Tower of London

Standing proudly on the north bank of the Thames, the Tower of London is one of Britain's most iconic historical monuments. Built on the orders of William the Conqueror after 1066, the fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, mint, arsenal, and jewel house over its 900-year history.

The fortress revolves around the White Tower, one of Europe's largest keeps, erected by William the Conqueror in 1078 to awe and intimidate Londoners, demonstrating Norman power over the conquered English. Its strategic position at the eastern boundary of the City made it both a powerful fortress and a gateway to London. It was built from Caen stone imported from Normandy. The tower was whitewashed during Henry III's reign (1216-1272), a face-lift which gave it its name. Its dimensions are impressive, measuring 36 by 32 metres (118 by 105 ft) at the base, and rising to a height of 27 m (90 ft).

The castle complex spans 18 acres within two concentric rings of defensive walls and a moat. The inner ward is protected by 13 towers, including the infamous Bloody Tower, where many prisoners were held, and the Wakefield Tower, which once housed the Crown Jewels. The medieval palace, located in the inner ward, was one of England's most luxurious royal residences until the Tudor period.

Today, the Tower is home to the Crown Jewels, including the Imperial State Crown and Coronation regalia. The fortress is guarded by the iconic Yeoman Warders (nicknamed "Beefeaters"), who have protected the Tower since 1485. The site also houses seven ravens, maintained by the Ravenmaster - according to legend, should the ravens ever leave the Tower, both it and the kingdom would fall.

Visitors can explore the White Tower's Royal Armouries collection, walk the medieval walls, visit the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula (the burial place of executed prisoners including Anne Boleyn), and witness the ancient Ceremony of the Keys - the traditional locking up of the Tower that has taken place every night for over 700 years. The Tower's bloody history as a prison and execution site, combined with its magnificent architecture and royal heritage, makes it one of London's most compelling attractions.

The Tower of London is open daily except December 24-26 and January 1. Summer opening hours (March-October) are Tuesday-Saturday 9am-5:30pm, Sunday-Monday 10am-5:30pm. Winter hours (November-February) close one hour earlier. Tickets include access to all public areas, Yeoman Warder tours, and the Crown Jewels display. The Ceremony of the Keys requires separate advance booking. Photography is permitted in most areas except the Crown Jewels exhibition.

Access Map