Tower of London: Everything You Need to Know

Step into a world of history at the Tower of London, a fortress that has stood proudly on the River Thames for over 900 years. Built by William the Conqueror, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has served as a royal palace, a notorious prison, and the home of the dazzling Crown Jewels. With tales of kings, queens, and legendary ravens, the Tower offers an unforgettable journey through Britain’s past. Whether you’re drawn to its medieval architecture or intrigued by its stories of intrigue, this iconic landmark is a must-visit for anyone exploring London.

Location

The Tower of London is situated at Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB, on the north bank of the River Thames. Its prime location makes it easy to spot, especially with the iconic Tower Bridge nearby. Use GPS or apps like Google Maps to navigate to this central London landmark with ease.

Opening Hours

The Tower is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with the last admission at 4:30 PM. However, hours may vary by season, and some areas, like the Medieval Palace (closed until May 24, 2025) and Chapel Royal (closed until mid-June 2025), may have specific closures. Always check the official opening times page for the latest schedule before your visit.

How to Get There

Getting to the Tower of London is straightforward thanks to its central location:

• By Tube: Take the District or Circle line to Tower Hill station, just a 5-minute walk away.
• By DLR: Tower Gateway station is a 7-minute walk from the Tower.
• By Bus: Routes 15, 42, 78, 100, and RV1 stop near Tower Hill or Great Tower Street.
• By River Boat: Arrive in style at Tower Pier, right next to the entrance, with boats from Westminster or London Eye piers.
• By Car: The closest parking is at Tower Hill Coach and Car Park, a 2-minute walk away, but spaces are limited, and public transport is recommended.
• On Foot: Enjoy a scenic walk along the Thames from central London areas like Westminster or the South Bank.

For real-time travel updates, use apps like TfL Go or Citymapper to plan your route.

Best Time to Visit

To enjoy a quieter visit, aim for weekdays, especially early mornings when the Tower opens or late afternoons. The peak tourist season (May to October) can be crowded, particularly around the Crown Jewels, so consider visiting from November to March for fewer visitors. Arriving early also helps you beat the queues for popular exhibits. Note that special events, like the ceramic poppies display from May 6 to November 11, 2025, may draw larger crowds, so plan accordingly.

Tickets and Costs

Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the ticket office on-site, but booking online via the official website is recommended to secure your time slot and avoid queues. As of 2025, standard ticket prices (excluding optional donation) are:

Ticket Type	Price
Adult (18-64)	£35.80
Child (5-15)	£17.90
Young Person (16-17)	£17.90
Senior (65+)	£28.50
Full-time Student (18+)	£28.50
Disabled Concession	£28.50
Child (0-4)	Free

• Discounts: Family tickets, group rates (15+ people at £33.00), and £1 tickets for Tower Hamlets residents (with proof of residence) are available. Those receiving certain benefits, like Universal Credit, can also access £1 tickets for up to six people per household.
• Inclusions: Tickets cover all open public areas, including the Crown Jewels, White Tower, Battlements, Bloody Tower, Torture at the Tower exhibition, Fusiliers Museum, Royal Mint exhibition, and Yeoman Warder tours (subject to availability).
• Note: Some areas may be closed for conservation (e.g., Middle Tower from June 17 to November 7, 2025), so check the website for updates.

What to Expect

A visit to the Tower of London is a journey through centuries of history. Key highlights include:

• Crown Jewels: Marvel at the royal regalia, including the Imperial State Crown with over 23,000 gemstones, displayed in the Jewel House.
• White Tower: Explore the oldest part of the Tower, featuring exhibits of arms and armor, including Henry VIII’s collection.
• Battlements: Walk the fortress walls for panoramic views and historical insights.
• Bloody Tower: Learn about infamous prisoners like Sir Walter Raleigh.
• Torture at the Tower Exhibition: Discover the grim methods used in the past.
• Fusiliers Museum: Dive into the history of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, formed in 1685.
• Royal Mint Exhibition: See how coins were made when the Tower housed the mint.
• Yeoman Warder Tours: Enjoy lively storytelling from the iconic “Beefeaters,” included in your ticket.

The visit typically takes 2-3 hours, but history buffs may want 3-4 hours to explore thoroughly. On-site facilities include cafes, a restaurant, accessible toilets, and a gift shop with souvenirs like replica jewelry. Audio guides in multiple languages are available for purchase, and a digital visitor guide enhances the experience.

Safety and Accessibility

The Tower ensures a safe and welcoming environment with security checks at the entrance and staff, including Yeoman Warders, available to assist. The historic site has uneven surfaces and stairs, so caution is advised.

