Tower of London

The Tower of London was founded in the 11th century and the famous White Tower was built in 1078 by William the Conqueror. This beautiful fairytale Palace, with the famous crown jewels, is perched on the banks of the River Thames and is one of the most visited attractions in the world!

Outside Tower of London

It was built as a Palace and fortress and for many years was used as a prison for royalty and clergy. Famous for political intrigue this beautiful Palace is where many Royals spent their last days.

Queen Anne Boleyn (mother of Elizabeth 1) was beheaded for treason against Henry V111 and many still say her ghost haunts the Tower today.

There are many famous nursery ryhymes which describe the horrors of life in England during this time.

London Bridge is Falling Down and London Bridge is Broken Down synically describe the hatred the people of England felt for Anne Boleyn. Their criticism was encouraged and it wasn't until after her death (when her daughter Elizabeth 1 ascended the throne), that the criticism stopped.

Anne Askew is the only woman to have been tortured on the rack in the Tower before being burned at the stake for her protestant beliefs.

The place of execution was Tower Green and All Hallows Church (Byward Street), EC3R 5BJ was where the bodies executed at the Tower were sent.

Tower of London

The Tower is officially a Royal Palace and although the Royal Family no longer reside here, the Palace is always guarded.

There are many buildings inside the Tower which is surrounded by walls and a moat which at Christmas becomes a skating rink. The setting is great and very romantic! - From 22 November 2008 to 11 January 2009 - Ice Skating Tickets

Entrance to Tower of London

This is one of the world's major tourist attractions with over 2.5 million visitors.

Tip! - Don't forget to cross Tower Bridge - turn right and take a stroll down the very trendy and arty Bankside and Southbank of London.

Getting Here

Tube: Tower Hill (Circle & District line/DLR)
Bus: 15 serves the Tower of London and Tower Bridge

Opening Hours

1 November - 28 February
Tuesday - Saturday: 09.00-17.00
Sunday - Monday: 10.00-17.00
Last admission: 16.00

1 March - 31 October
Monday - Saturday: 09.00-18.00
Sunday: 10.00-18.00
Last admission: 17.00

All internal buildings close 30 minutes after the last admission. The Tower closes one hour after the last admission. The Tower is closed 24-26 December and 1 January (inclusive).