visit the crown jewels london

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Visiting the Crown Jewels

This post covers visiting the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London, including what they are, where they are kept, and, how you can get tickets to see them.  

You can skip this post and purchase tickets to the Tower of London and Crown Jewels here.

• Plan Your Visit
• What Are the Crown Jewels?
• Guided Tours
• Things to Do in London

TICKETS FOR THE CROWN JEWELS

Access to see the Crown Jewels is included with a ticket to the Tower of London .  

You can also purchase a tourist pass and use that to enter without waiting in line for tickets.

In particular, the  London Pass  and the  Explorer Pass  offer a cost-effective way to visit the Crown Jewels and skip the queue.

• Adults:  £29.90 | Concession: £24
• Children (5-15): £14.90 | Under 5: FREE
• Pre-purchase tickets  to skip the queue

EARLY ACCESS TICKETS

If you're planning to take a tour of the Tower of London, it's worth noting that tickets are included with some outings from Take Walks.

One of their more popular options is a tour which includes early access to the Crown Jewels, allowing you to avoid the lines and get in before everyone else!

Early Access Tower of London Tour

• £74/Adults | £69/Children
• Duration: 2 ½ - 3 hours
• Hours: 8:30 am
• Includes early entry to the Tower of London.
• Includes first entry to the Jewel House.

London in a Day

• £129/Adults | £119/Children
• Duration: 8 hours
• Hours: 9 am
• Includes Tower of London admission.
• Includes Westminster Abbey admission.
• Includes a Thames River cruise.

This section will cover all the best ways to save money on tickets to the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels, including details about discount sites and tourist passes.

1. Use a Tourist Pass

Several London tourist passes include admission to the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels at no additional cost.

These services typically offer access to dozens of attractions and activities for one low price, allowing you to save 50% or more off standard ticket prices.

Currently, the following passes provide tickets to this attraction:

• The London Pass
• London Explorer Pass
• London City Card

If you want to learn more about how these services work, make sure to read our full post covering London tourist passes .

2. Combo Packages

If you're planning to visit multiple attractions in London, these combo deals provide a discount on tickets for the Tower of London and one other activity or landmark.

Tower Bridge + Tower of London

• £41.30/Adults | £20.60/Children (5-15) | £32.60/Concessions
• Includes admission to the Tower of London and Crown Jewels
• Includes admission to the Tower Bridge Exhibition
• Purchase tickets or learn more .

Tower of London + The Shard

• £52.11/Adults | £38.61/Children (5-15) | £46.80/Concessions
• Includes admission to the Shard Observation Deck

Tower of London + London Eye

• £76.86/Adults | £57.85/Children (5-15) | £71.25/Concessions
• Includes admission to the London Eye

Tower of London + Kew Gardens and Palace

• £46.93/Adults | £18.91/Children (5-15)
• £39.43/Concessions | £36.96/Students/Youth (16-29)
• Includes admission to Kew Gardens and Palace

Tower of London + Queen's Gallery

• £44.56/Adults | £22.71/Children (5-15) | £38.95/Concessions
• Includes admission to the Queen's Gallery

3. Use a Discount Site

There are several websites like Discount London and Groupon that frequently offer deals on tickets for local activities and attractions, including the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels.

In addition to their already low prices, these services usually also offer extra coupon codes to help you save even more money!

4. 2 For 1 Deal

If you're planning to use the National Rail to get around, you might be able to save a lot of money on tickets to the Tower of London.

Find out more about the 2-for-1 deal or learn how to take advantage of this discount .

5. Family Tickets

Families planning to visit the Tower of London will want to take advantage of the family ticket options:

• £52.20/Family (1 Adult, 2-3 Children)
• £82.10/Family (2 Adults, 2-3 Children)
• Purchase Family Tickets or learn more .

6. Tower Hamlets Resident Discount

If you live within the borough of Tower Hamlets and you have an Idea Store card or library card, you can visit the Tower of London for only £1.

Check our post on the Tower of London for more Discount options!

PLAN YOUR VISIT

There are a lot of details to consider before going to see the Crown Jewels.

This section will provide information about the best times to visit, how to get here, and what to expect.

For more details, make sure to read our post about visiting the Tower of London .

Summer Hours (June 1st – September 18th)

• 9:00 – 17:30 (5:30 pm)

Winter Hours

• 9:00 – 16:30 (4:30 pm)
• 10:00 – 16:30 (4:30 pm) *last entry at 4 pm

Best Times to Visit

Some visitors recommend getting there as early as possible and heading straight to the Crown Jewels.

Due to their popularity, the only way to ensure you won't be waiting in line for a while is to get there while the crowds are still relatively small.

Consider arriving at the Tower of London right when it opens and doing your best to see this attraction between the hours of 9 am - 10 am .

To save time, consider an early bird tour that gets you into the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels before the general public.

Several guests also indicate you'll run into fewer crowds during weekday mornings than during the weekend.

They also note that weather can play a factor, as people are far less likely to visit the Tower of London on a rainy day than when the sun is out. 

What to Expect

Most people who choose to visit the Tower of London will spend at least 15-30 minutes in line waiting to see the Crown Jewels.

Plan on setting aside at least 45-60 minutes for the entire experience.

Many visitors recommend setting aside at least 3 hours to see the entirety of the Tower of London.

Several guests note that even that might not be enough time for everything, so prepare for the possibility that you will spend up to 5 hours at this landmark.

Please keep in mind that you will not be able to take any photographs while visiting the Crown Jewels. Cameras are strictly forbidden and visitors are not allowed to take pictures.

Be aware that guards may try to stop you if any attempt is made to use a camera or snap a shot of this exhibit.

WHAT ARE THE CROWN JEWELS?

One of the most enduring symbols of Monarchy, and the centrepiece of the Royal Collection, in the United Kingdom is the Crown Jewels and no visit to London should be undertaken without a visit to see this most stunning of collections.

The Jewels have been available for the public to observe for centuries and millions have traveled from around the world just to see these most remarkable creations. 

More than just a collection of crowns, the Crown Jewels actually encompass present and past crowns belonging to Sovereigns, Consorts, and Princes of Wales, scepters, rings, swords, orbs, spurs, robes, bracelets, and gold and silver plates!  

The ceremonial and symbolic objects used during the coronations of British Kings and Queens are collectively known as the Regalia.

Not just used for their beauty, these are the most treasured and revered items in the Crown Jewels, as these are the pieces that are used in the centuries-old coronation ceremonies.

The Jewels are the most powerful symbols of Monarchy, although technically they do not belong to the royal family but to the nation - and they hold both cultural and religious significance.

It is lucky that the jewels are on display today as throughout their history they have variously been lost (by King John in 1216), used as collateral (by Edward III in the 1370s), pawned (by the wife of King Charles I in the 1640s), broken down and sold during the English Civil War (by Oliver Cromwell), and nearly stolen (by Colonel Thomas Blood in 1671)!

The majority of the pieces on display today date from the 17 th century.

In 1660 King Charles II had a new set of Royal Regalia made – the ones on display today – however, there is one artifact that dates from before this time: the 12 th century Anointing Spoon (sometimes referred to as the coronation spoon) – still used in coronation ceremonies today.

When Charles commissioned the Crown Jewels, he spent the princely sum of £13,000.00 (around £1 million in today’s money).

He also spent a further £18,000 to create a set of banqueting plates and a golden altar, as well as a baptism font.

There are actually two baptism fonts held at the Tower of London today.

The first is the original commissioned by King Charles II but the second dates from the reign of Queen Victoria.

King Charles II is particularly notable for his string of mistresses and illegitimate children, many of whom he officially acknowledged and had baptised in the royal font.

Queen Victoria, a staunchly conservative woman, refused to have any of her children baptized in the same font as Charles II’s ‘bastards’ so she insisted that a new one, known as the Lily Font, be created just for her family!

Historically, the Jewels were kept behind bars and visitors were able to put their hands through the railings and touch the Jewels! Today, of course, such easy access to the Jewels is strictly prohibited.

Visitors to the Tower wishing to see the Crown Jewels will find them in the Jewel House currently in use, dating from 1994.

Visitors enter through vault doors containing electronic beams and steel shutters. The vault doors are said to be able to withstand a nuclear bomb blast!

All the jewels on display are resting on French velvet, and are kept behind 2in (51mm) thick shatter-proof glass and filtered air circulates in the cases that hold the Jewels.

Note that Scotland has their own Crown Jewels, kept at Edinburgh Castle , known as the Honours of Scotland. The collection includes a crown (made for King James V), a sceptre and a sword of state. The Honours were sealed away somewhere inside the castle after the union of Scotland and England and, eventually, their whereabouts were forgotten. They were uncovered in 1818 by Sir Walter Scott.

At one time, there were state Jewels of Ireland but these were stolen in 1907 and never recovered.

The following list highlights the most famous pieces of royal regalia, explaining what they are and how they are used.

St Edward’s Crown  

Dating from 1661, and considered the principal piece of the Regalia, this is the crown that is worn at the moment the monarch is crowned in Westminster Abbey.

The crown is named after Edward the Confessor and its’ last usage was at the coronation of our current King Charles III in May 2023.

This is the crown used as a symbol by the King and is the one depicted in coats of arms, badges, money, and other insignias (including the side of our famous red telephone boxes!) throughout the entire Commonwealth.

Weighing nearly 5 lbs, Queen Victoria chose not to be crowned with St. Edward’s because of the weight!

The Imperial State Crown  

This is easily the most famous piece of the Crown Jewels.

The Imperial State Crown dates from 1937 and is still used today – this being the crown that the Sovereign wears each year at the State Opening of Parliament.

The Crown consists of a purple velvet cap with an ermine border and holds 2,868 diamonds, 273 pearls, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, and 5 rubies.

The Crown famously is also home to Cullinan II (a cut of the largest diamond ever found at 3,106 carats and cut into 9 different pieces!), St. Edward’s Sapphire (thought to date from 1042), and the Black Prince’s Ruby (thought to date from the 14 th  century and weighing in at 170 carats).

The Crown of Queen Elizabeth , the Queen Mother

Made for Queen Elizabeth, the wife of King George VI in 1937 (our current King’s grandparents), the Crown of Queen Elizabeth was the first crown for a British consort made out of platinum. 

The arches on this crown are detachable so that it may be worn as a circlet instead (as she wore it during the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II).

It is set with 2,800 diamonds and holds the most famous diamond in the Royal Regalia: the Koh-i-Noor .

Previously the largest known diamond, originating in India and coming in at 793 carats uncut, visitors come from around the world simply to see this stunning diamond.

