About Tower of London
Discover the Tower of London
The Tower of London, officially Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is one of the world's most iconic historic landmarks. Standing proudly on the north bank of the River Thames, this historic fortress has served many roles over its nearly 1,000-year history—as a royal palace, a notorious prison, a place of execution, an armory, a treasury, and the home of the Crown Jewels.
Visitors can explore the imposing White Tower, marvel at the dazzling Crown Jewels, meet the legendary Yeoman Warders (affectionately known as Beefeaters), and discover the famous ravens that guard the grounds.
Highlights of Your Visit
- The Crown Jewels: View the priceless ceremonial regalia used by British monarchs during coronation ceremonies, including crowns, scepters, and orb.
- The White Tower: Built by William the Conqueror in 1078, housing the Royal Armouries collection including royal armors of Henry VIII and Charles I.
- Medieval Palace: Step back in time to explore reconstructed medieval chambers used by medieval kings and queens.
- Bloody Tower & Traitors' Gate: Uncover dark tales of royal prisoners, political intrigue, and unsolved mysteries such as the Princes in the Tower.
History
A Thousand Years of Royal History
The history of the Tower of London begins in 1066 following the Norman Conquest. William the Conqueror commissioned the construction of the formidable White Tower around 1078 to demonstrate Norman military strength and intimidate the citizens of London.
Over subsequent centuries, successive monarchs extended the fortress by adding curtain walls and concentric defenses. During the Tudor period, the Tower earned its grim reputation as a prison and site of execution. Notable figures imprisoned or executed here include Queen Anne Boleyn, Queen Catherine Howard, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Walter Raleigh.
Despite its bloody reputation, the Tower was also a royal residence, an observatory, the original site of the Royal Mint, and even housed the Royal Menagerie of exotic animals before they were moved to London Zoo in 1835. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, it remains an essential pillar of British cultural heritage.