About the Tower
Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, the Tower of London has served as royal palace, fortress, prison, and execution site. Home to the Crown Jewels, guarded by Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), and steeped in tales of Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, and the Princes in the Tower, this UNESCO site tells England's most dramatic stories.
⏰ Hours
- Tue-Sat: 9 AM - 5:30 PM (Nov-Feb until 4:30 PM)
- Sun-Mon: 10 AM - 5:30 PM
- Best: First entry or after 3 PM
💰 Costs
- Entry: £34 adults (book online £32)
- Yeoman Warder tour: Free with entry (every 30 min)
- Blue Badge guide: £250-400 private tour
✨ Highlights
- 👑 Crown Jewels: Imperial State Crown with 3,000 gems
- 🐦 Ravens: Legend says if they leave, kingdom falls
- 💂 Beefeaters: Yeoman Warders in Tudor uniform
- ⚔️ White Tower: Original Norman fortress
📝 Tips
- Book 2-3 weeks ahead on hrp.org.uk
- Crown Jewels first: Lines build after 11 AM
- Beefeater tours: Entertaining and informative (1 hour)
- Plan 3-4 hours: Lots to see