The Crown of Queen Mary

Originally created for Mary of Teck, wife of King George V, in 1911, the Crown of Queen Mary was designed to hold the previously mentioned Koh-i-Noor. Today, however, it contains Cullinan III, IV and V, in addition to 2,200 other diamonds. It has been used throughout the decades by various members of the royal family as a circlet.

It has been on display at the Tower of London since the death of Queen Mary in 1953. In 2023, the crown was partially altered and used for the coronation of Queen Camilla.

Sovereign’s Orb  

The Sovereign Orb weighs 42 ounces, is surrounded by pearls and gemstones, and was made for the coronation of King Charles II in 1660. 

Symbolically, the Orb represents the Monarch’s role as Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England.

The orb is placed in the Monarch’s right hand by the Archbishop of Canterbury during the coronation.

At the end of the ceremony, it is carried in the left hand, and in the right, the Sceptre [below] is held.

The Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross  

Also known as St. Edward’s Sceptre or the Royal Sceptre, this piece holds The Star of Africa, or Cullinan I, a second cut of the same diamond found in the Imperial State Crown that was set into place in 1910.

Cullinan I, gifted to Kind Edward VII by the Transvaal Government, is still the largest colourless cut diamond in the entire world, weighing in at 530 carats.

This gem can be removed from the sceptre and worn as a broach.

Click here for the  official Crown Jewels website . 

WHERE ARE THE CROWN JEWELS KEPT?

Guarded by Yeomen Warders , the jewels are kept in The Jewel House at the Tower of London, where this precious collection has been held since the 14 th century.  

We recommend using this Google map for directions to the Crown Jewels from anywhere in London.

The Tower of London is from the Tower Hill Underground Station, but it's also within walking distance from the Monument, London Bridge, and a few other stations.

The Tower of London is located adjacent to the Tower Bridge .

If you are considering purchasing a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket, keep in mind that all the major companies have stops at the Tower of London , and some offer discount combo tickets.  

Read our post comparing London bus companies .

How to Find Them

The Crown Jewels are found at the Jewel House near the center of His Majesty's Fortress, The Tower of London landmark.

The building containing this attraction is located right next to the St. Peter Ad Vincula Royal Chapel and the Fusilier Museum.

Use the map below to orient yourself and find your way to this famous site.

You also might be interested in:

• Our calendar of free guided tours .
• Our tip for visiting the Tower of London for free .
• The Ceremony of the Keys

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See the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

Tower hill, greater london.

See the stunning Crown Jewels on display at the historic Tower of London, and learn about their profound religious and cultural importance.

Part of Royal Collection, the Crown Jewels comprise the finest treasures of the British Monarchy – each piece possessing its own fascinating story. The original Crown Jewels were destroyed at the Tower of London after the Civil War, then remade for Charles II’s coronation in 1661 – and have had a few narrow escapes since then too. Look out for the largest colourless cut diamond in the world, the Cullinan I diamond, which was affixed to the 17th century Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross in 1910. Imagine the weight of the solid gold St Edward's Crown, worn by The Queen at her coronation. And admire the famous Koh-i-Nûr diamond, set in the crown of the late Queen Mother. But the Tower is far from just a display cabinet for the Crown Jewels, and has its own dark history – involving torture, murder and royal execution. Not to be missed!

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Visiting the Crown Jewels at Tower of London

This is an incredible opportunity to explore London’s iconic castle and World Heritage Site. In this guide we are going to explain how to get up close to the Crown Jewels in London.

There are different tours and tickets that you can buy to visit the Crown Jewels depending on the websites that you visit. But the regular ticket to visit the Tower of London includes the Crown Jewels, which we recommend in this article as it is a “skip the line” ticket and costs the same as the regular ticket.

The highlights of the visit to the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels are the ravens, the public outside areas of the Tower of London , the White Tower, including the Line of Kings, Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula, Bloody Tower, Medieval Palace, Torture at the Tower exhibition, Fusiliers Museum and the Royal Mint exhibition. Remember that the Yeoman Warder guided tours are also available daily.

Ticket prices to visit the Crown Jewels

If you are going to visit different attractions while visiting London remember that the visit to Tower of London and the Crown Jewels are included in the London Pass and we have got a 10% discount code for you. You can find out more by visiting our article here: London Pass .

• Members : Free
• Adult : £29.90
• Child : £14.90

If you would like to buy a “skip the line” ticket that includes both Tower of London + the Crown Jewels, then this is the best option:

Crown Jewels: Opening Times

Winter (1st november to 28th february).

• Mondays and Sundays: 10.00-16.30. Last admission: 15.30.
• Tuesday – Saturday: 09.00-16.30. Last admission: 15.30.
• Last Yeoman Warder guided tour (included in your ticket): 14.30.

24, 25 and 26 December: Closed

27 December to 31 December 09.00-16.30. Last admission: 15.30. Last Yeoman Warder guided tour (included in your ticket): 14.30.

01 January: Closed

02 January to 03 January: 09.00-16.30. Last admission: 15.30. Last Yeoman Warder guided tour (included in your ticket): 14.30.

04 and 05 January: Closed

06 January to 10 February:

11 February to 19 February:

• 09.00-16.30. Last admission: 15.30.
• Sunday 19 February: 10.00-16.30. Last admission: 15.30.

20 February to 28 February:

Summer (1st March 2023 to 30th October 2023)

• Mondays and Sundays: 10.00-17.30. Last admission: 16.30. Tuesday – Saturday: 09.00-17.30. Last admission: 16.30.
• Monday 1 May: 09.00-17.30. Last admission: 16.30.
• Monday 29 May: 09.00-17.30. Last admission: 16.30.
• Last Yeoman Warder guided tour: 15.30

Public Viewing Path opening times (entry to the path by ticket only)

• The path is open daily from 09:00 – 22:30.
• The first time slot is 09:00 to 09:15.
• The last time slot is 21:45 to 22:00.

Getting to the Tower of London & Crown Jewels

The Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB, ( see on Google Maps ) is located within easy walking distance of several mainline stations, including:

• 10-15 mins walk from London Bridge Station
• 20 min walk from Liverpool Street Station
• 25 min walk from London Charing Cross Station

You can also travel by river boat. Tower Pier is served by river boats travelling from various piers including Westminster and London Eye and is located next to the Tower entrance.

Visiting the Crown Jewels & Tower of London

To give you an idea, the last time we visited the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels, it took us around 3 hours and 30 minutes to see everything. It was a day that it wasn’t too busy, but we had our little ones with us, so we walked slowly… 🙂

The Crown Jewels are located in the building known as “Jewel House” (did you expect a different name?) built in 1994 on the specially restored ground floor of the Waterloo Block of the Tower of London, near the centre of the Tower, next to the Chapel of St. Peter Ad Vincula Royal. See Tower of London Map .

During your visit you will spend most of the time visiting the Tower of London and the different buildings around as visiting the Crown Jewels doesn’t take more than 20 mins approx. if it’s not too busy.

Once inside, the display is organised to follow the same order in which the jewels are used in the coronation ceremony. A slow-moving conveyor mechanism around the Jewels prevents overcrowding in front of the display cases containing the precious masterpieces. (Yes, they got tired of asking people to “keep moving, please!”).

When is the best time to visit the Crown Jewels?

This depends on the time of the year you visit. If you are visiting the Tower of London during Easter, Summer or Christmas, I recommend you arrive early, around 20 mins before they open. It´s probably best to go directly to the Crown Jewels building before visiting all the other parts of the Tower of London, as the queue to get in tends to get very long past 11 am.

If you have a choice, I would recommend going during the week and avoiding the weekend if possible.

The Crown Jewels:  A magnificent world-famous collection of 23,578 gemstones

The Crown Jewels, part of the Royal Collection, are the most powerful symbols of the British Monarchy and hold deep religious and cultural significance in our nation’s history. The mystique and beauty of the diamonds and precious jewels in the royal regalia have always held an unparalleled allure to visitors from across the globe.

From February 2020, HRH The Prince of Wales’s Investiture Coronet is on display in the Jewel House for the first time. The coronet, part of the Royal Collection, has joined the coronets of two other Princes of Wales.

For the investiture as Prince of Wales at Caernarfon Castle on 1 July 1969, Prince Charles wore the contemporary coronet designed by architect and goldsmith Louis Osman. The coronet is made of gold and platinum and set with diamonds and emeralds with a purple velvet and ermine cap of estate.

Alongside the coronet, the rod used in the 1969 investiture, previously made for the 1911 investiture, is also on display.

You’ll find the Crown Jewels under armed guard in the Jewel House at the Tower of London. These gems are a unique working collection of royal regalia and are still regularly used by royalty for important national ceremonies, such as the State Opening of Parliament. Make sure to look out for the ‘in use’ signs.

Coronation ceremonies have occurred in Westminster Abbey since 1066, the great church founded by Edward the Confessor. The displays examine how the royal regalia are used during the ceremony and explore the symbolism of each object. The Crown Jewels were destroyed at the Tower after the Civil War and remade for Charles II’s coronation in 1661. They signify the royal authority to lead and protect the nation. ( Source: Royal Collection Trust Home – https://www.rct.uk/ )

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The British Crown Jewels

Visiting the british crown jewels at the tower of london.

Throughout the ages, British monarchs have donned and displayed various jewels, regalia, and treasures that have been collectively dubbed as the British Crown Jewels. They have a long, detailed, and quite turbulent history about them, and most of today’s collection dates back to the 17th century. The British Crown Jewels with their illustrious history are one of the more popular attractions in London and are symbols of wealth, status, and power.

What Are the British Crown Jewels

The British Crown Jewels are a collection of 140 ceremonial objects that have been collected throughout the ages and have suffered the fate of historical vandalism at a certain point in time when they were perceived to be useless and redundant. They represent the sovereignty of the ruling monarch of the United Kingdom, and this collection includes crowns of every monarch that has ruled Great Britain, as well as scepters, swords, rings, and many other pieces of regalia. When the Commonwealth was created, Oliver Cromwell dictated the Crown Jewels to be smelted or sold, so the only piece of regalia that survived the Commonwealth is the golden Ampulla and spoon.

Some of the British Crown Jewels including “St Edward’s Crown, the Crown of England, which weighs nearly five pounds, the Orb of solid gold, the Sceptre with the Cross, Sceptre with the Dove, and the Ring. Photo Credit: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons .

