The Tower of London traces its origins to 1078, when William the Conqueror ordered construction of the White Tower to project Norman authority over the newly conquered city. Successive medieval monarchs, notably Henry III and Edward I, expanded the fortress into the concentric castle visible today, adding the moat, curtain walls, and Traitors' Gate. Over nine centuries the complex served as a royal palace, armoury, mint, menagerie, and state prison; queens Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard were executed within its walls, and the Princes in the Tower disappeared here in 1483. The White Tower's Royal Armouries collection displays Henry VIII's armour and a working exhibition of historic weaponry, while the Jewel House holds the Crown Jewels, including the Imperial State Crown and Cullinan I diamond. Yeoman Warders lead the interpretation, presenting the site chronologically from Norman keep through Tudor prison to its role as a garrison during both World Wars. Historic Royal Palaces has managed conservation since 1989, with ongoing stonework restoration to the White Tower's Caen limestone facing and periodic closures of individual towers for repair, while the moat, drained since the 1840s, now hosts seasonal public installations.
| Admission | Adults £34.80 (USD 44.20); children (5–15) £17.40 (USD 22.10); under 5s free; family ticket £87 (USD 110.50) |
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| Hours | Tuesday–Saturday 9am–5:30pm (last entry 5pm); Sunday–Monday 10am–5:30pm; check seasonal hours |
| Address | Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB |
Why it matters
Founded by William the Conqueror after 1066, the Tower of London secured Norman rule over England and served for centuries as royal residence, armoury, and prison, and site of execution for figures including Anne Boleyn and Thomas More.
Location
Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB
51.5081, -0.0759 View on map
Highlights
- Crown Jewels in the Jewel House, including the Imperial State Crown
- White Tower's Royal Armouries collection of historic weapons and armour
- Yeoman Warder ('Beefeater') guided tours included with admission
- Traitors' Gate and the medieval Bloody Tower
- Ceremony of the Keys, London's oldest military ceremony
Tips for visiting
- Book Crown Jewels tickets online in advance to skip the queue at busy periods
- Arrive at opening (9am) to see the Jewel House before tour groups arrive
- Join a free Yeoman Warder tour departing every 30 minutes near the entrance
- Allow at least three hours for the White Tower, Jewel House, and battlements
- The moat pathway and battlement walk are largely step-free; some towers require stairs
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tower of London accessible to visitors who don't speak English?
Multimedia guides are available in several languages and the Yeoman Warder tours are conducted in English, though printed guides in other languages can be requested at the entrance.
How long does a full visit take?
Most visitors spend three to four hours to see the Crown Jewels, White Tower armouries, and a Yeoman Warder tour.
Can the Tower be visited with children?
Yes, the site includes family activities and dedicated children's trails through the fortress.