For accessibility, the Tower offers:

• Wheelchair Hire: Free, first-come, first-served, available at the entrance.
• Accessible Routes: The Jewel House has level access, and a lift is available in the White Tower for the basement shop.
• British Sign Language Guide: A free digital guide for deaf or hard-of-hearing visitors.
• Audio Described Tours: For blind or partially sighted visitors, with braille displays in the Jewel House.
• Seating: Benches are available at Tower Green and near the New Armouries Café.
• Toilets: Accessible and Changing Places toilets are located in the New Armouries building.

Due to the historic nature of the site, some areas, like the Battlements and Bloody Tower, may have limited access. Check the accessibility page for detailed planning.

History and Background

Founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London began as a fortress to secure his rule over London. The White Tower, completed around 1100, is a stunning example of Norman architecture. Over the centuries, it has been a royal palace, a prison for figures like Anne Boleyn, a treasury, and even a zoo housing exotic animals. Its walls have witnessed pivotal moments, from the signing of the Magna Carta to royal executions.

Fun Facts:

• The Yeoman Warders, or “Beefeaters,” have guarded the Tower since the 16th century, originally protecting the Crown Jewels and prisoners.
• Legend says if the six resident ravens leave, the kingdom will fall, so they are carefully tended by the Ravenmaster.

Nearby Attractions

The Tower’s central location makes it easy to explore other nearby gems:

• Tower Bridge: Right next door, this iconic bridge offers exhibitions and stunning views from its glass walkways (Tower Bridge).
• The Monument: A 10-minute walk away, this column commemorates the Great Fire of 1666 with a viewing platform (The Monument).
• St. Paul’s Cathedral: A 15-minute walk across the river, this architectural masterpiece is a must-see (St. Paul’s).
• Borough Market: A 15-minute walk, perfect for food lovers with its array of global cuisines (Borough Market).
• South Bank: A 20-minute walk along the Thames, home to the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and the London Eye.

Combine your visit with a walk across Tower Bridge and lunch at Borough Market for a perfect London day out.

Practical Tips

To ensure a smooth visit:

• Book in Advance: Secure tickets online to avoid queues, especially during peak seasons.
• Arrive Early: Get there at opening (9:00 AM) to beat crowds, particularly for the Crown Jewels.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Cobblestone paths and stairs require sturdy footwear.
• Dress for Weather: Bring a rain jacket or umbrella, as London’s weather can change quickly.
• Travel Light: Large bags are not allowed, and there are no storage facilities.
• Photography Rules: Photos are permitted in most areas, but not in the Crown Jewels exhibition.
• Join a Tour: Yeoman Warder tours, included in your ticket, offer engaging stories and run every 30 minutes until 3:30 PM.
• Check Closures: Some areas may be closed (e.g., Medieval Palace until May 24, 2025), so verify on the official website.
• Use Audio Guides: Enhance your visit with an audio guide, available in multiple languages.
• Plan for 2-3 Hours: Allow enough time to explore all major exhibits comfortably.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of the Tower of London?

The Tower is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM. Hours may vary by season, so check the official website for updates.

How much does it cost to visit the Tower of London?

Tickets cost £35.80 for adults, £17.90 for children (5-15) and young persons (16-17), £28.50 for seniors, students, and disabled visitors, and free for children under 5. Discounts are available for families, groups, and Tower Hamlets residents (£1 with proof).

Is the Tower of London suitable for children?

Yes, the Tower is family-friendly with interactive exhibits, Yeoman Warder tours, and engaging displays like the Crown Jewels that captivate kids.

Are there any discounts available for the Tower of London?

Discounts include family tickets, group rates (£33.00 for 15+ people), and £1 tickets for Tower Hamlets residents or those on certain benefits, like Universal Credit.

How long does it take to visit the Tower of London?

A typical visit takes 2-3 hours, but history enthusiasts may prefer 3-4 hours to explore all exhibits thoroughly.

Is photography allowed at the Tower of London?

Photography is allowed in most areas, except the Crown Jewels exhibition, where it’s prohibited for security reasons.

Are there guided tours available at the Tower of London?

Yes, Yeoman Warder tours are included in your ticket and run every 30 minutes until 3:30 PM. Audio guides in multiple languages are available for purchase.

What’s the best way to get to the Tower of London from the city center?

Take the Tube to Tower Hill station (District or Circle line), a 5-minute walk away, for the quickest and easiest route.

Is the Tower of London wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Tower offers wheelchair hire, accessible routes, and facilities like a Changing Places toilet. Some areas have limited access due to historic features; check the accessibility page for details.

Are there dining options near the Tower of London?

On-site cafes and a restaurant offer hot meals and snacks. Nearby, Borough Market and other eateries along the Thames provide diverse dining options.