Where Are the British Crown Jewels

For hundreds of years, the British Crown Jewels have been kept safely under guard in the Jewel House at the Tower of London. They’re being guarded by the Yeoman Warders better known as Beefeaters whose sole task is ensuring the protection of these beautiful historical artifacts at all times and all costs. But there is one exception for that case – in World War II some of the British Crown Jewels were hidden in a biscuit tin and buried under Windsor Castle so that they could fall in the hands of the Nazis. That was a very desperate measure, and not even the Queen herself knew of all the details concerning their safety. While she was safely away at Windsor Castle herself, she had no knowledge of the British Crown Jewels being buried in one of the secret exits, and all under the order of her father, King George VI.

How Much are the British Crown Jewels Worth

It’s not an easy task to estimate the worth of all of these precious objects. There may not even be an answer to such a specific question, but it is possible to have an estimate for the worth of at least some of the pieces of the regalia. But even if the worth is precisely calculated there is no chance of them ever being sold again, so that point would probably fall mute. However, in the entire collection, there are also 24 thousand precious stones, and that includes the Cullinan I, which is the largest clearcut diamond in the entire world at 530 karats.

There are also other priceless artifacts in the British Crown Jewels such as the coronation spoon, and that one dates all the way back to the 12th century when the monarch was anointed as Supreme Governor of the Church of England. Queen Elizabeth herself was presented her own piece of regalia in the form of 22 karat gold armils – a medieval type of bracelet. The Cullinan I itself is said to be worth over 400 million pounds, and when every other piece of regalia is added, there is an estimate of over 3 billion pounds, but even that is not clear since the Crown Jewels themselves aren’t insured because of their priceless nature. So that’s why they’re being kept safe under lock, key, and guard at all times – not only because of their pricelessness but also their worth as a status symbol of the British Royal Family.

British Crown Jewels: Imperial State Crown. Photo Credit: © Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons .

Other Interesting Facts about the British Crown Jewels

Given the immense worth and power behind these genuinely fascinating pieces of regalia, it’s not surprising that there have been numerous attempts at theft of the British Crown Jewels including one that remains a mystery. St. Edward’s Crown was stolen by Colonel Thomas Blood with three accomplices, and once they were found, Blood was offered a private audience with King Charles II. After the audience, Blood was given a full pardon and even pension, and it’s been speculated that the King was in fact behind the theft because he was short on money.

Another fascinating tale is when King William’s coronation came his crown was so heavy that it gave a devastating toothache. Instead of wearing a different crown he chose to remove the tooth instead. Also, Queen Elizabeth believes that some of the pearls from St. Edwards crown to be alive – it is said they belonged to Mary Queen of the Scots, and after her execution was purchased by Queen Victoria I. It’s described that Queen Elizabeth has a particular fondness for those pearls and that she feels they’re like living things that need warmth like all the other living creatures.

British Crown Jewels: Coronation Spoon and Coronation Swords. Photo Credit: © Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons .

Visiting the British Crown Jewels

Today, the British Crown Jewels are kept safe in the Tower of London where millions of people continue to visit to look at these fantastic pieces of jewelry, swords, scepters, diamonds, and regalia. What’s unique about them, besides their worth and aesthetic, is that each item has its own history and is tied to many events, some of which have been downright bloody and brutal. The Tower of London which is often included in our London Highlights Tour is a fascinating place as is not only used as a place to store the jewels. In fact, it’s a famous historical building where plenty of significant events have happened throughout the ages, seeing as the building has stood intact for centuries and is still seeing full use to this day. No visit to London would be complete without seeing the mysterious Tower of London or the British Crown Jewels safely stored within, so make sure to include on your tour of London.

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Copyright © 2000–2021 Guidelines to Britain Ltd. Image copyright and permissions: English Heritage, Ruth Rossington, Nicky Rochussen Errors & Omissions Excepted. Terms & Conditions. Licensed Private Hire Vehicle Operator No. 01725. Guidelines to Britain is a limited company registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 02362514. Website designed in London by Reaper Enterprises

The Crown Jewels - A Dazzling Legacy

The tower of london.

The Crown Jewels are not only a collection of unparalleled beauty but also a living representation of the British monarchy's history, tradition, and ceremonial splendor. They continue to captivate and intrigue, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at their splendor. A visit to the Tower of London, with the Crown Jewels as its centerpiece, offers a unique glimpse into the heritage and heart of the United Kingdom.

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Looking to Visit The Tower Of London in 2024.

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Embark on a Journey Through Time and Treasure

The Crown Jewels, housed in the iconic Tower of London, stand as a breathtaking testament to the opulence, history, and enduring mystique of the British monarchy.

This exquisite collection, comprising over 100 objects and 23,578 gemstones, encapsulates the pomp and pageantry of coronations and royal ceremonies that have dazzled onlookers for centuries. From the solemnity of coronation regalia to the splendor of orbs, sceptres, and crowns, the Crown Jewels offer a window into the soul of the United Kingdom.

A Collection Like No Other

The heart of the Crown Jewels is the coronation regalia, used in the crowning of England's monarchs. Among these sacred items, the St. Edward's Crown, made of solid gold and adorned with gems, stands out as the centrepiece. Used at the moment of coronation, it symbolizes the monarch's authority and has been a key feature of this solemn ceremony since the 13th century.

The Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, another highlight, features the world's largest colorless cut diamond, the Cullinan I, also known as the Star of Africa. This sceptre represents the temporal power of the monarch, a tradition that dates back to the first millennium.

The Imperial State Crown, worn by the monarch at the end of the coronation ceremony and at the State Opening of Parliament, dazzles with over 2,868 diamonds, among them the historic Cullinan II diamond, and other precious stones including sapphires, emeralds, and pearls.

The Yeoman Warders

The famous Yeoman Warders are one of The Royal Parks of London. With several gardens and art galleries on site, there is much to see.

Here are some of the most popular features.

Yeoman Warders

The Tower Ravens

Welcome to Kensington Palace, the birthplace of Queen Victoria, based in the heart of London. This beautiful historic palace allows visitors to experience the living spaces where many royal family members have been brought up over hundreds of years.

The Ravens at the Tower of London

Tours & Tickets 2024

Kensington Palace is one of London’s top attractions, drawing in visitors with the allure of the British royal family, gorgeous architecture and tranquil gardens in the middle of a bustling city. Let's take a look at some of the highlights that simply can’t be missed.

Tower Of London Tours

More Than Just Gems

Beyond their aesthetic value, the Crown Jewels are steeped in history and symbolism. Each piece tells a story, from the medieval anointing spoon, the oldest item in the collection, to the modern pieces that have been added over the centuries. They embody the continuity and stability of the British monarchy through times of change and turmoil.

The collection also includes robes, swords, rings, and other regalia, each with its own history and ceremonial importance. The Coronation Spoon, for instance, has been used in every coronation since the 12th century to anoint the monarch with holy oil, symbolizing their divine right to rule.

Visiting the Crown Jewels

Located in the Jewel House at the Tower of London, the Crown Jewels attract millions of visitors each year. The exhibition is designed to give guests an immersive experience, with multimedia displays that illuminate the history and significance of these treasures. For many, the opportunity to see these symbols of royal power and ceremony up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Visiting the Tower of London in 2024

With an admission ticket to the Tower of London, visitors gain access to a wide range of exhibits, displays, and historical sites within the Tower complex. By booking your ticket and arrival slot online in advance, you can help ensure your visit goes to plan.

Opening Times

Opening hours can vary throughout the year, including seasonal adjustments and special events that might affect accessibility. Generally, the Tower of London opens at 9:00 or 10:00 AM and closes between 4:30 and 5:30 PM, with last admission usually an hour before closing.

Accessibility

The Tower of London strives to be accessible to visitors with disabilities, but due to its historic nature, some areas may present challenges. The Tower is a large complex with uneven paving, narrow staircases, and some areas that are not accessible by wheelchair.

Wheelchair Access: Certain areas of the Tower, including the Jewel House (home to the Crown Jewels) and the Main Gift Shop, are wheelchair accessible. The Tower also provides wheelchairs for loan.

Visual Impairments: Assistance dogs are welcome, and some resources may be available to support visually impaired visitors.

Hearing Impairments: Induction loops are installed at ticket counters and some exhibition spaces.

Accessible Toilets: These are available at several locations within the Tower.

Visitors Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit the tower of london, can i take photographs inside the tower of london.

Yes, you can take photographs inside the Tower of London for personal use. However, photography is not allowed in some specific areas, such as the Jewel House, where the Crown Jewels are displayed, and the Martin Tower, which houses the Royal Mint exhibition.

These restrictions are in place to protect the items on display and ensure the security of the site. It's always a good idea to check for any signage indicating photography restrictions or to ask a member of staff if you're unsure.

Commercial photography and the use of tripods may require permission in advance. Remember to be respectful of the historical site and other visitors when taking photos.

Can I buy tickets for the Tower of London online prior to my visit?

Is there a guided tour available at the tower of london.

Yes, guided tours are available at the Tower of London and are conducted by the Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who are the ceremonial guardians of the Tower.

These tours are included in the price of admission and offer a fascinating insight into the history of the Tower, its famous residents, and its role in British history.

The Yeoman Warders share stories and anecdotes, bringing to life the Tower's past, including tales of intrigue, imprisonment, execution, and more.

The tours start near the main entrance and last approximately one hour. It's a highly recommended experience for visitors wanting to learn more about the Tower of London's rich and sometimes gruesome history.

No booking is required for these tours; however, they can be quite popular, so it's advisable to join a tour upon arrival.

Is the Tower of London accessible for people with disabilities?

The Tower of London strives to be accessible to visitors with disabilities, but due to its historic nature, some areas may present challenges. The Tower is a large complex with uneven paving, narrow staircases, and some areas that are not accessible by wheelchair. However, there are facilities and services in place to help ensure that visitors with disabilities can enjoy their visit:

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

Are food and beverages available inside the tower of london, are there any nearby attractions or landmarks to visit after the tower of london.

Visiting the Tower of London: Everything You Need to Know

A royal residency, place of execution, and home to the dazzling Crown Jewels. Built in the 1070’s, the Tower of London is shrouded in history. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Tower of London .

I’ve visited the Tower of London three times, and each time has been a delight. The first time was with my family, the second time with my friends while studying abroad, and most recently with Kevin on our tour of the UK and Ireland .

A visit to the Tower of London is a definite must if you’re visiting London ! In this guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about visiting this impressive castle, including how to save money on Tower of London tickets, what to see while you’re there, and where to stay nearby.

Tower of London Overview

The Tower of London (officially called His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, but that’s a mouthful!), is a historic castle in central London set on the north bank of the River Thames.

The castle has seen hundreds of years of history, from the Norman Invasion to executions. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the home of the Crown Jewels, and London’s most popular tourist attraction.

