The Tower of London is the most important collection of historic buildings in the country and is the most liked tourist attraction. This incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site has a long history and some parts date back to more than a thousand years. It has served as a stronghold (which was frequently besieged but never captured), a royal palace, a jail and a place of execution, a royal mint and a treasure vault, an observatory, and for five centuries, a private zoo.
The first Tower, known as the White Tower, was constructed in 1078 by William the Conqueror to guard London. It was known to keep a watch on the city's inhabitants and monitor boat activity on the River Thames. The tower complex spans around 18 acres and comprises the Inner Ward, which has 13 towers. The Outer Ward is enclosed by a wall with six towers and two bastions.
How to explore the Tower of London?
- Explore the White Tower, the Chapel of St. Peter, and the Crown Jewels.
- Check out the Royal Mint Exhibition, the Battlements, the Medieval Palace, the Bloody Tower, the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, the Fusiliers Museum, and the Beauchamp Tower
- Beefeater or Yeoman Warder will take you on a tour of the Tower of London. No reservation is needed here as they depart from the main gate every hour. Typically, the first tour begins at 10 am, and the last trip ends at 2.30 pm.
- The executioner's block from the 18th century and the axe used in the Tower's executions during the Tudor era may still be seen at the Tower's summit.
- The White Tower's Line of the Kings museum is one of the world's oldest tourist attractions, and it features a massive collection of weapons and armor.
- Get fascinated by the Crown Jewels, a collection of 140 ceremonial artifacts housed in the Tower of London. They represent eight hundred years of British monarchy through the regalia and vestments worn by monarchs during their coronations.
- The Ceremony of the Keys is among the Tower of London's most distinctive experiences. It is held every night from 9.30 pm to 10.30 pm. Be a part of this event to experience the extravaganza of this place.
Which places to dine near the Tower of London?
- Check out the New Armouries Café for a complete meal. They provide hot food such as fish and chips, sandwiches, soup, salads, baked goods, and pastries.
- Manage your hunger pangs at RAVENS CAFÉ near this Tower. It offers delicious nibbles for the move. With breathtaking views of the Tower, the outdoor café at the Tower is a perfect place to enjoy delicious British sausages. It is a modern outdoor seating kiosk located beneath the castle walls.
- Have lunch and afternoon tea at The Reveller for a delectable seated meal or afternoon tea. The Reveller offers a view of the famous London skyline and the River Thames.