The Crown Jewels at the Tower of London
Explore the dazzling Crown Jewels collection, a symbol of British monarchy and history, housed securely within the iconic Tower of London.
The Crown Jewels, housed within the Tower of London, are a spectacular collection of royal regalia symbolizing the authority and history of the British monarchy. Dating mainly from the Restoration period of 1661, these priceless treasures include crowns, sceptres, and orbs used in coronations and state ceremonies. Visitors can marvel at iconic pieces such as St Edward’s Crown and the Imperial State Crown, set in a secure, purpose-built Jewel House within the historic fortress on Tower Hill.
A brief summary to The Crown Jewels
- Tower of, Tower Hill, London, EC3N 4AB, GB
- +443333206000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early on weekday mornings, especially from November to March, to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience viewing the Crown Jewels.
- Purchase tickets in advance to secure entry and consider adding an audio guide for detailed historical context.
- Check for any temporary closures or maintenance updates on the official Historic Royal Palaces website before your visit.
- Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the Crown Jewels exhibition and the surrounding Tower of London grounds.
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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London Underground
Take the District or Circle Line to Tower Hill station, approximately a 5-minute walk to the Tower of London. Trains run frequently with fares starting from £2.50 using contactless payment. Note that the area is within the Congestion Charging Zone with no onsite parking.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the Tower Hill area, including routes 15, 42, 78, and 100. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 20 to 40 minutes from central London. Single fares start at £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Riverboat
Riverboat services from Westminster or Greenwich stop at Tower Pier, a short walk from the Tower of London. This scenic route takes around 30 to 45 minutes and offers a unique approach to the landmark. Tickets cost approximately £7 to £10 one way.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central London, walking to the Tower of London is feasible and pleasant, especially along the Thames Path. Walking times range from 20 to 40 minutes depending on your starting point, with mostly flat and accessible terrain.
The Crown Jewels 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 The Crown Jewels
Historic Legacy of the Crown Jewels
The Crown Jewels have been safeguarded at the Tower of London since the 1660s, following the turbulent period of the English Civil War. The original medieval coronation regalia were destroyed in 1649 by Parliament in an effort to abolish the monarchy, with precious stones sold off and gold melted down. When the monarchy was restored in 1660, King Charles II commissioned a new set of regalia for his coronation in 1661, which forms the core of the collection seen today. Some older artifacts, like the Coronation Spoon dating back to the 12th century, survived through private protection.Iconic Pieces and Symbolism
Among the most famous items is St Edward’s Crown, used to crown monarchs since the Restoration, featuring St Edward’s Sapphire reputedly from the 11th century. The Imperial State Crown, crafted for King George VI’s coronation in 1937, is another highlight, richly adorned with precious gems including the Cullinan Diamond—the largest gem-quality uncut diamond ever found at 3,106 carats. These jewels embody royal authority and have been used in annual state occasions, reinforcing the continuity of British monarchy.The Jewel House and Visitor Experience
The Crown Jewels are displayed in the Jewel House, a secure, modern exhibition space within the Waterloo Barracks at the Tower of London, opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1994 and refurbished in 2012. The Jewel House offers visitors an up-close view of the regalia behind bulletproof glass, combining historical significance with state-of-the-art security. The Tower itself, a historic fortress established by William the Conqueror, provides a dramatic backdrop, enhancing the sense of awe and reverence.Security and Historical Incidents
The jewels’ security has evolved over centuries, especially after the 1671 attempt by Colonel Thomas Blood to steal the Crown Jewels. This event led to stricter protections, including armed guards and secure display cases. Over time, the Jewel House was relocated and rebuilt several times to improve safety and visitor access, culminating in the current exhibition space designed to accommodate thousands of visitors daily.Visiting Hours and Seasonal Considerations
The Tower of London, including the Crown Jewels exhibition, is open daily with typical hours from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, though some closures and maintenance periods occur seasonally. Visitors are advised to arrive early on weekdays, especially from November to March, to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil viewing experience. The Tower also hosts special events and conservation projects that may affect access.The Cultural and Ceremonial Importance
Beyond their dazzling appearance, the Crown Jewels represent centuries of British history, monarchy, and tradition. They are not mere artifacts but living symbols of the nation’s heritage, used in coronations, the State Opening of Parliament, and other significant ceremonies. Their display at the Tower of London allows the public to connect with this rich legacy in a setting steeped in history and legend.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roman Wall of Londinium
0.1 km
Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.