History of the Tower of London

Following the Norman Conquest, William the Conqueror built the Tower of London to defend his title from rebellion. It soon became the most secure castle in the country, and so it became the place to guard royal possessions like the Crown Jewels and the royal family during times of war.

William the Conqueror built the castle’s iconic keep, and the fortress took 20 years to build. Henry III and Edward I expanded the castle by adding curtain walls and by enlarging the moat.

Henry III painted the keep white, giving it the name the White Tower. These changes transformed the Tower of London into England’s largest and strongest concentric castle — a castle containing one ring of defenses inside another.

The Tower was where arms and armor were made until the 1800’s. The castle also controlled the nation’s supply of money by having all the country’s coins made at the Tower Mint until 1810.

The Tower has been an infamous prison and the site of royal murders, betrayals, and executions. Henry VI was murdered in the Tower during the War of the Roses, and the children of Edward IV were taken to the Tower never to be seen again. Henry VIII’s bride Anne Boleyn was accused of adultery and treason and was executed on Tower Green.

Touring the Tower of London: What to See

When you tour the Tower of London , you can wait for a guided tour led by a Yeoman Warder or you can storm the castle yourself. I’ve done both, and having the Yeoman-led tour is the best way to get the most information. But if you’re short on time, you’ll probably want to do a self-guided visit.

There is a lot to see and do on your visit.

At the Tower of London, you can see the ravens that effectively hold the whole of the United Kingdom together, based on a superstition that at least six ravens have to be on the grounds at all times or the kingdom will fall .

You can also meet the Beefeaters , the Yeoman Warders who have been in charge of guarding the Tower since the Tutors. I, of course, bought a Beefeater bear at the gift shop to commemorate the occasion.

Your tour includes entrance to see the Crown Jewels . You will also be able to learn about the Tower Mint, see the historic armor of past kings, walk the battlements, tour the medieval palace, unfold stories of torture, and learn about the British infantry regiment.

Visiting the Tower of London

Admission: Tickets to the Tower of London costs £33.60 for adults and £16.80 for children ages 5-15.

Admission to the Tower includes a tour with a Beefeater and entry to the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, the Chapel of St Peter, the Battlements, the Medieval Palace, the Bloody Tower, the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, the Fusiliers Museum, the Beauchamp Tower, and the Royal Mint Exhibition.

An audio guide can be purchased separately.

Hours: The Tower of London’s hours vary by season. You can view a list of opening and closing times here , along with planned closures. Last admission is typically an hour before closing.

Address: London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom

Where to Find Discount Tower of London Tickets

My favorite way of getting a discounted ticket to the Tower of London is by using an attraction pass (because that means you’re also getting discounted tickets on other London attractions!).

Here are a few London sightseeing passes that will get you a discount on your Tower of London ticket:

• London Pass
• GoCity London Explorer Pass
• London Sightseeing Pass
• London City Card
• London Big City Saver Pass

Top Tower of London Tours

There’s a lot to see in London! To take some of the stress out of planning your visit, opt for a guided tour. Check out this list of the top tours that include the Tower of London.

• Tower of London Early Access Tour with Beefeater
• VIP Early Access – Opening Ceremony Tower of London with Crown Jewels & Tower Bridge
• Best of Royal London including Tower of London, Changing of the Guard , and Cruise

Hotels Near the Tower of London

Find a place to stay near the Tower of London. Here are the closest hotels to this impressive fortress:

• DoubleTree by Hilton London – Tower of London
• citizenM Tower of London Hotel
• Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square
• The Tower Hotel
• Tower Suites by Blue Orchid

Tower of London FAQ

What is the tower of london.

The Tower of London is a historical castle and fortress in London that has served throughout history as a Royal Palace, Mint, Zoo, and Prison. It currently houses the Crown Jewels, is a popular London Tourist attraction, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Who lives in the Tower of London?

The Yeomen Warders and their families, the Resident Governor, and a garrison of soldiers live in the Tower of London today. There is a doctor, a chaplain, and even a pub.

When was the Tower of London built?

William the Conqueror began building the Tower of London in 1066. The White Tower was built in 1078.

Where is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is located in central London, England on the banks of the River Thames.

How long is the Tower of London tour?

The Yeoman-led tour takes about 1 hour. The audio guide tour can be taken at your own pace.

What was the Tower of London used for?

The Tower of London has been used as a fortress, a royal palace, a mint, a zoo, the home of the Crown Jewels, a tourist attraction, and more.

How long to spend at Tower of London?

You should plan to spend at least 2-3 hours at the Tower of London. This will allow you to see the highlights. If you plan to tour the castle in-depth, then you might end up spending much of the day here.

Castle Count: 2

For another great castle to visit near London, check out Windsor Castle just a short day trip away in Windsor, England.

More London Resources

• A Self-Guided WWII London Tour: 8 Top WWII Sites in London
• King Arthur Tour from London: Top King Arthur Sites
• 37 Free Things To Do in London
• 2 Days in London: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary
• 10 Incredible Day Trips from London, England
• Getting Engaged in London: A Romantic London Itinerary

Ready to visit the Tower of London in London, England? Plan your trip with these tips.

• Book your flight:  Find the cheapest flights using  Skyscanner , my favorite flight search engine.
• Find accommodation: You can find top hotels in London using Booking.com.
• Get packing:  Make sure you’ve packed everything you need with my packing list resources .

Have you visited the Tower of London in London, England? Tell me about your visit in the comments.

The post Visiting the Tower of London: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Paige Minds The Gap .

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How To Visit the Tower of London in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, And More

Eddie Saint-Jean Last Updated: October 26, 2023

When in London, you can’t miss the Tower of London. Its fascinating and macabre history as a royal residence, fortress, royal treasury, and prison has many mysterious twists and turns, which will be a lot easier to understand with this visitor’s guide put together by a London expert. Whether you’re going solo or taking our recommended guided tour of the Tower of London, here’s how to visit the Tower of London.   

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to London  for more planning resources, our best Tower of London tours  for a memorable trip, and the  top things to do in London .

Visiting the Tower of London: What We’ll Cover

The Tower of London is a large complex with a long and often grisly history dating back to the 11th century. This must-see London attraction has been a fortress, a prison, a palace, an arsenal, a museum, and even a zoo with a bizarre collection of animals.

As such, the site comes with lots of interesting legends and folklore you’re not going to want to miss. In this guide, find out how to visit the Tower of London, from tickets to the best guided tours, what to see, and where to eat nearby. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Opening hours and tickets
• How much time to budget for your visit
• What to see in the Tower of London
• Guided tour options
• Facts and history of the Tower of London
• Where to eat nearby

Tower of London Opening Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:

The Tower of London is open seven days a week but admission times change according to the season. During the summer season (March 1 – October 30) the visiting hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 9 am to 5:30 pm; Mondays and Sundays, 10 am to 5:30 pm. Final entry is at 4.30 pm.

Adult tickets cost £29.90 but conditions such as Peak, Off-peak, or Concessions must also be considered. There are also family deals.

• Adult: £29.90 Peak | £28.90 Off-peak.
• Child (Aged 5-15): £14.90 Peak | £14.40 Off-peak.
• Child (Under 5): Free entry.
• Concession: £24.00 Peak | £23.20 Off-peak.
• Family Saver 1 (One adult with a maximum of three children): £52.20 Peak | £50.50 Off-peak.
• Family Saver 2 (Two adults with a maximum of three children): £82.10 Peak | £79.40 Off-peak.

Address: Tower of London

Not ready to book a tour? See the  best Tower of London tours to take and why .

How Long To Spend at the Tower of London

Short Answer: 3 hours

Firstly, it has several ticket offices which help reduce lines. But there are occasions when you could spend 10-15 minutes in the queue. Secondly, there may be more queues inside for attractions that are particularly popular—such as the Crown Jewels—especially during peak hours. However, if you buy your tickets online this can save you both time and money.

A guided tour by an expert takes at least an hour, but more is better. If you do not require a guide for your visit, it will take 3 hours minimum to figure out where to go and what you’re looking at. This will give you time to see everything in the Tower in a comfortable and leisurely way.

What To See in the Tower of London

When you’re in the Tower of London’s massive complex, make sure you see these top sights. For a more detailed list with in-depth descriptions and images, check out our article on the top things to see in the Tower of London .

• The Crown Jewels
• Tower Green
• The White Tower & the Line Of Kings
• The Bloody Tower
• The Medieval Palace
• Armoury in Action
• The Torture at the Tower Exhibition
• The Fusilier’s Museum

Tower of London Tour Options

If you’re planning a trip to the Tower of London, you should certainly consider our guided tours. You don’t want to leave this site underwhelmed because there was so much to see without knowing all the gruesome tales and fascinating history!

We have hand-picked expert guides who can walk you through the tower’s magnificent history and you can learn about the British kings and queens who lived here and were executed here! Also, many enemies of the state and crown were imprisoned here and the history lesson about them will be easier to digest under our expert guidance. 

Did you know most executioners were drunks and often missed their target—for better or worse? Would you rather have an axe to your shoulder or neck? Learn more gruesome facts on these Tower of London guided tours .

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London (3 hours)

Looking for a guided tour of London’s oldest fortress? Our passionate London guides are ready to take you! This tour starts with a gentle cruise on a River Thames taxi boat where you’ll see London’s iconic skyline and Shakespeare’s Globe Theater from a new perspective.

Then dive deep into history at the Tower of London where your guide makes your trip easy by explaining what you’re seeing in this massive complex. Legends of the ravens, stories of the Beefeaters, a visit to the crown jewels, and much more are included!

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters (2 hours)

Looking for that ultra-exclusive experience at the Tower of London? It doesn’t get much better than this! You get an exclusive, private meeting with a famous Beefeater guard in a room inside the Bloody Tower. These guards know how to entertain you with stories and jokes, and they’re happy to answer your questions too!

After your one-on-one time, the rest of your guided tour of the Tower of London will feel even more enthralling as you hear more tales, truths, and debunked myths about prisoners here at the Tower. Plus, you’ll have a chance to see the collection of the British crown jewels that have no comparison in the world!

Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters (2 hours)

There’s something special about witnessing a time-honored ceremony that’s happened for hundreds of years. This tour gives you exclusive entry to the tower before the crowds as you watch the Beefeaters open the gates. They’ll tell tales and read a royal proclamation at this entertaining event that overshadows how important the tradition actually is.

Then, since you’ve entered before the crowds, you’ll have a chance to explore some of the 18 acres of grounds here as your guide leads you to the most fascinating places at the Tower of London. Step inside a re-created king’s bedroom, see Traitor’s Gate, and enter the Jewel House to see what’s probably the most expensive collection of jewelry and valuables on Earth.

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London (7 hours)

Our top-selling London tour is a must-do when you’re traveling to the heart of the United Kingdom. Your local guides are highly qualified and can share an unreal amount of cool facts and stories about London’s iconic sites and history. Starting at Westminster Abbey, you’ll be amazed at just how much of London you can see on foot and on a Thames river cruise.

Your skip-the-line tickets help you maximize your time, and your guides know where the best spots to see the Changing of the Guard are found. Your final stop at the Tower of London brings London’s more grisly history to life. It’s the perfect place to end your busy day tour of London!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Tower of London tours to take and why .

Facts and History of the Tower of London 

• The Tower of London was built by William the Conqueror around A.D. 1070, a few years after his warriors from Normandy, France conquered Britain. 
• At first, it consisted of just the White Tower, but Henry III (1216-72) and Edward I (1272-1307) added substantial new structures.
• It is one of the few remaining 11th-century European fortress palaces. 
• The enemies of both the monarchy and state were imprisoned and executed here. 
• Two English queens, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, were executed here on the orders of Henry VIII who constantly sought to replace his wives and remarry.
• England’s kings and queens lived here but also kept their treasures and money here knowing this fortified palace was the safest place in Britain.
• The Beefeaters who guard the Tower wear an easily recognisable red uniform. They were once the monarch’s official bodyguards, known as the Yeoman of the Guard or Yeoman Warders. They are known as Beefeaters because the king permitted them to eat as much beef from his table as they could manage. 
• Such are the high levels of security, the Tower was once regarded as impossible to enter illegally. But in 1381, protestors walked in through the gates during the Peasant Rebellion.

Places To Eat Nearby

The Tower of London has its own restaurant, which is just one minute away if you’re looking for a place to eat with a relevant connection. Here are a few more suggestions for places to eat nearby. For more options, check out our guide to the best restaurants near the Tower of London .

New Armouries Restaurant : ££ | Quick Snack —This is the Tower’s official eatery and both hot and cold refreshments are sold here, including snack options and more substantial meals. Of course, you can have fish and chips but also soups, sandwiches, salads, and sweets. 

Cento Alla Torre : £££ | Italian Cuisine —This restaurant is affordable yet has noticeable sophistication. They serve Italian cuisine such as homemade pasta and meat and vegetarian dishes with an artisanal touch. 

La Dame De Pic : ££££ | French Cuisine —This is a classy French restaurant run by the world’s number one female Michelin chef Anne-Sophie Pic. It has two Michelin stars and although expensive, it’s a worthy choice after the comparative grandeur of your Tower of London visit. 

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Where To Stay in London

Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.

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Visiting the Tower of London 2024: Everything You Need to Know!

Last updated: April 13, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 6 Comments

If you’re visiting London, we think that a visit to the Tower of London should definitely be high on your list of things to do in the city. This is home to one of the oldest intact buildings in London, and has seen a huge amount of history. We’ve visited multiple times, and always have a great day out here.

There’s a lot to see and do at the Tower of London, from seeing the Crown Jewels to learning the legend of the ravens. In this guide to visiting the Tower of London (officially known as Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London), I’m going to tell you everything you need to know to plan your visit.

This will include everything from saving money on your Tower of London tickets, to what to see and do, and more tips for your visit. I’ll also share some tips for where to stay near the Tower of London. Let’s get started.

An Overview of the Tower of London

Before we get into the details, you might be wondering what the Tower of London is, and why it warrants a visit. Let me answer that question with some quick history.

In 1066 William the Conqueror invaded Britain, bringing an end to centuries of Anglo-Saxon rule. The monarchy that William started shaped much of the England you see today, right up to and including the current monarch.

Of course, invading and conquering a country is one thing. Keeping it under your rule once you’ve done that is another. With this in mind, William the Conqueror, now William the First, set about building castles to keep control of his new lands. In fact, from 1066 through to 1087, he built nearly 700 castles across England and Wales.

With London as his capital city, naturally an impressive castle had to be built here to demonstrate his absolute power. And so it was in 1066 that construction on the Tower of London commenced. Initially the building was a simple timber structure, but a more impressive stone structure was built in the early 1080s. This was built over pre-existing Roman fortifications that were part of Roman city wall.

This was the White Tower, an imposing stone fortress which still survives today as the centrepiece of the Tower of London.

Over the centuries various changes and additions were made to the Tower of London. These included extra fortifications and structures, including thick walls, defensive towers, and buildings for accommodation, holding prisoners and munition storage.

Today, the Tower of London consists of a series of defensive structures, walls and buildings which span an area of 12 acres. First there is the moat, then there is a defensive wall, the outer ward, another defensive wall, the inner ward and finally the innermost ward where you find the White Tower.

The Tower of London has been the location of many key events in British history. Multiple important figures throughout history were executed here, with 112 people executed at the Tower over 400 years. These included some of Henry VIII’s wives, political and religious prisoners, and even German spies during World War II.

Today the Tower of London is primarily a visitor attraction, a role it has played for around 400 years. It also serves some notable functions, including being the home of the Crown Jewels and the regimental headquarters of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site, and also a home for around 40 retired service personnel and their families.

As you can imagine with a building that spans so much history, we’ve only briefly covered the Tower of London in this overview, but hopefully this gives you enough to get an idea as to why to visit!

Where is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is found on the north bank of the River Thames, right next to Tower Bridge. The address is London, EC3N 4AB. It sits right on the edge of the London borough of Tower Hamlets, next to the City of London.

The Tower of London entrance is on the west side of the building, with the ticket and security check lines forming outside the west gate. This area is also where you’ll find the ticket shop, welcome centre and shop.

How to get to the Tower of London

There are multiple options for getting to the Tower of London, including by rail, underground, bus and even boat! Here are the main options you have.

• Tube . The nearest tube station to the Tower of London is Tower Hill, which is served by the District and Circle lines. This is around a five minute walk from the Tower of London. Other nearby stations (within 15 minutes walk) include Aldgate, Aldgate East, Tower Gateway, Monument, Bank, London Bridge and Fenchurch Street.
• Public bus . Bus services 15, 42, 78, 100 and RV1 all stop near the Tower of London.
• Boat.  The Thames River Boat service stops at Tower Pier, and offers connections up and down the river. A day pass for the Thames River Boat is included on the London Pass , which also includes Tower of London admission.
• Train . The nearest train station for the Tower of London is London Bridge Station, around 15 minutes walk away. Liverpool Street Station is around 20 minutes walk away.
• Taxi . You can of course get a taxi to the Tower of London, which prices varying depending on the distance travelled.
• Hop on Hop off Bus . All the London sightseeing buses make a stop at the Tower of London. A sightseeing bus tour ticket is also included on the London Pass .
• Walking . Depending on where you are traveling from, you might find it easiest to walk to the Tower of London. For example, it’s 20 minutes’ walk from St. Pauls Cathedral and the Shard, 45 minutes from Covent Garden or an hour from Westminster Abbey.

For more tips on travel in London, see our guide to getting around London .

Tower of London Opening Times

The Tower of London normally opens between 9am and 10am, and closes between 4.30pm and 5.30pm. These times vary depending on the time of year. They can also change for school holidays. Normal opening times are as follows:

Summer (1st March – 31st October)

• Sunday – Monday: 10am – 5.30pm
• Tuesday – Saturday: 9am – 5.30pm

Winter (1st November – 28th February)

• Sunday – Monday: 10am – 4.30pm
• Tuesday – Saturday: 9am – 4.30pm.

Last admission is usually between 1 hour and ninety minutes before closing, however we would recommend giving yourself at least 2 or three hours for a visit.

Note that opening times can vary, so you will always want to check current opening times here in advance of your visit.

Do You Need a Ticket for the Tower of London?

You definitely need a ticket for the Tower of London. You can either book your tickets online in advance of your visit (recommended), or you can buy tickets from the ticket office which is near the main entrance.

We highly recommend booking tickets in advance. At busier times, there can be queues for the ticket office, so you will lose valuable sightseeing time standing in line.

How Much does it Cost to Visit the Tower of London?

As of April 2024, ticket prices for the Tower of London are as follows:

• Adult – £34.80
• Child (age 5-15) – £17.40
• Concession (age 65+, 16-17, full time student, disabled visitors) – £27.70
• Child under 5 years – Free

Pricing can vary, we recommend you check the latest information here .

What Does the Tower of London Ticket Include?

The Tower of London ticket includes:

• Entry to the Crown Jewels, the White Tower and the Chapel of St Peter
• Entry to the Battlements, the Medieval Palace, the Bloody Tower, the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, the Fusiliers Museum, the Beauchamp Tower, and the Royal Mint Exhibition
• A tour of the Tower of London with a Yeoman Warder, or “Beefeater”. These run every hour starting near the main entrance, pre-booking is not required. The first tour is usually at 10am and the final tour is at 2.30pm.

The ticket does not include an audio guide, but an audio guide can be purchased separately for £5 for adults and £4 for children. You can either purchase these with your ticket or on-site. Audio guides can be collected just after you pass through the security check, to the right of the entrance.

Premium Tower of London Experiences

As well as the standard visit to the Tower of London, you can also book special experiences. These usually cost more, but will give you a unique experience. These might include witnessing special ceremonies, or simply getting in before the majority of the crowds. Some examples include:

• This early access tour of the Tower of London with a Beefeater which has you visiting prior to general admission
• This Tour of the Tower of London includes early access to the Tower and Crown Jewels. You’ll also get to see the opening ceremony, and have a fully guided experience inside the Tower of London. It also includes a hop-on hop-off city cruise tour, which departs right outside the Tower.
• One of the most unique experiences at the Tower of London is the Ceremony of the Keys. This is held every night from 9.30pm until 10.05pm, and tickets must be purchased separately. These are very popular, and ca be booked on the official website here . Note that photography is not permitted, and this ticket does not include admission to the Tower of London beyond the Key Ceremony itself.
• If you want to see the evening Ceremony of the Keys and also take a quick tour of the Tower, check out this tour . It includes an hour’s tour with a Yeoman Warder as well as the opportunity to watch the Ceremony of the Keys. I have done this tour and I enjoyed it. However you should be aware it is quite a quick tour and you don’t see inside the White Tower or visit the Crown Jewels. So for a more complete experience I would probably recommend this morning tour .

Where to Buy Tower of London Tickets

There are a number of options for buying Tower of London tickets. The main options you have are:

• On-site in person at the Tower of London ticket office
• On the GetYourGuide website here
• On the Tiqets website here (includes our exclusive discount)
• Online on the official website here

We definitely recommend checking prices between the official site and third party sites as sometimes there are discounts as well as bundles that may include other attractions you are interested in.

Usually, our link to the Tiqets website will get you the best prices on adult admission, but offers and availability do vary so do shop around and compare!

It’s also worth mentioning that the refund policy varies by ticket. Tickets bought on the official site generally cannot generally be refunded, whilst third-party sites may have a different policy.

The Tower of London is also included on a number of London city passes, see that section of the post for more details on that.

Discount Tower of London Tickets

There are a few ways to get discounted Tower of London tickets, or at least, to save on your admission.

Normally, using our Tiqets link will save you a little on full admission price for an adult.

If you are travelling as a family, the Family Saver ticket can save you money. This is available on either the official site here or the Tiqets website here . If visiting during peak times with two adults and three children, you can save over £20 compared to buying the normal full price tickets.

Tower Hamlets residents can visit the Tower of London for just £1. These tickets can only be purchased in person on the day, and residents must provide proof of residence in the form of either an Idea Store card or a Tower Hamlets library card, as well as proof of address.

Finally, don’t forget to check out city passes which include the Tower of London. If you are planning on visiting a few attractions in London, these can quickly save you money.

City Passes that Include the Tower of London

One of the best ways to save money on sightseeing in a city in our experience is to use a city pass. These passes usually include entry to a range of attractions for one price. If you are already planning to visit a number of high value attractions in a city like London, then a city pass can usually save you quite a bit of money.

We normally use the London Pass when we’re in London sightseeing, and have used it to visit the Tower of London a number of times. You can read our full review of the London Pass here , and buy one for yourself here . Of course, there are other city passes which include the Tower of London. Here are the main options to consider. Which one is best for you will depend on your sightseeing itinerary.

• The London Pass – access to over 80 attractions across London for a specific set of days
• The GoCity London Explorer Pass – choose from between 2 and 7 attractions to visit
• The London Sightseeing Pass – access to over 55 attractions across London for a specific set of days
• The London City Card – access to the Tower of London and the London Eye , as well as an audio guide of London and a hop on hop off boat cruise
• The London Big City Saver Pass – includes access to the Tower of London as well as your choice of attractions including the London Eye, Madame Tussauds

We normally use the London Pass as we think it offers the best value, but of course it will depend on what you plan to see.

Tower of London Tickets Sold Out? You still have options to visit the Tower of London!

If you are visiting the Tower of London when they are operating timed entry slots, these do have a maximum number of visitors they can accommodate. As such, tickets can sell out.

If you are looking on one of the online ticket portals, including the official site, then you should also check alternatives just in case. Whilst most of them draw from the same allocation, you might get lucky. We recommend checking  the official website here , on the GetYourGuide website here and o n the Tiqets website here .

If you have no luck, the next option is to book a tour which includes Tower of London entry. Group tour tickets normally have a pre-allocated amount of tickets which are separate from the standard ticket pool. We list tours in our suggested tour options, but some options to consider include:

• This Tour of the Tower of London which includes early access to the Tower and Crown Jewels. You’ll also get to see the opening ceremony, and have a fully guided experience inside the Tower of London
• This full day tour of London includes many of the highlights of London, and finishes with a guided tour of the Tower of London

Hopefully between these options you’ll be able to visit the Tower of London during your time in the city.

Can you skip the lines at the Tower of London?

There are two main lines at the Tower of London.

The first of these is the ticket line for buying tickets in person on the day. This one is easy to skip by buying your tickets online in advance, which we highly recommend you do. Most tickets or tours which advertise skip the line privileges are referring to this ticket line.

If you are visiting with a London Pass or other city sightseeing pass, you can normally also skip the ticket line and head straight for the entry line. Just read the instructions provided with the pass.

The second line is the entry line which features a security check. All guests have to go through the security check, so this line can’t be skipped. Our advice is to visit the Tower of London as close to opening time as possible so the line isn’t so long.

The only way to ensure faster access is to book one of the early entry tours, which get you in before the main ticket line opens. While you will still have to go through security, it will only be you and the other members of your group doing this, so it will move quickly. Check out this tour and this tour for examples of early access tours.

What to see and do at the Tower of London

There is a lot to see and do at the Tower of London! We recommend visiting the Crown Jewels (located in a section of the Waterloo Barracks) first and then visiting the White Tower as these are generally the two busiest and most popular attractions here. After that, we just recommend visiting the rest of the attractions in the order that makes the most sense for you.

I should also note that due to the historic nature of the Tower of London some exhibit or area is almost always closed at any one time due to renovations, construction, or safety issues. However, it is rarely the most popular areas.

For example on one of our recent visits the Tower’s Mint and the chapel were closed to visitors, and on another the Beauchamp Tower and a section of the battlements was closed. So if there is any specific exhibit or areas you really want to visit, you may want to call ahead to ensure it is open.

Here’s an overview of the main sights and attractions within the walls.

The Tower’s Mint

When you enter the Tower of London you’ll pass through the Middle Gate, go across the moat, and then pass through the outer wall via the Byward Tower. You’ll now be in the outer ward, which sits between the two main sets of walls.

If you head to your left, up Mint Street, you will come to The Tower Mint. This street is also home to the “casemates”, a series of homes built into the walls where many of the Yeoman warders live.

The Tower Mint is open for visiting. It was established here in 1279, and for 500 years, most of the coins in circulation in the country were produced here. A visit to the mint will teach you all about this process, as well as about the people who lived and worked here. There are also some fun interactive games you can play.

The Battlements

The inner curtain wall of the Tower of London separates the outer ward from the inner ward. This was built during the reign of Henry the III in the 13th century, and much of what you see today is original from this period.

It consists of 13 towers (Bell, Beauchamp, Devereux, Flint, Bowyer, Brick, Martin, Constable, Broad Arrow, Salt, Lanthorn, Wakefield, and the Bloody Tower) which are linked by walls, and the whole construction is generally referred to today as the Battlements.

When built, this primarily served a defensive function. Today, you can walk along the majority of the battlements by taking the wall walk. This takes you through a number of the towers, with many of them setup to show mini exhibitions. In these, you’ll learn all sorts of things about the Tower’s history, from the time the walls were breached during the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, the Tower’s time as a zoo (the Royal Menagerie), and what happened at the Tower during the World Wars.

One of the more intriguing exhibits for us was about the great fire here that took place in 1841 when Duke of Wellington was the Tower Constable. Another was a room devoted to the history of the animals that were kept at the Tower of London here which included lions, baboons, bears, alligators, zebras, and elephants. You’ll also see sculptures representing some of the animals that were kept here throughout the site.

The wall walk also take you through the next entry in our guide, the Medieval Palace.

The Medieval Palace

The wall walk along the Battlements starts with you entering St. Thomas’s Tower. This is part of the outer defences of the castle, added by Edward I in the late 13th century. As well as an additional defensive wall wrapping around the outside of the original curtain wall, this features a number of defensive emplacements as well as a large tower.

This tower, St. Thomas’s Tower, was built to serve two purposes. First, it had a river-level water gate entrance, offering direct access to the Thames. This came to be known as Traitors’ Gate, as this was where many Tudor-era prisoners would arrive prior to incarceration, often followed by torture and/or execution.

The upper floor of St. Thomas’s Tower was designed to provide luxurious lodging for the Royal family when they stayed at the Tower. Today, St. Thomas’s Tower along with the next two towers you pass through on the wall walk, The Wakefield Tower and the Lanthorn Tower, are collectively known as the Medieval Palace.

These towers are today set up to demonstrate what the interior would have been like for the visiting Royalty, with objects and furniture dating from the period.

The Crown Jewels in the Waterloo Barracks

A highlight for many visitors to the Tower of London is a visit to see the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom. This is a collection of royal ceremonial objects, which include the crown worn by the British monarch. It’s the most complete collection of Royal regalia in the world, and the only set still in active use today.

The Tower of London has traditionally been home to the Crown Jewels since the early 13th century. The Jewels on display and in use today primarily date from 1660 when Charles II ascended the throne and restablished the monarchy following the English Civil War.

A highlight of the collection is the Cullinan I diamond, which is the largest clear cut diamond in the world at 530 carats. There are however over 23,000 precious stones in the display, which consists of 142 objects, including plates, swords, sceptres, robes, rings and even a spoon.

My favourite object is the nautical themed silver-gilt Grand Punch Bowl, which can hold 144 bottles of wine, and which is still in regular use!

A visit to the Crown Jewels is a must when visiting the Tower of London. It’s one of the most popular attractions, and one of the only places where photography isn’t allowed. At busier times, there can be quite a queue to visit, so do plan accordingly.

The White Tower

Right at the heart of the Tower of London is the White Tower, the oldest part of the Tower of London and one of the oldest buildings in London.

The building is a keep, which in medieval times was a central fortified tower that normally had the most protection of any building in a castle. It was built in stone in the late 11th century, and fulfilled the role of fortress, royal accommodation, prison and symbol of power. Over the years it’s use evolved, including during the 17th century when the whole tower was used, rather riskily, to store a vast quantity of gunpowder.

Since the 19th century, the White Tower has primarily been a visitor attraction, and a visit to this incredible 11th century medieval palace is a must when inside the Tower of London. Here you will see a number of exhibits including the Line of Kings, which has been on display at the Tower of London since around 1692! Today this historic exhibition is found on the entrance floor of the White Tower.

You’ll also find other interesting armor and weaponry on display, as well as a beautiful 11th century Romanesque chapel, the Chapel of St. John the Evangelist. Note that whilst photography is allowed almost everywhere in the White Tower, it is not permitted in the chapel.

There are also exhibits about the lesser known uses of the Tower of London here including as a jewel, house, records office, Board of Ordnance headquarters, royal mint, menagerie, and royal observatory.

The Bloody Tower

Originally known as the Garden Tower, the Bloody Tower is one of the towers making up the battlements. It gained its rather gruesome name in the 16th century. Two young princes, one of whom was the deposed King and the other was his brother and therefore next in line, were effectively imprisoned in the tower by their uncle the Duke of Gloucester, the future Richard III.

Following their imprisonment and subsequent mysterious disappearance, rumours abounded of their being murdered, and so the Bloody Tower got its name. In 1674, the bones of two children of similar ages were found beneath the staircase in the White Tower at the Tower of London.

Today, you can learn about the Princes and what may have happened to them with a visit to the Bloody Tower. You’ll also learn about other high profile prisoners who stayed here, including Sir Walter Raleigh, who was imprisoned here for 13 years.

Lower Wakefield Tower

Next to the Bloody Tower is the Wakefield Tower, another of the towers along the inner curtain wall. In the lower part of this tower is the Torture at the Tower exhibit.

Over the centuries, and particularly in the 16th and 17th century, there was much political and religious change in the country. These changes resulted in many prisoners being held at the Tower. Often, it was suspected that they held information on co-conspirators, or where perhaps not forthcoming enough with a confession.

Interrogators at the Tower used a range of rather awful devices to extract information from their prisoners, and you can learn all about these at the Torture at the Tower exhibit.

The Fusilier Museum

Formed in June 1685, The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers were originally formed to guard the guns at the Tower of London. Since then, the regiment has seen service in conflicts around the Globe, from the American War of Independence through to the Napoleonic Wars and the Great Wars of the 20th century.

They still have their regimental headquarters inside the walls of the Tower of London, where on the ground floor you can visit the Fusilier Museum . This museum tells the story of the regiment from its formation right up to the present day via a series of objects and information panels, and is well worth the visit.

Tower Green & Scaffold Site

To the west of the White Tower, near the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula you’ll find an expanse of grass as well as a memorial.

This area, known as Tower Green, was the site of some of the most high profile executions in British history. Only those of high rank had the privilege of being executed here. Ten people were beheaded on the green, including two of Henry VIII’s wives, Queens Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard.

Today there is a memorial sculpture to those who lives were taken on the green.

Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula

Just to the north of Tower Green is the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula. “Ad Vincula” is Latin for “in chains”, so this is the Chapel of St. Peter in chains. The chapel is the parish church of the Tower of London, and whilst there has been a chapel on site for many centuries, the current building dates from 1520 and the reign of Henry VIII.

The chapel is perhaps most well known as the final resting place for many of the high profile prisoners who were executed at the Tower. These include Queen Anne Boleyn, Queen Catherine Howard, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Thomas More. There were many other people interred here, including a number of martyrs who went on to become Saints.

The Chapel Royal is open for visitors and also has prayer services. It’s one of the few places in the Tower of London where photography isn’t allowed.

Beauchamp Tower

Another of the towers in the battlements, although not part of the wall walk, is the Beauchamp Tower. This 13th century tower was used as a prison for most of its history. It takes its name from Thomas Beauchamp, who was imprisoned here at the end of the 14th century.

Being imprisoned at the Tower was, for most prisoners, a very challenging experience. Many had already been condemned to death, and were passing time in fairly grim conditions. Not every prisoner had their own apartments, like Sir Walter Raleigh!

To pass the time and alleviate boredom, many prisoners took to carving graffiti into the walls of the castle. This is still visible today, and coming to see this graffiti has in fact long been a popular pastime amongst visitors to the Tower.

The Beauchamp Tower has a number of intricate carvings in the walls, along with more standard names and dates. These can all be visited and seen as part of the Imprisonment at the Tower Exhibition, found within the Beauchamp Tower.

One of the most well known sights at the Tower of London are the Tower Ravens. These large black birds have been a common sight at the Tower of London for centuries. The history of the Ravens at the Tower is one of myth and legends, so it’s hard to know exactly what is fact and what is not.

One story goes that the ravens were first encouraged to take up residence at the Tower to enhance the atmosphere at the executions on Tower Hill. Large black birds flapping ominously overhead would certainly lend a certain something to any execution. This association with ravens at the Tower is then said to have led to a captive population being permanently installed by Charles II in the 17th century.

Other scholars disagree, and surmise that this is all a myth put about by romantic Victorians. Certainly, the first known reference of captive Tower Ravens is in an illustration of 1863.

Whichever version of events you choose to believe, the reality is that these days there are always at least six captive ravens who are resident at the Tower, and who are looked after by the Yeoman Warders. The legend goes that should the ravens leave the Tower of London, the Crown will fall, and Britain with it.

Rather than testing this theory, the ravens are kept and fed at the Tower, and you’ll no doubt encounter them on your visit. They are often to be found hopping around after the Yeoman Warders, because they are clever birds who know where their food comes from.

The Yeoman Warders & Guided Tours

An iconic sight at the Tower of London are the Yeoman Warders, commonly known as Beefeaters. These men and women (to date there has only been one woman warder) have the full title Yeomen Warders of Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, and Members of the Sovereign’s Body Guard of the Yeoman Guard Extraordinary.

The Yeoman Warders are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London, with the responsibility of looking after the prisoners in the Tower as well as safeguarding the Crown Jewels. They are also the de facto guides at the Tower, and have been helping tourists find their way around the sight and sharing their knowledge since the 19th century.

Yeoman Warders are commonly known as Beefeaters, a term whose origin is shrouded in mystery, but likely has something to do with the quantities of beef that formed a part of their diet. They were formed in 1485, and are the oldest military corp still in existence.

Yeoman Warders are today all former members of the armed services with a minimum of 22 years service. They live within the grounds of the Tower of London with their families, and they lead free guided tours within the Tower. We highly recommend spending a bit of time chatting to a Warder, as they have some wonderful stories and knowledge to share.

They run free guided tours throughout the day which are included with your tickets, and these are well worth joining. The talks cover different topics, and you can find out more when you visit about what’s on that day.

As well as the Yeoman Warders, the Tower of London also has a number of Guards on duty. These are active serving military personnel, responsible for guarding the Jewel House and the Queen’s House.

They are recognisable from their red uniforms and their large furry bearskin caps. As well as their guard role, they also take part in three daily ceremonies at the Tower of London: the Ceremonial Opening, the Ceremony of the Word, and the Ceremony of the Keys.

Whilst photography of the Guards is permitted, you should be aware that these are active military personnel performing an important task. When they are marching or otherwise moving around the site, it is important to stand clear and let them get on with their duties.

Unlike the Yeoman Warders, the Guards are not there to provide visitors with assistance and as such they won’t answer questions. So please be respectful and direct any questions you have to the Yeoman Warders, rather than the Guards.

How Long to Visit the Tower of London For?

As you can see, there is a lot to see and do at the Tower of London. We recommend a minimum of two hours for your visit if you just want to see the highlights, but ideally we’d recommend planning to spend around three hours here. At busier times, attractions like the Crown Jewels can involve a queue time of up to an hour, so you will need to consider this as well.

But you can easily spend most of a day here as there is so much to do and see if you visit all the available attractions. In addition to visiting all the various parts of the Tower and attractions, there are also guided tours you can join (most are free with your ticket) as well as the restaurant, café, and gift shops.

Those visiting with children may want to make sure to take some time between visiting buildings and museums to eat and let the kids enjoy the green spaces.

Is the Tower of London Worth It?

Hopefully having read this guide so far, and seeing all that there is to see and do at the Tower of London, you will agree that the Tower of London is definitely worth it.

Whilst the entry price is relatively high, it is on par with other major attractions in London like the London Eye . You could also spend a full day just at the Tower of London if you wanted to as there is plenty to see and do.

We feel it offers great value for what you can see, which includes many things you just can’t see anywhere else like the Crown Jewels.

Practicalities for Visiting the Tower of London

Like any major tourist attraction, there are a few things to be aware of when visiting the Tower of London.

Facilities at the Tower of London

There are a number of toilets at the Tower of London, some of which offer accessible facilities and some of which offer baby changing facilities.

Buggies and push chairs are allowed at the Tower of London, but due to the ancient cobbled ground many parts of the Tower are not exactly pushchair friendly. There is a buggy park outside the White Tower.

There are first aid services at the Tower of London. If you are visiting with children, there is not a meeting point, but children should be instructed to talk with a Yeoman Warder if they need help.

Security at the Tower of London

Like most locations these days, there are security checks when visiting the Tower of London. If you have any kind of small backpack or bag, it will be searched on entry, and the Tower reserves the right to search visitors on entry as well. Large luggage is not permitted in the Tower.

There are a number of prohibited articles which seem fairly obvious to me. Weapons, including knives with a blade in excess of 3 inches are forbidden, as are fireworks, smoke bombs and pepper spray.

Accessibility at the Tower of London

The Tower of London strives to be an accessible venue, with a number of measures in place to make all visitors welcome. However, there are some limitations, as this is a very old building complex with cobbled areas, steep narrow staircases, and low doorways.

There is a full guide to accessibility at the Tower of London, with detailed information on each area of the Tower and accessibility features. You can download this here .

All visitors with disabilities are welcome to bring a carer free of charge. Tickets for carers can be obtained on the day, with presentation of proof of a registered disability.

Luggage storage Near the Tower of London

Whilst small daypacks are allowed, larger luggage and suitcases are not permitted at the Tower of London. There is also no on-site luggage storage. We suggest checking online luggage storage options here and here .

Photography at the Tower of London

As you can see from this guide, I’ve taken a lot of photos at the Tower of London. So I’m pleased to report that photography is allowed almost everywhere within the Tower. The main exceptions to this rule are:

• the Crown Jewels exhibit and the entire inside of the Jewel House
• the Martin Tower
• the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula.
• the Chapel of St. John in the White Tower

No photography or filming is allowed in these parts of the Tower.

You are also permitted to photograph the Guard and the Yeoman Warders. For the latter, it is always polite to ask permission. For the former, they don’t speak to people usually, but they do expect to have their photos taken. Just be respectful!

If you plan to do any commercial photography or wedding photography, or use photographic equipment such as tripods and selfie sticks, this needs to be arranged in advance. There are also rules in place to safeguard children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Food and Drink at the Tower of London

If you get hungry whilst you are at the Tower of London, you have a few options.

First, you are allowed to bring your own food and drink to the Tower of London. However, do be aware that you are only allowed to consume it in designated areas.

There are also a number of options for eating and drinking at the Tower of London. The largest sit down option is the New Armouries Café. This includes a range of full size hot and cold meals, as well as drinks, snacks, sandwiches, cakes and pastries. This is the best option for a sit down meal.

There are also a number of food and drink kiosks, including an ice cream stand, at various locations around the Tower of London. So you won’t go hungry.

Internet Access at the Tower of London

There is full free WiFi access at the Tower of London. Just connect to the free WiFi network.

Tours of the Tower of London

You can book a tour which includes the Tower of London. Some of these focus on the Tower itself, whilst others will include other sights and experiences across the city.

One thing to note is that the only external guides who are allowed to guide inside the Tower of London are Accredited Guides or Blue Badge guides.

Some tours you’ll find online will say that they include the Tower of London. However, if the tour is not operated by an accredited blue badge guide, the guide will not actually accompany you inside the Tower of London. So you would have to guide yourself for this part of the tour, or join one of the free tours after you enter with a Yeoman Warder.

Here are some options to consider.

• This Tour of the Tower of London includes early access to the Tower and Crown Jewels. You’ll also get to see the opening ceremony, and have a fully guided experience inside the Tower of London
• This full day tour of London includes many of the highlights of London, and finishes with a fully guided tour of the Tower of London
• If you’d like a private tour, this tour with a blue badge guide focuses on the Tower of London, and the guide will accompany you inside throughout the experience
• If you want to see the evening Ceremony of the Keys and also take a quick tour of the Tower, check out this tour . It includes an hour’s tour with a Yeoman Warder as well as the opportunity to watch the Ceremony of the Keys. I have done this tour and the experience is definitely interesting, however it is quite a quick tour and you don’t see inside the White Tower or the Crown Jewels. So for a more complete experience I would probably recommend this morning tour .

Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

To help you get the most out of your Tower of London visit, we’ve put together these tips based on our multiple visits.

Consider a Guided Tour or Audio guide

As you have probably noticed, there’s a lot to see at the Tower of London, and the building itself has been witness to around a thousand years of history. As such, it can be a bit overwhelming!

For this reason, we usually recommend that visitors consider either taking a guided tour or using the on-site audio guide to enhance their visit. For guided tours, the Yeoman warder led tours which are included in your entry ticket are a great option. Alternatively, see our section on recommended tours for other ideas.

Chat with the Yeoman Warders

Whether or not you opt to take one of the free guided tours, we definitely recommend taking some time to talk with the Yeoman Warders. They’re easily recognisable from their uniforms, and they have a wealth of knowledge about the Tower of London.

So whether you have a question about what it’s like to actually live at the Tower of London, or want to know something about its history, these are the people to talk to!

What to Bring

You’ll be spending a few hours at the Tower of London, so we would recommend bringing comfortable clothes and walking shoes, as well as a refillable water bottle. We also recommend either an umbrella or lightweight rainproof coat, whatever time of year you visit. There are quite a few outdoor areas, and the weather in London can be unpredictable even in the summer time!

For more ideas on packing, see our guide to what to pack for London .

Plan your day in advance

There is a lot to see at the Tower of London, so having a general idea of the layout and what order you intend to visit things is a good idea. If you are not sure if you have the time to visit everything (there is a lot to see), you will want to prioritize the areas you really want to see by visiting them first.

Planning ahead can save you retracing your steps and walking further than you need to. As mentioned previously, the site spans 12 acres with two concentric walls surrounding the centre, and attractions found throughout.

The site is well signposted, and you’ll get a free map when you visit. You can also download this in digital form in advance of your visit from the official website here . If you need directions when you’re on site, just ask a Yeoman Warder.

We highly recommend planning to arrive as close to opening as you can, and to head straight for the Crown Jewels exhibition. This tends to be the busiest attraction on the site, and queues can be up to an hour long during peak visiting times. So if you can get this done first then you’ll be able to have a more relaxing time overall.

Attractions Near the Tower of London

The Tower of London is very close to a number of other London attractions. These include:

• Tower Bridge (6 minute walk)
• HMS Belfast (10 minute walk)
• The Shard (20 minute walk)
• Borough Market (20 minute walk)
• St. Paul’s Cathedral (20 minute walk)
• Shakespeare’s Globe (20 minute walk)

As you can see, it would be easy to incorporate a trip to the Tower of London with other sightseeing. See our suggested itineraries for 1 day in London , 2 days in London , 3 days in London and 6 days in London for some ideas.

Where to Stay Near the Tower of London

If you want to stay near the Tower of London, we’ve put together some options for you. It’s worth bearing in mind that The Tower of London is right next to the city of London, so this area is largely dominated by office buildings rather than hotels, however there are some options to choose from. We suggest the following.

• Wombats Hostel – just 13 minutes walk from the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, this well reviewed hostel offers basic shared accommodation. There’s also a bar and shared kitchen facilities on site.
• Clayton Hotel – well located for the city’s financial district and just 15 minutes walk from the Tower of London, this is a very well rated 4* hotel offering comfortably sized en-suite stylish rooms. There’s free WiFi throughout and an on-site restaurant and bar.
• New Road Hotel – this excellent value and well reviewed boutique 4* hotel in Whitechapel is found in a former textile factory. It’s 25 minutes walk to the Tower of London. A wide range of rooms are available, from more budget oriented options through to higher end options with hot tubs and terraces. Rooms are all en-suite and air-conditioned, and there’s also an on-site bar and restaurant.
• Shangri-La Hotel at the Shard – found between floors 34 and 52 of the Shard, rooms at the well reviewed 5* Shangri-La offer some of the most spectacular views of the city you’ll find in any hotel in London. Good sized rooms feature marble en-suite bathrooms with shower and separate bath tub. Rooms also feature air-conditioning, coffee machines and free WiFi, as well as a set of binoculars to enjoy the view! There are three dining and drinking menus on site, and it’s a 20 minute walk to the Tower of London

Of course, there are many more options for accommodation all across London. See our guide to where to stay in London for some more options and tips on which London neighborhoods might be the best place to stay depending on what you plan to visit.

Further Reading for Visiting London

That’s it for our complete guide to visiting the Tower of London! We hope you found it useful to help you decide on the best property for your trip to the city. We’ve also got a number of other resources to help you plan your trip to London and the UK in general which we think you’ll find useful.

• We have detailed itineraries for  1 day in London ,  2 days in London ,  3 days in London  and  6 days in London
• Another popular attraction in London is the London Eye. See our complete guide to visiting the London Eye for everything you need to know for the London Eye
• You’ll need somewhere to stay in the city if you’re here for more than a day. See our guide to where to stay in London for some suggestions across all budgets.
• If you plan on doing much sightseeing in the city, you will likely save money with a London Pass. See our complete  London Pass review here  to see if this might save you money on sightseeing.
• We have a guide to  getting around London , and a guide to  using the Oyster card in London .
• If you’re flying into one of London’s six airports, see our guide to  getting to London from the airport .
• We have a detailed guide to  what to pack for London , to help you prepare for your trip to London.
• We put together some tips on finding the  best Photography Locations in London
• For the Harry Potter fans amongst you, take a look at our guide to finding  Harry Potter in London
• 8 Things to Do in Kensington , London, in case you wanted to focus more on a specific region of the city
• If you enjoy military museums, take a look at our guide to  London’s best military museums and memorial . Also see our  Winston Churchill in London guide .
• Tips on  spending Two Weeks in the UK , should you want to have London as the start of a bigger adventure
• For budget planning, see our guide to  how much it costs to travel in the UK
• Our experience  taking a full day walking tour of London , in case you like the idea of a fully guided day
• Thoughts on  visiting Stonehenge from London as a day trip
• Other good day trips from London include Oxford and Cambridge. See our guide to  Oxford in a day  as well as  things to do in Cambridge  for ideas.
• Heading further north? We have loads of content on  Scotland , including a  2 Day Edinburgh itinerary , a guide to the  North Coast 500  and a  2 Day Glasgow itinerary
• How about heading to Paris from London? We have a detailed guide to the  best way to get from London to Paris  to help you plan
• The  Eyewitness Travel Guide to London , which has all sorts of information within, including more itineraries and ideas for your trip
• Rick Steve’s London  guide, the #1 bestseller on Amazon for UK travel guides, and always an excellent source of relevant information

And that’s it! We hope you found our guide to visiting the Tower of London helpful, and as always, if you have any questions, just pop them in the comments and we’ll answer them as soon as we can!

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There are 6 comments on this post

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Anne Clough says

8th July 2023 at 3:29 pm

Are there water fountains on site to be able to fill my bottles?

Laurence Norah says

8th July 2023 at 3:51 pm

Yes there are. I can also recommend getting a copy of the “Refill” app for your smartphone which has a map of all the water fountains as well as cafes and bars which offer free refills of water bottles 🙂

Have a great time in London!

Nichelle says

6th January 2023 at 6:48 pm

We will bein London April 2 and April 3rd, when can we purchase tickets for the Tower of London?

The website does not show any tickets available to purchase yet.

14th January 2023 at 10:22 am

Hi Nichelle,

Sorry about the slow response! I’m travelling with limited internet at the moment. You are correct, currently tickets beyond the 1st of March are not available. I contacted the Tower of London about this, and they were not able to give me an updated timeframe for when these tickets will go on sale, only to say that you should keep checking the website. Sorry to not be of more help! Have a great trip to London!

29th December 2021 at 11:18 pm

great site! do you know if beefeaters will be available in May 2022?

30th December 2021 at 10:12 am

Thanks Susan! Yes, the Beefeaters should be leading their tours in May and also be there for any photos or questions you have. They live on site so they are pretty much always there 🙂

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Going back in time - Tower of London

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Going back in time

A great place to visit but a lot of the sights are not accessible if you are with someone who is reliant on a walker/wheelchair. Meal at cafe was very nice.

Oh my goodness, how busy this was! Booked our tickets and earliest time slot we could get. My fault for booking our trip within the timescale of school holidays?? The amount of people in our group was far too busy and whilst the Yeoman Guard was fun, you could hardly hear him give his talks and when we all were to follow him, by the time we got up as near to him as we could he had already started his talk and we feel we missed bits. The group had far too many people in it which others in the group would testify too, so we decided to go it alone and wander around ourselves. Long Queues everywhere which took the shine off the trip for me but managed to see as much as we could? Annoyed with myself that I didn't book earlier for an earlier time slot. Though it was exciting being there with all the history and happy we did it than not at all.

The highlight of the visit was the Yeoman guard tour.Our guide was Gary who was very entertaining, informative and easy to listen to. He kept his audience interested for almost a full hour with lots of facts and gruesome tales of history of the Tower. After the tour we visited the various exhibits inside the fortress and the highlight was the Crown jewels.

We did a set guided tour. Information booth was very helpful and made suggestions to fit our family. We talked with a few Beefeaters and they too were very helpful and happy to answer our questions. We highly recommend it! It seems like a high cost for tickets but we spent 4 hours there.

As a world traveling world history, architecture, and culture enthusiast the Tower of London is quite significant on anyone's list, and it is truly fantastic! From the VERY historically significant White Tower guarded by crows and filled with armor and stories...to the hall of the Crown Jewels (magnificent), the museum, chapel, and the layers of evolution that was built over time with the Tower bridge as a back-drop...this place is an absolute must see. Don't think about it...go and experience a slice of history for yourself!

I've been to the Tower of London years ago when I was in London. This time we also took the Beefeater tour, but it only comprised of a 20 minute introduction of the Tower. Not much history about what's happening in the Tower. I recalled the Beefeater tour was more informative the last time. I guess there are so many visitors now that it's too much to walk around a huge tour group. Would I go again? Not sure.