Best for
History lovers, first-time London visitors, royal history enthusiasts
Time needed
3–4 hours
Worth it?
Yes — one of London's essential historic sights
Skip if
You have under 90 minutes in the city — it needs more time than that
About Tower of London
William the Conqueror began the White Tower, the fortress's oldest and central keep, around 1078 to secure his hold on newly conquered London — making the Tower of London nearly 1,000 years old and one of the best-preserved Norman castles anywhere. Successive medieval kings expanded it into the concentric fortress seen today, adding curtain walls, a moat (long since drained) and additional towers.
The Crown Jewels, kept in the Jewel House since the 17th century, are the single biggest draw — a working collection of coronation regalia including St Edward's Crown, used at every coronation since Charles II's in 1661, and the Cullinan I diamond, the largest colourless cut diamond in the world, mounted in the Sovereign's Sceptre. A moving walkway keeps the queue flowing past the jewels themselves.
Read the full storyShow less
Beyond the jewels, the White Tower houses the Royal Armouries' collection of arms and armour, including Henry VIII's own suits. Tower Green marks the site of private executions of high-status prisoners (including two of Henry VIII's wives), while the Tower's role as a prison, royal mint, and even a zoo across different centuries is covered throughout the site. Free 60-minute tours led by Yeoman Warders ("Beefeaters") — resident guardians of the Tower who must have served at least 22 years in the armed forces — run throughout the day and are one of the best free additions to any ticket.
Given the scale of the site and the volume of visitors it draws, especially around the Crown Jewels, this rewards at least half a day rather than a rushed hour.
What to See: Highlights
- 1The Crown Jewels, including St Edward's Crown and the Cullinan I diamond
- 2The White Tower's Royal Armouries collection, including Henry VIII's armour
- 3Free Yeoman Warder ("Beefeater") guided tours, included with admission
- 4Tower Green, site of Tudor-era executions
- 5The resident ravens, protected by centuries of royal superstition
- 6Nearly 1,000 years of continuous royal and military history
Skip the Queue — Book Tickets Online
Same admission, instant confirmation. Compare prices across platforms.
Affiliate disclosure — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Insider Tips
Book timed-entry tickets online in advance — they're cheaper than on the day and guarantee your slot
Join a free Yeoman Warder tour as soon as you arrive — the last one departs at 15:15
Head to the Crown Jewels early or late in the day to avoid the longest queues
Budget at least half a day for the full site — it's larger than it looks from outside
The White Tower's spiral staircases and uneven floors mean flat, comfortable shoes help
Book a Guided Tour
Get the most from your visit with a local expert guide.
Affiliate disclosure — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Getting There
Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB
Open in Google Maps →- 1Tower Hill (Circle, District lines) — directly outside. Tower Gateway DLR is also a 2-minute walk.
Where to stay
Hotels in London
Compare prices across hundreds of hotels near this attraction — from budget hostels to luxury stays. Free cancellation on most rooms.
Affiliate disclosure — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Powered by Booking.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you visit.
Is Tower of London worth visiting?+−
How long does a visit to Tower of London take?+−
Who is Tower of London best for?+−
Do I need to book tickets in advance for Tower of London?+−
Is Tower of London included with the London city pass?+−
Should You Visit?
Visit if...
- You want to see the Crown Jewels and genuine medieval armouries in one visit
- You enjoy Tudor and medieval royal history
- You're happy to queue at busy times for one of London's top sights
- You have half a day free to explore properly
Skip if...
- You have less than 90 minutes in London and other sights are higher priority
- You've already seen extensive Crown Jewels/royal regalia collections elsewhere
- Crowds and queues at peak times are a dealbreaker for you
Ready to Book Your Visit?
More to See in London
Tower Bridge
London's iconic Victorian bascule bridge, free to cross on foot, with a paid glass-floor walkway 42 metres above the Thames and Victorian engine rooms below.
Thames River Cruise (Uber Boat by Thames Clippers)
A fast, frequent catamaran river-bus service that doubles as a scenic sightseeing cruise, linking Westminster, the London Eye, Tower Bridge and Greenwich along the Thames.