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The White Tower and the outer walls of the Tower of London seen from the River Thames

Castle

Tower of London

The Tower of London has been a royal palace, a fortress, a prison and a place of execution, and it still guards the Crown Jewels. It is about 15 minutes from Westminster on the District or Circle line, or a lovely trip by boat from Westminster Pier.

Why visit

William the Conqueror began the Tower soon after his victory in 1066 to control London, and the great stone keep known as the White Tower still stands at its heart. Over nine centuries it has held royal treasure, prisoners and the Royal Mint, and it remains one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe.

What to see

  • The Crown Jewels: in the Jewel House, including the Imperial State Crown and the Sovereign’s Sceptre with the Cullinan I diamond, also known as the Great Star of Africa.
  • The White Tower: the Norman keep, now home to the Royal Armouries’ collection of armour.
  • A Yeoman Warder tour: the “Beefeaters” lead lively tours full of stories, included in your ticket.
  • The ravens: legend says the kingdom will fall if the ravens leave the Tower, so at least six are always kept here.
  • Traitors’ Gate and the Bloody Tower: the water gate where prisoners arrived, and the tower linked to the Princes in the Tower.
  • Tower Green: where Anne Boleyn and others were executed in private.

Getting there from Westminster

Take the District or Circle line east from Westminster to Tower Hill, a direct ride of about 15 minutes. Or take a boat from Westminster Pier to Tower Pier and see the city from the river. Tower Bridge is right next door, with a glass-floored walkway high above the Thames.

Tips

  • Go straight to the Jewel House when the Tower opens, before the queues build.
  • The Ceremony of the Keys, the nightly locking-up of the Tower, is free but must be booked online, often months ahead.
  • Allow at least three hours, and wear comfortable shoes for the cobbles and stairs.
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