Tower of London, London
Is it any wonder that the Tower Of London is the nation's leading historic visitor attraction? This ancient fortress was founded by William the Conqueror and almost 1, 000 years of British history have been played out within its walls. It was here that Anne Boleyn was excecuted. Guy Fawkes interrogated. Richard II and Elizabeth I incarcerated and the 'Princes in the Tower' disappeared without trace. Standing guard by the River Thames, The Tower is an impressive London landmark. Discover the secrets that lie within its walls, marvel at the breathtaking Crown Jewels, stand on the site where three English queens were beheaded and explore the myths and legends that make a visit to The Tower a fantastic day out.
The Crown Jewels
Gain a fascinating insight into the role of the Crown Jewels in royal pageantry with our introductory films which include rare colour footage of HM Queen Elizabeth II's coronation. Once inside the Treasury, marvel at the Imperial State Crown worn at the State Opening of Parliament and be dazzled by the world's largest, top-quality cut diamond, Cullinan I, set in the Sovereign's Sceptre. The Jewel House Wardens will be on hand to answer any questions about this priceless collection. Learn more about the history of the Crown Jewels in the Crown and Diamonds exhibition in the Martin Tower.
Yeoman Warder 'Beefeater' Tours
Nobody knows more about the history of The Tower than the Yeoman Warders and no visit is complete without joining one of their tours. Having guarded this royal palace and fortress for centuries they will captivate you with amazing stories, passed on from generation to generation, and guide you to the infamous Traitors' Gate and the execution site. They'll also give you the unique opportunity to visit the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula, final resting place of those executed inside The Tower. Tours are held throughout the day.
The White Tower
The first stones of this imposing structure were laid around 1078 by order of William the Conqueror. Its mighty walls are now home to displays from the Royal armouries including original armours worn by Henry VIII and Charles I plus a reconstructed display of the massive collection of weapons once housed in the Grand Storehouse. Visit the 'Spanish Armoury' which contains The Tower's historic instruments of torture, including the infamous block and axe, and then pause for a more peaceful moment in the beautifully preserved 11th century Chapel of St John the Evangelist.
Torture At The Tower
Visit the new exhibition in the Lower Wakefield Tower. See a range of replica torture instruments used in past centuries on unfortunate prisoners and learn more about the victims and torturers with interactive touch screens.
Ravens
The Ravens are one of The Tower's most famous sights. These magnificent birds have lived within its walls for hundreds of years and legend has it that, if they leave, the kingdom will fall. Look out for these unique guardians around The Tower and make sure you visit their lodgings.
Special Events
A spectacular programme of special events runs throughout the year. Costumed guides bring the intrigue, tales and daring exploits associated with The Tower to life.