Tower Hill Memorial: Tribute to Merchant Seamen Lost at Sea
A solemn tribute in London honoring thousands of merchant seamen lost at sea during the World Wars, set within historic Trinity Square Gardens.
The Tower Hill Memorial in London honors over 36,000 merchant seamen and fishermen who died in both World Wars and have no known grave but the sea. Located in Trinity Square Gardens near the Tower of London, the memorial features two distinct parts: a solemn, vaulted corridor designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens for World War I casualties, and a light, sunken garden by Sir Edward Maufe commemorating World War II losses. It stands as a poignant reminder of the vital maritime contribution and sacrifice during wartime.
A brief summary to Tower Hill Memorial
- Tower Hill, London, EC3N 4DH, GB
- +441628507200
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit both the WWI vaulted corridor and the WWII sunken garden to fully appreciate the contrasting memorial designs.
- Take time to explore Trinity Square Gardens, including the Falklands War memorial and medieval wall remnants.
- The memorial is best experienced in quiet moments, as it offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city surroundings.
- Look for the compass rose in the WWII garden, symbolizing navigation and the seafaring life of those commemorated.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the District or Circle Line to Tower Hill station, located approximately 5 minutes’ walk from the memorial. The station is well-serviced with frequent trains and is fully accessible. Tickets cost between £2.50 and £6.00 depending on travel zones and ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 15, 42, 78, and 100 serve stops near Tower Hill Memorial. The journey time varies from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.65 per ride.
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Riverboat
Riverboat services from Westminster or Greenwich to Tower Pier provide a scenic approach to Tower Hill Memorial. The walk from Tower Pier is about 7 minutes on flat terrain. Tickets range from £7 to £12 for a single journey.
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Walking
From the Tower of London, it is a 5- to 10-minute walk along paved paths through Trinity Square Gardens. The terrain is flat and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.
Tower Hill Memorial 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 Hill Memorial
A Maritime Memorial Rooted in History
Tower Hill Memorial is situated in Trinity Square Gardens, London, close to the iconic Tower of London. This site has long-standing maritime significance, reflecting Britain's deep connection to the sea. The memorial commemorates merchant seamen and fishermen who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars, many of whom have no known grave other than the sea itself. The location was chosen for its proximity to the Port of London and its historical maritime associations, making it a fitting place to honor those who served in Britain's vital merchant navy.Design and Architecture of the Memorial
The memorial consists of two main sections, each reflecting different architectural styles and periods. The First World War section, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and unveiled in 1928 by Queen Mary, is a vaulted corridor reminiscent of a Doric temple. Its walls are clad with bronze panels inscribed with nearly 12,000 names of merchant seamen lost during WWI. This part of the memorial is enclosed and solemn, evoking a sense of reverence and quiet reflection. The Second World War section, completed in 1955 and designed by Sir Edward Maufe, contrasts with the earlier part by being an open, semi-circular sunken garden. It features a compass rose at its center and lists over 24,000 names of those lost in WWII. This garden is lighter and more spacious, inviting contemplation and symbolizing hope amid remembrance. The design complements the surrounding architecture, including the nearby Port of London Authority building.Historical Context and Significance
The memorial was commissioned in response to the heavy losses suffered by merchant shipping during the World Wars. Over 17,000 merchant seamen died in WWI, and the toll was even higher in WWII due to the strategic importance of maritime supply lines and the intense German U-boat campaign. The memorial stands as a testament to their sacrifice and the crucial role the Merchant Navy played in sustaining Britain during wartime. Queen Mary’s unveiling of the WWI memorial in 1928 marked a significant moment, as it was broadcast live on the radio, her first use of the medium. The WWII memorial was unveiled by Queen Elizabeth II in 1955 in a modest ceremony, reflecting the understated nature of the Merchant Navy itself.Additional Memorials and Surroundings
Besides the two main memorials, Trinity Square Gardens also houses a memorial to those lost in the Falklands War, marked by an anchor statue. The gardens contain remnants of medieval walls built on Roman foundations, adding layers of historical depth to the site. The imposing Port of London Authority building overlooks the gardens, with the statue of Father Thames symbolically watching over the maritime heritage commemorated here.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Despite its central London location, the Tower Hill Memorial offers a peaceful and contemplative environment. The enclosed WWI corridor and the open WWII garden create contrasting moods—intimate solemnity and serene openness. Visitors often find the space insulated from the city's noise, encouraging quiet reflection on the sacrifices made by merchant seamen and fishermen.Legacy and Continuing Remembrance
The Tower Hill Memorial remains a vital site of remembrance for those who served in the Merchant Navy and fishing fleets. It honors those with no known grave and ensures their names and sacrifices are not forgotten. The memorial’s presence near the Tower of London, a symbol of British history and resilience, underscores the enduring importance of maritime service to the nation’s past and present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tower Hill Memorial
0.0 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
1 Tower Hl Ter
0.1 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
London Wall
0.1 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
Roman Wall of Londinium
0.2 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
0.2 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
Custom House
0.4 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
0.5 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
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Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
0.6 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.6 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
St Helen's Church, Bishopsgate
0.6 km
Medieval dual-nave church with 800+ years of history, royal relics, and remarkable resilience.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
0.7 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
London Bridge
0.7 km
Historic London Bridge, a vital Thames crossing blending centuries of engineering with modern urban life.
Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue
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Discover the Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue near Tower Bridge, a captivating tribute to London's rich artistic heritage and history.
Lombard St
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Explore the iconic Lombard Street, London's 'Crookedest Street,' featuring stunning architecture and charming gardens in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trinity Square
0.1 km
A dignified London square where imperial architecture, ancient walls, and solemn memorials meet beside the Tower of London.
8-12 Tower Hill
0.1 km
Historic Tower Hill in London, where ancient walls meet iconic landmarks and vibrant riverside life unfolds.
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.
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.
Trinity House
0.1 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage at Trinity House, London's historic center for navigation and seamanship, featuring stunning architecture and captivating exhibits.
Gunpowder Plot: The Immersive Experience
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in the thrilling 1605 Gunpowder Plot with live actors, authentic vaults, and cutting-edge VR at Tower Hill Vaults.
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.
All Hallows by the Tower
0.1 km
Discover London's oldest church, a historic gem beside the Tower, where Roman, Saxon, and medieval layers tell tales of resilience and heritage.
Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula
0.1 km
Historic Tudor chapel within the Tower of London, resting place of executed royalty and a vibrant parish church for over 500 years.
The Crown Jewels
0.1 km
Explore the dazzling Crown Jewels collection, a symbol of British monarchy and history, housed securely within the iconic Tower of London.
Tower of London
0.2 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.
St Olave's Church, Hart Street
0.2 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.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
0.2 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill offering seasonal classics and craft ales in a setting steeped in London's dramatic past.
Lanthorn Tower
0.3 km
Step into the Lanthorn Tower to explore the medieval royal lodgings and rich history of the Tower of London’s riverside palace.
St Dunstan in the East Church Garden
0.3 km
A peaceful historic garden oasis in the heart of London’s financial district, blending Gothic ruins with lush greenery and tranquil charm.
Essential places to dine
La Dame de Pic London
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Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
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Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Restaurant Story
0.8 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
0.9 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
1.3 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Lyle's
1.6 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Nomadic community
1.6 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
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
2.0 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
2.0 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
St. John
2.0 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Traders Gate
0.1 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
0.7 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
0.8 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
The Royal Exchange
0.8 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
1 Poultry
1.0 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Fashion St
1.0 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Commercial St
1.1 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
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.
Spitalfields Market
1.1 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Sclater Street Market
1.2 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.3 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
1.3 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
1.3 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
One New Change
1.3 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bootlegger
0.5 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.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.6 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.6 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Bell
0.7 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Nine Lives
0.8 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Discount Suit Company
0.8 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
0.8 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Astronomer, EC1
0.9 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Dirty Dicks
0.9 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
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 Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.0 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
1.3 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
1.5 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
1.5 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
1.5 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
0.9 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
1.1 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Hoxton Pony
1.8 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
XOYO LONDON
1.9 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Trafik
2.0 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
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.
Basing House - Shoreditch
2.1 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
London Best Night Clubs
2.3 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Corsica Studios
2.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
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
2.8 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.
Club 701
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
Carwash Nightclub
3.0 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly