What Is the Tower of London & Why Is It So Famous?

Right by the River Thames, the Tower of London has been watching over the city for almost a thousand years. It was built back in 1078 by William the Conqueror to protect his new kingdom and establish a stronghold in the heart of London.

Since then, this place has seen it all. It’s been a royal palace, prison, treasury, armory, and even a zoo at one point! Kings and queens have ruled from here - and some have been imprisoned within these walls.

As the British Empire grew, the Tower became more than just a fortress. It stood as a symbol of royal power, holding the Crown Jewels and guarding treasures that represented the reach of a kingdom that once ruled much of the world.

Today, the Tower is one of the UK’s most iconic landmarks - and a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, you’ll discover sparkling jewels, historic battlements, chilling tales, and the legendary ravens who still live here, keeping centuries of tradition alive.

What Awaits You Inside the Tower

Step into royal power, legend, and medieval brilliance - all within one fortress. From glittering jewels to chilling stories, here’s what makes the Tower unforgettable:

  • The Crown Jewels - Timeless symbols of royal authority, with over 23,000 precious stones still used in coronations.
  • The Bloody Tower - A place of secrets, betrayal, and the mystery of the vanished princes.
  • The Ravens - Legendary guardians of the monarchy, cared for by the iconic Beefeaters.
  • Tower Green - The solemn execution site of queens, wrapped in eerie silence.
  • Medieval Architecture - Explore the White Tower, spiral staircases, and centuries-old stonework built to rule and defend.

Location & Opening Hours

  • Address: Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB

Located right next to Tower Hill Underground Station - easy to reach by tube, bus, or riverboat.

  • Opening Hours:
    • Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    • Sunday & Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

The last entry is one hour before closing time.

Note: Opening times may vary on holidays or during special events. When you book with Amazing Walks, we take care of all timings and tickets for you.

Why Take a Guided Walking Tour of the Tower?

Well, you can explore the Tower on your own - or even catch a free Yeoman Warder talk. But here’s what most visitors miss: the full story.

Free talks cover just a small area and often skip key parts like the Crown Jewels, the upper towers, or the deeper royal conspiracies.

With a dedicated walking tour, you go beyond the surface.

You’ll walk the full grounds with an expert guide who brings every stone to life - with stories of treason, escape plots, royal marriages, and betrayals that shaped British history.

Guided Tour vs Free Entry – What’s the Difference?

Features Free Entry or Self-Guided Visit Amazing Walks Guided Tour
Skip-the-Line Access ❌ No ✅ Yes – Pre-booked entry with the group
Crown Jewels Insights ❌ No guide, long queues ✅ Guided visit with history & symbolism explained
Yeoman Warder Talk ✅ Free 20-min talk (limited area) ✅ Deeper storytelling across the full Tower
White Tower & Armoury ✅ Entry, self-exploration ✅ Guided context and stories throughout
Medieval Palace Walkthrough ✅ On your own ✅ Guided with royal history & hidden details
Bloody Tower & Imprisonment Stories ❌ Little to no context ✅ Full narrative with real prisoner backstories
Tower Green & Executions ✅ Viewpoint only ✅ Emotional storytelling with historical depth
Ravens & Beefeater Traditions ❌ Surface info ✅ Legends explained + interaction if possible
Best Photo Spots & Tips ❌ Discover yourself ✅ Get insider tips during the walk
Historical Expertise ❌ None ✅ Expert guide with deep Tower knowledge
Personalized Experience ❌ No ✅ Small group, engaging Q&A throughout
Tour Duration No structure 2–2.5 hours, optimized to cover all key highlights
Overall Value Basic access Premium experience, immersive storytelling

How Amazing Walks Enhances Your Tower of London Walking Tour

Amazing Walks makes it easy for you to book Tower of London tickets directly - without any hassle.

We also offer several guided walking tours that finish right at the entrance of the Tower. While you’ll explore the Tower on your own after the tour, our guide will give you all the essential information you need beforehand - including what to see, how to navigate inside, and helpful tips to make the most of your visit.

Whether you’re booking a Tower of London ticket directly, or choosing one of our tours that lead you there, Amazing Walks helps make your experience smooth, informed, and stress-free.

Suggested Timings & Itinerary for Your Tower of London Walking Tour

Duration: Approx. 2-2.5 hours

  • Meet your guide at Tower Hill with a brief historical introduction
  • Enter the Tower complex with pre-booked group access
  • Visit the Crown Jewels before peak crowds
  • Take in insights from the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) and their royal traditions
  • Explore the White Tower & Royal Armouries
  • Walk through the Medieval Palace and former royal lodgings
  • Head into the Imprisonment exhibits - real stories of traitors, queens, and rebels
  • Discover the Bloody Tower - home of the vanished princes
  • Visit the Torture at the Tower exhibit and learn about interrogation techniques
  • Reflect at Tower Green, site of royal executions
  • See the ravens and learn about the legend that protects the kingdom
  • Wrap up with riverside views and nearby tips from your guide

Tower of London Walking Map

Why do travelers choose our Tower of London Walking Tour?

