Tower of London
London, United Kingdom · Landmark
About Tower of London
The Tower of London is an iconic historic fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site located on the north bank of the River Thames. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has served as a royal palace, notorious prison, armory, and place of execution over its long history. Today, it is famous worldwide for housing the magnificent Crown Jewels and retaining its centuries-old traditions.
Don't miss
- Marvel at the dazzling Crown Jewels, which include historic royal coronation regalia and extraordinary gemstones.
- Explore the imposing White Tower to see the Royal Armouries collection and the historic Line of Kings.
- Join a captivating guided walking tour led by an iconic Yeoman Warder, also known as a Beefeater.
- Spot the famous resident ravens wandering the grounds and learn about the legend that binds them to the realm.
Plan your visit
Arrive right at opening on a weekday morning to head straight to the Crown Jewels before the crowds build. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons to visit with pleasant weather and fewer tour groups than the peak summer months.
Admission is paid, and it is strongly advised to book timed-entry tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and skip the ticket office lines.
Take the London Underground to Tower Hill station, which is just a short five-minute walk from the fortress gates. You can also arrive by river bus at Tower Pier for a scenic arrival along the Thames.
Tips for visiting
- Head straight to the Jewel House as soon as you enter the grounds to avoid the longest queues of the day.
- Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes because the fortress features steep medieval stairs and uneven cobblestones.
- Catch a Yeoman Warder tour near the main entrance early in your visit for an engaging introduction to the site.
- Do not attempt to feed or touch the resident ravens, as they are protected wild birds and may peck.
- Download or pick up a fortress map upon arrival to ensure you do not miss hidden areas like the Medieval Palace or the Bloody Tower.
Tower of London FAQ
Can I take photos inside the Crown Jewels exhibition?
No, photography and filming are strictly forbidden inside the Jewel House to protect security and keep the lines moving smoothly. You are welcome to take personal photographs in most outdoor areas and other historical buildings across the fortress.
Is the Tower of London fully accessible for wheelchair users?
The site has limited accessibility due to historic cobblestones, uneven grounds, and numerous steep spiral staircases. However, accessible ramps and lifts are provided in key areas including the Jewel House, and carers are admitted free of charge.
Do I need to pay extra for the Yeoman Warder tours?
No, the famous Yeoman Warder tours are included free of charge with your standard admission ticket. They depart regularly throughout the day near the entrance, though they are conducted exclusively in English.
Are there luggage storage facilities at the Tower of London?
There are no cloakrooms or luggage storage facilities inside the Tower of London, and large bags are not permitted inside. You will need to leave large suitcases at third-party luggage storage points at nearby railway stations such as London Bridge or Fenchurch Street.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: PIRO4D, derwiki on Pixabay.