Tower of London

The Tower of London stands on the north bank of the Thames in central London, its massive stone walls enclosing nearly a millennium of English history. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, the complex grew over successive centuries to incorporate the White Tower (the original Norman keep), Traitors' Gate, Bloody Tower, and thirteen towers in all. Visitors entering through the Middle Tower and Byward Tower immediately encounter the scale of the fortification. The undisputed centrepiece is the Crown Jewels display in the Jewel House, where the Imperial State Crown, Sovereign's Orb, and Sceptre with the Cross are displayed under tight security. The queue for the jewels moves on travelators, giving each visitor a prolonged but controlled view. The White Tower houses the Royal Armouries collection, including Henry VIII's ceremonial armour and a line of royal suits of armour arranged by age. The medieval palace apartments show what royal life looked like in the 13th and 14th centuries. On the outer walls, ravens are kept by royal decree — legend holds that the kingdom will fall if all six ever leave. Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) lead free tours from the Middle Tower roughly every 30 minutes; their mix of history, humour, and gruesome anecdote about prisoners such as Anne Boleyn and Thomas More makes the tour a highlight for many visitors. A typical visit lasts two to three hours; the Crown Jewels and White Tower alone account for most of that time. From Tower Wharf immediately outside, the view of Tower Bridge is outstanding.