At Amazing Walks, we specialize in creating memorable and personalized experiences through our expertly designed walking tours in London. Perfect for families, couples, small groups, or solo travelers, our tours offer the flexibility and personal attention you need to explore the city comfortably and meaningfully.

  • Years of Experience: We’ve proudly welcomed thousands of guests on unforgettable journeys, delivering professional service and unique insights with every step.
  • Knowledgeable Local Guides: Our friendly and experienced guides offer deeper stories and historical context, making your private guided tour of London both informative and engaging.
  • Landmarks and Hidden Gems: From world-famous sites to off-the-beaten-path discoveries, our routes showcase the best of the city, tailored to your interests.
  • Custom Itineraries: Whether you want a relaxed overview or an in-depth exploration, we customize each private walking tour London experience to suit your schedule, pace, and curiosity.
  • Unforgettable Moments: More than just sightseeing, our tours create lasting memories through storytelling, connection, and authentic local experiences.

Other Things to do Near Tower of London

After your Tower visit, explore more of what central London has to offer — all within walking distance:

  • Tower Bridge: Walk across London’s most iconic drawbridge with glass-floor views.
  • St. Katharine Docks: A quiet marina filled with cafes, pubs, and waterfront charm.
  • Thames River Cruise: Hop on a boat for scenic views of London’s skyline from the water.
  • Sky Garden: Free-entry rooftop garden with stunning panoramic views (advance booking needed).
  • Borough Market: One of London’s oldest and most popular food markets - perfect for lunch.
  • The Monument to the Great Fire of London: Climb 311 steps to a historic viewpoint.
  • Walk along the Thames Path: Scenic riverside strolls leading toward the South Bank or Westminster.

FAQs

Can you walk around the Tower of London for free?

You can walk around the outside of the Tower (along the river or Tower Hill), but to enter the Tower grounds and buildings, you’ll need a paid ticket.

Is 2 hours enough for the Tower of London?

Yes, 2 hours is usually enough to see the main highlights - especially with a guided tour that covers everything efficiently.

How long does it take to walk the Tower of London?

A self-guided visit typically takes 2 to 3 hours. A well-paced guided tour, like ours, takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.

Can you walk over the Tower of London?

You can’t walk over the Tower, but you can walk on the surrounding walls and battlements inside the complex, which offer great views.

Are there toilets in the Tower of London?

Yes, there are several toilet facilities inside, including accessible toilets.

How much is the entry fee for the Tower of London?

Standard adult tickets cost around £33, but we may include entry + expert guide in one simple booking.

What is the best day of the week to visit the Tower of London?

Weekdays - especially Tuesday to Thursday - are best for smaller crowds. Avoid weekends and school holidays if possible.

Is Tower Bridge worth visiting?

Yes! It’s just a short walk from the Tower and offers great views, a glass floor, and an engine room tour - definitely worth it.

What to do near the Tower of London?

Visit Tower Bridge, stroll along the Thames, explore St. Katharine Docks, or grab lunch at Borough Market nearby.

Which tube stops for the Tower of London?

The closest station is Tower Hill (District & Circle lines), just a 3-minute walk from the entrance.

Can you take photos inside the Tower of London?

Yes, photography is allowed in most areas - except inside the Jewel House, where the Crown Jewels are displayed.

Is it worth it to enter the Tower of London?

Absolutely! It’s one of the most iconic historic sites in Britain, with incredible stories, royal artifacts, and unforgettable sights.

Is the Tower of London claustrophobic?

Most areas are open and spacious. Some staircases and towers are narrow, but nothing extreme - and you're always free to skip tighter spots.

How long does it take to spend at the Tower of London?

Plan for 2 to 3 hours depending on your interest. A guided tour helps you make the most of your time without missing key parts.

What else is close to the Tower of London?

Nearby highlights include Tower Bridge, the Sky Garden, The Monument, London Bridge, and scenic riverside walks.

What can you buy at the Tower of London?

Gift shops offer royal-themed souvenirs, books, jewellery, kids’ items, and Tower-exclusive merchandise.

What is the best tour of the Tower of London?

A small-group guided walking tour like the ones offered by Amazing Walks gives you the best experience - with in-depth stories, priority entry, and no guesswork.

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