Jewel Tower: Medieval Treasure of Westminster

A Rare Survivor of the Medieval Palace

The Jewel Tower stands as one of the only two remaining parts of the original Palace of Westminster, a grand royal residence before the current neo-Gothic Houses of Parliament were built. Constructed around 1365 under King Edward III, the tower was designed to securely house the King's Privy Wardrobe — a treasury for precious royal valuables, including fine textiles and silver plate. Its robust stone walls, metal-grilled windows, and surrounding moat were defensive measures reflecting the importance of its contents and the turbulent times.

Architectural and Historical Features

Inside, visitors can admire the fine 14th-century bibbed vaulted ceilings, a hallmark of medieval craftsmanship. The tower's interior is arranged over three floors, featuring displays that trace its multifaceted history. Highlights include models of the lost medieval Palace of Westminster, replicas of royal objects, and period room settings that evoke the lives of treasury officials and clerks from different eras. The moat’s excavated remains and archaeological finds such as medieval pottery, a broken sword, and a painted cat skull add tangible links to the past.

From Royal Treasury to Parliamentary Archive

After the royal family relocated to Whitehall, the Jewel Tower’s role shifted. It became a storage space for various items, including the childhood dolls of Henry VIII’s daughters, Mary and Elizabeth. Later, it served as a repository for Parliamentary documents, preserving important records such as the death warrant of King Charles I and the Act of Union between England and Scotland. In the 19th and 20th centuries, it housed the National Weights and Measures Office, underscoring its continued administrative significance.

Visiting Experience and Surroundings

Today managed by English Heritage, the Jewel Tower offers a quiet, intimate experience away from the busier London landmarks nearby. Its location near Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament places it in a historic and politically charged setting. Visitors can explore the tower’s exhibitions at their own pace, appreciating the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nearly 700 years of English history. The tower also features informative displays and a small café, enhancing the visit.

Preservation and Cultural Importance

The Jewel Tower is a protected heritage site and part of the UNESCO World Heritage designation for the Palace of Westminster area. Its survival through centuries of political change, fires, and urban development makes it a precious architectural and historical relic. Conservation efforts maintain its medieval fabric and allow the public to engage with a lesser-known but vital chapter of England’s royal and parliamentary story.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Open primarily on weekends from 10am to 4pm, the Jewel Tower requires advance booking for entry, with free admission for English Heritage members. The site is compact and best suited for visitors interested in medieval history, architecture, and the evolution of England’s governance. While small, it offers rich educational content and a unique glimpse into the royal past amid the heart of modern London.