Exploring the Tower of London: A Historical Landmark

The Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of London's premier attractions. With a history spanning over a millennium, this former royal residence has been a fortress, prison, mint, observatory, and even housed a zoo.

Commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1078, the Tower's most notable structure is the White Tower. The complex today includes the Outer Ward and the Inner Ward, with their numerous towers.

Historically, it has imprisoned figures like King David II of Scotland and Queen Elizabeth I. Executions within its walls include Henry VI and two of Henry VIII's wives, with the last occurring during WWII.

1. The White Tower and the Line of Kings

The White Tower stands at the heart of the Inner Ward. Built from white stone, it features the Line of Kings, the world's oldest visitor attraction, showcasing royal armaments and armor.

2. The Jewel House: Home of the Crown Jewels

The Jewel House has safeguarded the Crown Jewels since 1968, including the gold St. Edward's Crown and the diamond-encrusted Imperial State Crown.

3. The Royal Mint

The Royal Mint, once located here, is now an exhibit called Coins and Kings, featuring interactive displays and artifacts from the Royal Mint Museum.

4. The Medieval Palace

The Medieval Palace offers a glimpse into the luxurious lives of past English monarchs with its recreated royal apartments.

5. The Bloody Tower

The Bloody Tower is infamous for its prisoners and dark history, including the imprisonment of Sir Walter Raleigh and the murder of the Princes in the Tower.

6. The Other Towers

The tower complex includes the Middle Tower, Byward Tower, and Bell Tower, among others. The Wakefield Tower is known for housing the tower's ravens.

7. Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula

This chapel is the final resting place for many executed at the tower, including two of Henry VIII's wives.

8. Tower Green

Tower Green is the execution site of several high-profile individuals, including three Queens of England.

9. The Beefeaters and the Ceremony of the Keys

The Beefeaters, or Yeomen Warders, are the ceremonial guardians of the Tower. They also conduct the historic Ceremony of the Keys each evening.

10. The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Museum

This museum details the history of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, showcasing military artifacts and Victoria Crosses.

Where to Stay near the Tower of London

For accommodations near the Tower of London, consider the South Place Hotel, Apex London Wall Hotel, Hotel Indigo London Tower Hill, or the eco-friendly Hub by Premier Inn Spitalfields, Brick Lane.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to the Tower of London

• Tours and Tickets: Skip the line with a Tower of London Entrance Ticket, which includes a Beefeater tour.
• Closures: Check for any closures due to events or ceremonies.
• Timing: Allocate at least three hours for your visit and try to avoid peak times.
• Getting to the Tower of London: Accessible by bus, Tube, and riverboat services.

Address: Tower Hill, London

Official site: www.hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon