The Tower of London, a top attraction in London, is a fascinating mix of a strong fortress and a grand palace. With its rich history of power and dark secrets, there's so much to uncover within its walls.
Originally built to impress Londoners, it was once considered the most secure castle in the city, protecting the royal family and aristocratic treasures during turbulent times. However, behind its imposing façade lay stories of terror. It served as a prison and execution site for many enemies of the crown, intertwining tales of wealth and poverty within its confines.
Getting Tower of London tickets is a must in London, but should you consider a guided tour? Let's explore that question together.
Advantages of A Tower of London Guided Tour?
Convenience and security are guaranteed!
A visit to the expansive Tower of London is a must-see, but it can get quite crowded. Opting for a guided tour means skipping the ticket queues and diving straight into the experience with your guide leading the way. It's a quick way to ensure convenience and security are checked off your list of priorities.
Insight into the curious ravens
At the start of your tour, you'll meet Jubilee, Merlina, and other ravens guarding the enigmatic tower. Keep your distance, as they can bite. Learn about the secrets hidden within the tower walls and gain deeper insight into its many highlights.
Custom-made tours to suit your interests
Discover a range of Tower of London tours tailored just for you: whether it's a private tour, early-access option, Beefeater-led exploration, or a combo tour - we've got everything covered. With plenty of choices available, you're free to select the tour that suits you best.
Fret not about tour logistics
The beauty of guided tours is that you can relax and enjoy without worrying about planning. Simply show up and have a great time: wander through the tower's halls, immerse yourself in its intriguing interiors, while your guide shares stories of the tower's dark past.
A good look at the jewel house
Regardless of whether you opt for a guided tour or not, you'll have the chance to admire the Tower's renowned Jewel House. However, with a knowledgeable guide by your side, you'll gain deeper insights into the precious jewels housed here and their importance in British history.
The Best Tower of London Guided Tours
With a myriad of Tower of London tours available at the tip of your fingers, you no longer have to worry about finding a time slot. Here is a list of our recommended Tower of London tours we think you'll enjoy.
Choosing the Best Tower of London Tour For You
Overwhelmed by the choices of tickets? Need help figuring out what guided tour is ideal for you? Let's find out together.
1Guided Tour with St. Paul's Cathedral and Thames River Cruise
Discover two of London's most famous sights: St. Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London. Admire the dazzling Crown Jewels, delve into the Tower's dramatic past, and enjoy a scenic cruise along the River Thames!
2Access to Crown Jewels
One of the Tower of London's main draws is its collection of crown jewels. A guided tour of this exhibit is truly fascinating, offering insights and captivating details about this remarkable display. You can even opt for an early-morning tour, avoiding the crowds and marveling at the jewels in peaceful surroundings.
3Includes Hotel Pickup
What could be more convenient than a tour that starts with hotel pickup and ends with drop-off? Not much! Simply provide your details when booking your ticket, and everything else will be taken care of, leaving you free to soak in the beauty of London.
Tower of London: Guided Tour Highlights
The Tower of London's Treasures
Hidden within the Tower of London are the Crown Jewels, a remarkable collection primarily created for King Charles II. Interestingly, some of these jewels are still worn by the queen today! Look for the 'In Use' tag to spot them. Notable pieces include the Sovereign ring and St Edward’s Crown. Besides jewelry, visitors can also explore historically significant items like royal serving dishes.
Discovering History with Yeoman Warders
The Yeoman Warders offer an engaging tour of the Tower of London, sharing captivating stories from its past. From its origins as a fortress to its role as a prison, they recount the Tower's evolving history. Learn about the construction of the White Tower, the notable prisoners who faced execution within its walls, and more.
The Iconic White Tower
One of London's most iconic structures, the White Tower, originally built for defense against invaders, now stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, visitors can explore the Royal Armouries collections, showcasing artifacts dating back 350 years. Don't miss the enchanting 11th-century Chapel Royal of St John, nestled within the castle's walls.
Unraveling Legends at the Bloody Tower
Once known as the Garden Tower, the Bloody Tower gained notoriety for the mysterious deaths of Edward V and his brother Richard, the Duke of York, rumored to have occurred there. Legend has it that the spirits of these young princes linger within its walls, adding an eerie allure to this historic site.
Tower of London Practical Information
Opening Hours
Open daily from 9 AM – 5:30 PM.
Timings are subject to change. We recommend you check the timings on the official website on the day you head out.
Getting to the Tower of London
Adress: London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom. Get Directions
The Tower of London can be easily accessed by public transport plus. Most hop on hop off tour buses also stop at the Tower.
- Tube: The closest tube station is Tower Hill (Circle and District lines).
- Bus: 15, 42, 78, 100, and RV1.
- Overground: The closest stations are Fenchurch Street and London Bridge.
- Riverboat: The closest river access point is Tower Pier.
Tower of London Tours: Travel Tips
Here are some handy tips to keep in mind while booking your Tower of London tour:
- To avoid the hustle and bustle that engulfs the tower on any given day, make sure that you arrive right at the opening time. This will give you time to explore in peace without running into tourists at every corner.
- If you are planning to explore the Tower of London, it would be wise to first visit the exhibition displaying the Crown Jewels. Since this is one of the most popular attractions, it will soon get crowded and you will have to wait for hours to gain entry.
- You cannot stand and admire the Crown Jewels for as long as you want. In order to avoid the blockage of the display cases, visitors are required to step on a conveyor belt that will take them around the collection. If you feel that you did not get enough time with the Crown Jewels, fret not! You can simply get back on the conveyor belt and admire the collection all over again.
- Even during peak hours while the main areas are swamped with tourists, you can always find one or two quiet spots in the vicinity. If you are looking to spend some down time admiring the towers, head over to the benches near the South Battlements. They offer you an unrivaled view of the White Tower.
- Due to security reasons, photography is not allowed in certain areas. The rules are quite strict, so make sure that you comply with them for a hassle-free trip.
FAQs
How long does a Tower of London tour take?
How long does a Tower of London tour take?
Which are the attractions covered in a Tower of London tour?
Which are the attractions covered in a Tower of London tour?
Do I need to buy Tower of London tour in advance?
Do I need to buy Tower of London tour in advance?
Can I take photographs of the Crown Jewels?
Can I take photographs of the Crown Jewels?
Can I bring food into the Tower of London?
Can I bring food into the Tower of London?
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