You could wander in blind and hope the Crown Jewels queue isn’t an hour long—or you could read this How to Visit the Tower of London guide. We’ll show you how to dodge the crowds, decode the bloody lore, and emerge three hours later feeling like you’ve conquered Britain’s most storied stronghold.
The Tower of London has worn many hats: royal palace, prison, armory, treasury, and even a zoo. Built by William the Conqueror in 1078, it quickly became a symbol of power and control. Today, it’s one of the best places in Britain to come face-to-face with medieval history, from the Crown Jewels to the stories of those who never made it out.
Intrigued? Let’s dive into the key things to know before your visit to the Tower of London.
The Tower of London stands on the north bank of the Thames, right where the ancient city meets the modern skyline. You’ll spot its iconic turrets just beside Tower Bridge, near the edge of London’s financial district.
Tube: Hop off at Tower Hill (District & Circle lines) and you’re five minutes from the gates. Step-free access available.
DLR: Tower Gateway station is a seven-minute walk—ideal if you’re coming from Canary Wharf.
Bus: Routes 15, 42, 78, 100, RV1 all stop on Tower Hill or Great Tower Street.
Taxi/Rideshare: Tell the driver “Tower of London main entrance”—expect £10-£15 from most Zone 1 hotels.
Interessante Fact: In 1381, rebels in the Peasants’ Revolt waltzed through these very gates and forced the king to watch his treasurer get beheaded. Even “impregnable” castles have bad days.
👉 Prefer someone else to handle logistics? Our London in a Day Tour bundles Westminster, the Changing of the Guard, a Thames cruise, and fast-track Tower entry.
How Long Does It Take to Visit the Tower of London?
A guided tour typically lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours, and you’ll get a great intro to the Tower’s darker tales. After that, give yourself at least another hour to explore on your own. If you’re visiting without a guide, budget at least 2.5 hours.
What to See Inside the Tower of London
Here’s your ultimate hit list (👀 Click on the name of the stop for a detailed explanation):
The Crown Jewels – 600 years of bling, including the (supposedly cursed) Koh-i-Nûr diamond worn only by queens.
Tower Green – Execution site of Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey—look for the glass memorial.
The White Tower & Line of Kings – Norman keep stuffed with Henry VIII’s XXL armour and a 17th-century rifle shaped like a lion.
The Bloody Tower – Prison of Sir Walter Raleigh and the tragic Princes in the Tower.
The Ravens – Six resident birds cared for by the Ravenmaster; legend says the monarchy will fall if they fly away.
Turning up without tickets: Sold-out signs land by morning in July.
Lining for the Crown Jewels first thing: Queues shrink after lunch.
Skipping the riverside wall walk: The best bridge photos are up here.
Underestimating the size: The complex spans 18 acres—be smart and allow for a few hours to explore.
Ignoring weather. Wind whips off the Thames; pack layers or freeze on the battlements.
Interessante Fact: The Kray twins—London’s 20th-century gangsters—were among the Tower’s last prisoners in 1952, jailed for dodging national service.
Secret Tip
After your Tower visit, exit via the Mint Street gate and walk five minutes to London Bridge Station. A one-stop Northern line ride takes you straight to Borough Market, where you can grab a gourmet lunch at one of the many stalls.
Parliament Square Statues: Snap photos of Churchill, Gandhi, and Fawcett with the clock tower looming behind.
London Eye: Cross Westminster Bridge for a 30-minute spin above the Thames.
Churchill War Rooms: Underground bunker that steered Britain through the Blitz.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Tower of London
How long does it take to visit the Tower of London?
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the Tower of London, including time for the Crown Jewels and a Yeoman Warder tour.
Do I need to buy Tower of London tickets in advance?
It’s highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons and weekends, to avoid long queues.
Is the Crown Jewels exhibit included with Tower of London admission?
Yes, general admission includes access to the Crown Jewels, though lines can be long during busy hours.
What’s the best time of day to visit the Tower of London?
Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds, especially if you want a quieter view of the Crown Jewels.
Can I see the famous ravens at the Tower of London?
Yes, the resident ravens roam the grounds and are one of the Tower’s most iconic sights—legend says the kingdom will fall if they ever leave.
Final Thoughts on How to Visit the Tower of London
Three hours inside Britain’s oldest fortress will leave your camera full and your brain buzzing with treachery, jewels, and squawking ravens. Book a tour or lock in timed tickets, wear decent shoes, and remember to look up—those arrow loops once meant life or death.
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