Tower of London: Historic Fortress and Royal Palace
Explore the Tower of London, a historic fortress and royal palace housing the Crown Jewels and centuries of British history.
The Tower of London, an iconic historic castle in central London, has served as a royal palace, fortress, and prison since the 11th century. Famous for housing the Crown Jewels and guarded by the Yeoman Warders, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a rich journey through British history with its medieval architecture, exhibitions, and storied grounds.
A brief summary to Tower of London
- London, EC3N 4AB, GB
- +443333206000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter visit, especially during winter months.
- Join a Yeoman Warder guided tour included with your ticket for fascinating stories and historical insights.
- Allow at least three hours to explore the Crown Jewels, White Tower, battlements, and exhibitions thoroughly.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to skip queues and consider renting an audio guide for a self-paced experience.
- Check for any temporary closures or conservation work before your visit to plan your route accordingly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Tower Hill Station on the Circle or District lines, approximately a 5-minute walk to the Tower. Trains run frequently, and a single journey costs around £2.50 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near the Tower, including routes 15, 42, 78, and 100. Bus travel times vary but typically take 15-30 minutes from central London. A single bus fare is about £1.65 with contactless payment.
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Riverboat
The Tower Pier on the River Thames is served by riverboat services from Westminster and Greenwich. The scenic journey takes 20-40 minutes, with ticket prices starting around £7.50 one way.
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Taxi or Ride-share
Taxis and ride-share services can drop you directly at the Tower entrance. Travel times from central London range from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically start at £10 and vary with distance and time.
Tower of London location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Tower of London
Origins and Historical Significance
Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, the Tower of London stands as one of the most complete and well-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe. Originally built as a symbol of Norman power, it evolved over centuries to serve multiple roles including royal residence, armory, treasury, and notorious prison. Its walls have witnessed pivotal moments in British history, from royal intrigues and executions to serving as a secure vault for the Crown Jewels.The Crown Jewels and Royal Treasures
A highlight of the Tower is the dazzling Crown Jewels collection, which includes the Imperial State Crown, St. Edward's Crown, and the Coronation Spoon, among thousands of precious gemstones. Visitors can explore the secure Jewel House exhibition, where these symbols of monarchy are displayed in spectacular settings. The collection is integral to British coronation ceremonies and royal events, making the Tower a living repository of royal heritage.Architectural Marvels and Grounds
Spanning over 18 acres, the Tower complex features a variety of structures such as the White Tower, the Medieval Palace, the Bloody Tower, and the battlements. The White Tower, the oldest part, showcases medieval military architecture and houses historic armory exhibits. The grounds include green spaces and the famous ravens, whose presence is steeped in legend and believed to protect the kingdom.Visitor Experience and Tours
Visitors are encouraged to allow at least three hours to fully experience the Tower, including guided Yeoman Warder tours that bring the fortress’s stories to life with centuries of anecdotes and lore. Audio guides are available in multiple languages for self-paced exploration. The Tower also hosts events such as the ancient nightly Ceremony of the Keys, an enduring tradition of locking the gates.Conservation and Accessibility
Ongoing conservation work ensures the preservation of this historic site, with some areas occasionally closed for maintenance. The Tower’s medieval design includes many stairs and cobbled surfaces, limiting wheelchair access in parts. Nevertheless, efforts are made to accommodate visitors with information and facilities to enhance accessibility.Cultural and Symbolic Importance
Beyond its physical presence, the Tower of London embodies the complex history of British monarchy, justice, and power. It remains a potent symbol of national identity and attracts millions eager to connect with the stories of kings, queens, prisoners, and guardians that shaped the nation’s past.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
