Tower of London tickets

Discover fascinating stories and see iconic sights at London’s famous castle, the Tower of London, where you can explore nearly 1,000 years of its history as a mighty fortress, royal palace and infamous prison.

Marvel at the 100 objects and 23,000 precious stones that make up the Crown Jewels and enjoy a spectacular new Crown Jewels exhibition that opened in 2023. Learn gruesome tales in the Bloody Tower, meet the Yeoman Warders, walk among plants and flowers in the Moat this summer, and much more at this UNESCO World Heritage site in London.

What is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is one of the world’s most famous fortresses with many tales to uncover within the ancient walls.

Explore the importance of the Crown Jewels to the British monarchy and the role the Tower plays in protecting these treasures. The gleaming objects include the Coronation Regalia from the Coronation Spoon to St Edward’s Crown. which have been used in the coronation ceremonies of monarchs for centuries, including that of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in 2023.

Be amazed by the White Tower that was initially built to deter invaders but now houses majestic suits of armour and exciting, hands-on activities for families. The Bloody Tower has an altogether more haunting history – discover murderous tales in this infamous former prison, or learn more about the Tower’s role as a place of torture at Lower Wakefield Tower.

Delve into the history of the Tower as a royal zoo with sculptures of the Royal Beasts and the Royal Beasts exhibition, and explore the Tower’s Mint exhibition and discover where the majority of the country’s coins were made for more than 500 years.

No visit to the Tower of London is complete without meeting its famous residents. Take a tour with the Yeoman Warders (also known as “Beefeaters”) and spot the ravens – legend has it, if these guardian birds were to ever leave the Tower of London, the kingdom would fall. 

How old is the Tower of London?

William the Conqueror built The Tower of London in 1070. Somewhere between 1075-79, the White Tower was built. However, the Tower received editions in the 13th and 14th centuries.

What was the Tower of London used for?

Find out the story behind the Tower of London. Built as a fortress in the 1070s, it was home to many monarchs for more than 500 years.

In 1204, the Tower also hosted the royal menagerie for 600 years, providing housing for many exotic animals.

It might surprise you, but the Tower even served as a Royal Mint from the 13th to 18th century and royals kept precious possessions as well as arms and armour there.

The White Tower, also called Bloody Tower, served as a prison for more than 800 years. Marked by extreme political and religious unrest in the 1500s and 1600s, the Tower was well known for using torture on its inmates. The last execution in the Tower was on 15 August 1941.

What’s there to see at the Tower of London?

From late-May to September each summer, explore beautiful blooms at the Tower Moat, as part of entry to the Tower.

In the evening, attend the historic Ceremony of the Keys, which has taken place each night for 700 years (separate ticket required).

See the spectacular exhibition on the Crown Jewels and discover more stories than ever before about the history and significance of the Crown Jewels.

How long does the Tower of London take to visit?

With so much to see and learn, you could visit for the entire day. But it is recommended to spend at least three hours exploring the Tower of London.

How can I get tickets?

Book Tower of London tickets now.

Where is the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is in Tower Hill, central London.

How to get there:

• Tube - The closest tube station is Tower Hill (District and Circle lines), which is a five-minute walk from the Tower of London. DLR services operate from neighbouring Tower Gateway station, around seven minutes’ walk from the attraction.
• River boats - Just outside the Tower of London, Tower Pier is served by river boats from various piers, including Westminster and London Eye.
• Bus - A number of bus routes stop close to the Tower of London, along Tower Hill and Great Tower Street.