Wakefield Tower
0.1 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
Tower Hill Memorial
0.1 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
London Wall
0.1 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
1 Tower Hl Ter
0.2 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
Custom House
0.5 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Lloyd's of London
0.7 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.7 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Fish St Hill
0.7 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of Fish St Hill in London, a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the capital's rich heritage.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
0.7 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr
0.7 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr, a historical gem in the heart of London.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
0.7 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
St Helen's Church, Bishopsgate
0.8 km
Medieval dual-nave church with 800+ years of history, royal relics, and remarkable resilience.
London Bridge
0.8 km
Historic London Bridge, a vital Thames crossing blending centuries of engineering with modern urban life.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
0.8 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula
0.0 km
Historic Tudor chapel within the Tower of London, resting place of executed royalty and a vibrant parish church for over 500 years.
Tower of London
0.1 km
Explore the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rich in history and home to the Crown Jewels, perfect for all history lovers.
Tower of London Ice Rink
0.1 km
Skate in the historic moat of London’s iconic Tower of London for a magical winter experience surrounded by medieval walls and festive cheer.
Tower Hill
0.1 km
Historic Tower Hill offers a captivating blend of medieval heritage, iconic landmarks, and vibrant riverside charm in the heart of London.
Lanthorn Tower
0.1 km
Step into the Lanthorn Tower to explore the medieval royal lodgings and rich history of the Tower of London’s riverside palace.
Sundial at the Tower Hill
0.1 km
A captivating bronze sundial near Tower Hill station, telling London’s 2,000-year history through intricate carvings and offering stunning views of the Tower of London.
Gunpowder Plot: The Immersive Experience
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in the thrilling 1605 Gunpowder Plot with live actors, authentic vaults, and cutting-edge VR at Tower Hill Vaults.
8-12 Tower Hill
0.2 km
Historic Tower Hill in London, where ancient walls meet iconic landmarks and vibrant riverside life unfolds.
Trinity Square Gardens
0.2 km
A quiet City garden on the site of Tower Hill’s scaffold, home to the Tower Hill Memorial and framed by historic architecture and views of the Tower of London.
Trinity Square
0.2 km
A dignified London square where imperial architecture, ancient walls, and solemn memorials meet beside the Tower of London.
Trinity House
0.2 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage at Trinity House, London's historic center for navigation and seamanship, featuring stunning architecture and captivating exhibits.
All Hallows by the Tower
0.2 km
Discover London's oldest church, a historic gem beside the Tower, where Roman, Saxon, and medieval layers tell tales of resilience and heritage.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
0.3 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill offering seasonal classics and craft ales in a setting steeped in London's dramatic past.
St Olave's Church, Hart Street
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of St Olave's Church, a hidden gem in the heart of London, perfect for history enthusiasts and peace-seekers alike.
Tower Bridge
0.4 km
Walk across London’s most famous bridge, explore its high-level walkways and glass floors, and discover the Victorian engineering behind this iconic landmark.
Essential places to dine
La Dame de Pic London
0.2 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
0.5 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Restaurant Story
0.7 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.1 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
George
1.1 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Madison
1.4 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Nomadic community
1.7 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Lyle's
1.7 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.9 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Clove Club
2.1 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
2.1 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Sea Containers Restaurant
2.1 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
St. John
2.2 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Traders Gate
0.2 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Tower of London Shop
0.2 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Middlesex Textiles
0.9 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
0.9 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
The Royal Exchange
1.0 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Fashion St
1.1 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
1 Poultry
1.1 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Borough Yards
1.1 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Commercial St
1.2 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Spitalfields Market
1.2 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Bermondsey Antique Market
1.3 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Sclater Street Market
1.3 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.4 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
1.4 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
The Truman Brewery Markets
1.4 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bootlegger
0.6 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
Nine Lives
0.7 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.7 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.8 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Bell
0.8 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Discount Suit Company
0.9 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.0 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
1.0 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.1 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Dirty Dicks
1.1 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.1 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
The Old School Yard
1.2 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Aviary
1.6 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
1.6 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
1.0 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
E1
1.0 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Hoxton Pony
1.9 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
XOYO LONDON
2.0 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Ministry of Sound
2.0 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Trafik
2.1 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
2.3 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Corsica Studios
2.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
London Best Night Clubs
2.4 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Club 701
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.8 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
2.9 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Carwash Nightclub
3.2 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly