Tower of London

• Embark on the Meet the Yeoman Warders Tour for a brilliant way to discover the 1,000 years of history of this iconic site.
• Walk in the footsteps of those who faced execution on Tower Green and learn all about the three beheaded queens of England; Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard and Lady Jane Grey.
• You'll be blown away when you see the Crown Jewels in all their glory. Over 30 million people have visited them at the Tower!
• Explore the Royal Armouries in the 1,000-year-old White Tower. Marvel at the Line of Kings; one of the earliest museum exhibits.

Experience history where it happened and take a visit to the Tower of London. One of the capital’s most famous historical landmarks with a rich and fascinating history, it's no surprise that well over 3 million people visit the Tower of London each year.

Founded by William the Conqueror towards the end of 1066, the Tower was originally built as a royal palace and defence system and took around 20 years to build in total. This 900-year-old castle has so much history to explore. Mini historians can learn about the many different purposes that the Tower served in its day – it was home to the Royal Mint and even a zoo, and throughout history, it has been a fortress, palace and prison. Now, the Tower is the protector of the Crown Jewels and is home to the Yeoman Warders, the Resident Governor and a garrison of soldiers.

If you visit, why not take a free guided tour by a Yeoman Warders (also known as a Beefeaters and Tower of London guards), who have been protecting the Tower since Tudor times. Unearth the Tower’s secrets as you’re guided by a knowledgeable Beefeater. There’s no doubt, it will get your kids excited about history. Could you have a better guide to take you inside the Tower of London? Kidadler Tanya says the "kids loved it", and Elizabeth recommends taking "one of the beefeater tours, they're really good and informative."

Be prepared to be dazzled by the breathtaking world-famous Crown Jewels, which have an estimated worth of over £20 billion. It’s no surprise that visitors question if they’re real!

Looking to make the day of it and visit more London attractions? Walk to Tower Bridge, which will transport you to Victorian London. Or take a trip to Hampton Court Palace and learn about this former home of Henry VIII. Windsor Castle is also worth a visit for more royal history! If you're on the hunt for a more deluxe London sightseeing experience, why not explore the capital in style on a beautifully restored Routemaster bus with afternoon tea at Westminster Abbey.

What to know before you go

• Looked after by the Historic Royal Palaces, the Tower is owned by The Queen ‘in Right of Crown’.
• The Tower of London opening times during the summer period (1 March - 31 October) are 10am - 6pm on Wednesday - Sunday. During the winter season (1 November - 28 February) opening hours are 9am – 4.30pm on Tuesday – Saturday and 10am - 4.30pm on Sundays and Mondays. The Tower of London is closed between 24 - 26 December and on 1 January.
• Allow a minimum of 3 hours' exploring time to get the most out of your visit.
• You will find baby-changing facilities at the New Armouries Café, at the Brick Toilets (behind the Jewel House) and near the Salt Tower.
• There is disabled access, but please be aware that some of the stairs and passageways are difficult and access will be limited.
• Some walkways are cobbled, so you may want to leave your buggy in the holding areas, which are either next to the Salt Tower, next to Middle Drawbridge or at the entrance to the White Tower.
• For families, there is a Time Explorers app to download. You can also pick up a fun family trail to help guide and entertain your kids.
• Get there as early so you can to avoid the queues and once inside, go straight to the Crown Jewels, as this gets crowded later.
• You are welcome to take a picnic to enjoy in the outdoor spaces. There are also three cafes and restaurants at the Tower and lots of places to eat nearby, including a Strada at St Katherine docks and Brasseries Blanc at Tower Bridge.
• The Tower of London ice rink is the perfect family activity during the festive winter months. It is open from November until January.

Getting there

• The Tower of London is located on the north bank of the River Thames.
• The nearest Tube station to the Tower of London is Tower Hill (District and Circle lines), a five-minute walk away. Several mainline stations are nearby; Fenchurch Street is a 7-minute walk and London Bridge is a 10-15 minute walk. The latter also has London Underground services.
• The number 15 bus stops outside the Tower of London.
• By boat, the Thames Clipper stops at the Tower Pier.
• There is no parking at the Tower. Tower Hill car park is nearby.