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Discover the Secrets of the Tower of London: A Fascinating Journey Through England's History

View of the Tower of London across the River Thames Guided tour with Beefeater in the Tower of London Tower of London Speech of Beefeater in front of the Tower of London

    The Tower of London is an iconic landmark and a symbol of England's rich and fascinating history. Located on the north bank of the River Thames, right next to the Tower Bridge, this magnificent fortress has served as a royal palace, a prison, an armory, and a treasury. The Tower has been witness to some of the most dramatic events in English history, including royal executions, rebellions, and bloody battles. Today, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in London, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to explore its rich history, magnificent architecture, and world-renowned collection of Crown Jewels. 

    History, Crown Jewels and Ravens of the Tower of London

    History and Architecture

    The Tower of London is a historic fortress located in the heart of London. The site has been used as a royal palace, prison, and fortress for over 900 years, and its impressive architecture and design make it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the iconic White Tower, walk along the walls, and discover the many different buildings and structures that make up the Tower. 

    The Crown Jewels

    Prepare to be dazzled by the breathtaking Crown Jewels, a collection of over 23,000 gemstones and priceless royal regalia housed in the Tower's Jewel House. Witness the Imperial State Crown, St Edward's Crown, and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, each boasting a rich history and symbolizing the power and authority of the British monarchy. This awe-inspiring collection is not to be missed!

    The Tower's Dark Past

    The Tower of London has a dark and fascinating history. It was used as a prison for many years, and some of the most famous prisoners in English history, like the two young princes Edward V and his brother Richard, were held within its walls. Visitors can explore the prison cells, the execution site, and learn about the many famous executions that took place at the Tower. The Tower has also been the site of numerous battles and conflicts throughout history, and visitors can learn about its role in England's military history. 

    The Tower Ravens

    Legend has it that if the Tower's resident ravens ever leave, the kingdom will fall. Meet the seven ravens who call the Tower of London their home, each with its own unique personality. The Ravenmaster takes care of these intelligent birds, ensuring the ancient prophecy remains unfulfilled. Be sure to pay a visit to these fascinating feathered residents during your tour.

    Beefeater Tours

    Meet the Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters, the ceremonial guardians of the Tower of London. These captivating storytellers will regale you with fascinating tales of the Tower's history, from its origins as a royal palace to its time as a prison and execution site. Dressed in their iconic Tudor uniforms, the Beefeaters are an essential part of your Tower of London experience.

    The White Tower

    Explore the White Tower, the heart of the Tower of London complex and a symbol of royal power. Inside, you'll find the Royal Armouries collection, which includes King Henry VIII's personal armor and the famous Line of Kings exhibition. Discover centuries of weaponry, armor, and military history as you delve into this iconic fortress. 

     

    Highlights of the Tower of London

    • Immerse Yourself in History: Unravel centuries of captivating stories, from royal intrigue to tales of imprisonment and execution, as you explore the Tower of London's ancient walls and discover the pivotal moments that have shaped British history. 
    • See the Crown Jewels: Marvel at the breathtaking collection of over 23,000 gemstones and priceless royal regalia housed in the Tower's Jewel House, including the Imperial State Crown, St Edward's Crown, and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, symbolizing the power and authority of the British monarchy. 
    • Meet the Beefeaters: Encounter the Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters, the ceremonial guardians of the Tower, as they regale you with fascinating tales of the Tower's history and share their experiences in their iconic Tudor uniforms. 
    • Explore the White Tower: Venture into the heart of the Tower complex and discover centuries of weaponry, armor, and military history within the Royal Armouries collection, including King Henry VIII's personal armor and the famous Line of Kings exhibition. 
    • Take in the Views: Soak up stunning views of the River Thames, Tower Bridge, and the city skyline as you stroll through the Tower of London's historic grounds, immersing yourself in the atmosphere of this iconic British landmark. 

     

    Opening hours of the Tower of London

    Opening days and hours vary, please check opening times directly in the attraction website

    SUMMER (01 MARCH - 31 OCTOBER) 

    01 March to 01 April 2023:  
    Mondays and Sundays: 10.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. 
    Tuesday - Saturday: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.  

    02 April: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.  

    03 to 16 April 2023:  
    Daily: 9.00 a.m. - 17.30 p.m.  

