed to have entered the Tower through this ominous gateway.

7. Tower Green and Scaffold Site: Tower Green is a quiet area within the complex where many high-profile executions took place, including those of Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard (both wives of Henry VIII), and Lady Jane Grey. A glass memorial now marks the spot, commemorating those who met their fate here.

8. The Ravens: A unique feature of the Tower, its resident ravens are shrouded in legend and superstition. According to folklore, the presence of ravens is essential to the safety of the Tower and the kingdom. Visitors can see these imposing birds roaming the grounds, adding an element of mystique to the site.

Visitor Experience and Activities

The Tower of London offers a comprehensive visitor experience, with a range of activities and displays that bring its history to life. A typical visit includes exploring its diverse towers, ramparts, and exhibits, and joining a guided tour led by one of the Yeoman Warders. The Tower’s exhibitions cover various themes, from the use of the Tower as a prison and torture chamber to its role in the history of the monarchy and the broader story of London.

Interactive Displays and Exhibitions: Several interactive displays, such as the "Torture at the Tower" exhibit and the history of the Tower’s menagerie, provide insights into some of the more macabre and unusual aspects of its past.

Special Events and Reenactments: The Tower hosts special events, including historical reenactments, themed tours, and family activities throughout the year. These events often feature costumed actors who help recreate significant moments from the Tower’s history, such as courtly banquets or the trial of Anne Boleyn.

Ceremony of the Keys: An ancient nightly ritual that has been carried out for over 700 years, the Ceremony of the Keys is the traditional locking-up of the Tower. Limited tickets are available for those wishing to witness this piece of living history.

Facilities and Accessibility

The Tower of London provides a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and accessible visit:

Visitor Centre and Shops: The visitor centre includes a gift shop offering a range of souvenirs, from books on the Tower’s history to replicas of the Crown Jewels. Additional shops are located throughout the grounds, selling themed items and refreshments.

Cafés and Restaurants: The Tower has several food outlets, including the New Armouries Café, where visitors can enjoy a range of hot and cold dishes, and the Raven Café, serving light snacks and beverages.

Accessibility: While parts of the Tower, such as the medieval staircases, may pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues, most areas are accessible. Ramps and lifts are available in key areas, and wheelchairs are available for hire. Accessibility maps and information are provided at the entrance.

Audio Guides and Digital Resources: Audio guides in multiple languages are available, providing a detailed commentary on the Tower’s history. Digital resources, including mobile apps, offer additional content and insights for tech-savvy visitors.

Practical Information and Nearby Attractions

The Tower of London is open year-round, though hours vary seasonally. Admission fees apply, with discounted rates for children, seniors, and families. Tickets can be purchased on-site or booked in advance online, which is recommended during peak periods to avoid long queues.

The Tower is well-connected by public transport, with Tower Hill Underground Station just a short walk away and numerous bus routes serving the area. It is also easily accessible by riverboat services via Tower Pier.

Nearby attractions include:

Tower Bridge: Located adjacent to the Tower, this iconic bridge offers panoramic views from its high-level walkways and houses an exhibition on its history and engineering.
St. Katharine Dock: A historic marina with shops, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely stroll after exploring the Tower.
The City of London: Just beyond the Tower’s walls, the City of London is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the Monument to the Great Fire of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Tips for Visiting

Book in Advance: To save time and ensure entry during busy periods, it’s best to book tickets in advance.
Arrive Early: Arriving early allows you to explore popular exhibits like the Crown Jewels with fewer crowds.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Tower’s cobblestone paths and staircases require sturdy footwear.
Join a Yeoman Warder Tour: These tours are included with admission and provide a lively and informative introduction to the Tower’s history.