    17 April to 26 May 2023:  
    Mondays and Sundays: 10.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. 
    Tuesday - Saturday: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.  

    01 May (Bank Holiday): 9.00 a.m. - 5.30  p.m.  

    06 May 2023: closed   

    08 May (Bank Holiday): 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.  

    27 May to 21 July 2023:  
    Mondays and Sundays: 10.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. 
    Tuesday - Saturday: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.  

    27 May to 04 June 2023 (including Bank Holiday on 29 May)  
    Daily: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.  

    05 June to 21 July 2023:   
    Mondays and Sundays: 10.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. 
    Tuesday - Saturday: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.  

    22 July to 01 September 2023 (including Bank Holiday on 28 August):  
    Daily: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 a.m.  

    02 September to 20 October 2023:  
    Daily: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.  

    Tuesday 05 September 2023: 9.00 a.m. - 12.00 p.m.  

    21 October to 29 October 2023:  
    Daily: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. 

    Monday 30 October: 10.00 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. 

    Tuesday 31 October: 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. 

    Please note: The last admission is always two hours before closing. 
    The last Yeoman Wanderer tour starts at the time of the last admission. 

     

     

    Reservations for the Tower of London

      Pre-book your ticket and time slot through your Turbopass portal before you visit. We provide a general admission ticket for the tower of London, which includes entry to The White Tower, Chapel of St. Peter and other exhibitions.

      Your ticket is valid for entry at any time from opening to last admission time, except during school holidays and during events, when half-hourly timeslots apply.

      After you make your Turbopass booking, we will provide you with a link and detailed instructions on how to book your time slot for the visit. This attraction is extremely popular and gets booked up fast. If this is one of your “must-do” activities, please reserve your spot as soon as possible!

      For some activities and tours, such as the Crown Jewels exhibition and the Yeoman Warder tours, it is recommended to arrive early to avoid queues and ensure availability.

      It is important to note that some areas of the Tower of London may be closed or have limited access due to ongoing conservation work or other reasons. 

     

    Restrictions and guidelines for the Tower of London 

    Visitors to the Tower of London should be aware of certain restrictions and guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience: 

    Bag Checks: For security reasons, bag checks are conducted upon entry to the Tower of London. Large bags and luggage are not permitted, so it is advised to travel light or store your belongings at a nearby luggage facility. 

    Photography: While photography is generally allowed within the Tower grounds, there may be some areas where it is restricted, particularly in the Jewel House where the Crown Jewels are displayed. Make sure to look for and respect any "no photography" signs. 

    Guided Tours: The Tower of London offers guided tours led by the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), which provide fascinating insights into the history and stories of the Tower. These tours are included in the admission price but may have limited capacity, so it's recommended to arrive early to secure a spot on your preferred tour. 

    Accessibility: The Tower of London strives to be accessible to all visitors. However, due to its historical nature, some areas may have uneven surfaces, steps, or narrow passages, which might be challenging for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments. There are ramps and lifts available in some parts of the Tower, and a limited number of wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is advised to check the Tower's accessibility information online or contact their visitor services team for further assistance. 

     

    How to get to the Tower of London

    The Tower of London is located on the north bank of the Thames, right next to the famous Tower Bridge. So it is quite central and easy to reach by public transport. Here are some of the ways to get there: 

    By Tube/Metro: The nearest underground station to the Tower of London is Tower Hill, which is on the District and Circle lines. From the station, it's a short walk to the castle.

    By Bus: The Tower of London is served by several bus routes, including numbers 15, 42, 78, 100, and RV1. Check the Transport for London website for up-to-date information on bus routes and schedules.

    By Train: If you're coming from outside London, you can take a train to London Bridge or Fenchurch Street station, both of which are within walking distance of the Tower of London.   

    By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in London and can drop you off at the Tower of London. However, be aware that traffic in central London can be heavy, so it's advisable to use public transportation if possible. 

     

     

    Address of the Tower of London

    Tower of London
    London EC3N 4AB
    United Kingdom    

    The Tower of London has several entrances, but the main entrance is located on Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB. 
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    The Tower of London is a fascinating sight with a wide range of exhibitions and activities for visitors of all ages. Book your London City Pass now and visit this attraction and many more for free!

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