Inside the Tower of London: Crown Jewels, Beefeaters & Secrets

Welcome to the Tower of London, one of England’s most storied and iconic landmarks. As your tour guide today, I’ll walk you through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering insight into its 1,000-year history as a fortress, prison, royal palace, and home of the Crown Jewels.

📍 Where Is the Tower of London?

Location: Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom
Nearby Landmarks: Tower Bridge, the Shard, River Thames, HMS Belfast

Situated on the north bank of the River Thames, the Tower of London is easy to reach and sits in the heart of the capital’s historic center.

🕰️ A Brief History of the Tower of London

Founded in 1066 after William the Conqueror’s Norman invasion

White Tower completed in 1078 – the oldest part of the fortress

Used as a royal residence, treasury, arsenal, and prison

Infamous for housing royal prisoners like Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes

Site of executions, coronation regalia storage, and home to royal guards

The Tower’s rich past blends royal drama, political intrigue, and chilling tales of imprisonment and execution. Today, it’s a living museum of Britain’s monarchy.

👑 Top Things to See at the Tower of London

1. The Crown Jewels

Housed in the Jewel House

Includes the Imperial State Crown, Sovereign’s Sceptre, and the Koh-i-Noor Diamond

Still used in royal ceremonies like the State Opening of Parliament

Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines—this is the Tower’s most popular attraction.

2. The White Tower

The oldest part of the complex (built in 1078)

Originally a royal palace and military stronghold

Houses displays of armor, weapons, and historic royal artifacts

3. Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters)

Officially called Yeoman Warders

Live on-site and offer free guided tours filled with stories of torture, ghosts, and royal scandal

A must-do for any visitor!

4. The Ravens

Legend says: "If the ravens leave the Tower, the kingdom will fall."

At least six ravens are kept on the grounds at all times

Meet Jubilee, Harris, and other famous Tower ravens

5. The Medieval Palace

Reconstructed rooms from the 13th-century palace of Henry III and Edward I

Offers a glimpse into royal life in the Middle Ages

6. Prisoner Graffiti in Beauchamp Tower

See etchings made by prisoners over centuries

Offers a deeply personal insight into the lives of those held here

7. Traitors' Gate

The infamous water gate entrance used to bring prisoners into the Tower

Anne Boleyn and Sir Thomas More entered the Tower through this gate

8. Execution Site

Memorial to those who were executed on Tower Green

Notable names include Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and Catherine Howard

🎟️ Ticket Information (2025 Estimates)

Opening Hours:

Summer: 09:00–17:30 (Sun–Mon: 10:00–17:30)

Winter: 09:00–16:30 (Sun–Mon: 10:00–16:30)

💡 Tip: Purchase tickets online at Historic Royal Palaces to skip the lines and save time.

🚆 How to Get to the Tower of London

🚇 By Tube:

Tower Hill Station (District & Circle lines) – 2 min walk

London Bridge Station (Jubilee & Northern lines) – 15 min walk

🚍 By Bus:

Routes 15, 42, 78, 100, RV1

🚤 By River Boat:

Tower Pier is served by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers

📷 Best Photo Spots

Tower Bridge backdrop – Beautiful contrast with the medieval Tower

Outside the White Tower – For dramatic historical vibes

Ravens on the green – A fun, iconic shot

View from Tower Hill – Great panoramic photos of the entire site

📅 Best Time to Visit

Morning (right at opening) – For quieter views of the Crown Jewels

Weekdays – Avoid weekend and school holiday crowds

Spring or Autumn – Comfortable weather and fewer tourists

🧭 Sample Itinerary (2–3 Hours)

Enter and explore Crown Jewels (early)

Join a Yeoman Warder Tour

Visit the White Tower

See the Medieval Palace and Traitors’ Gate

End at Beauchamp Tower and gift shop

🛍️ Gift Shops and Souvenirs

Pick up royal-themed gifts like:

Replica Crown Jewels

Raven plush toys

Medieval swords and helmets for kids

Tower of London mugs, books, and ornaments

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Tips

Children’s audio guides available

Interactive displays and activity trails

Family-friendly cafés inside

Great for school-age kids learning history

♿ Accessibility

Many areas are wheelchair accessible

Some historic buildings have limited access due to narrow stairs

Free entry for carers

Mobility scooters available on request

🍽️ Food and Drink Nearby

Onsite:

New Armouries Café – Sandwiches, pastries, drinks

Ravens Café – Light refreshments and snacks

Nearby:

Coppa Club – Iconic dining domes along the Thames

Wagamama – Quick and tasty Asian dishes

The Hung, Drawn & Quartered Pub – Traditional pub with a fitting name!

📌 Nearby Attractions

Tower Bridge – Walk across or tour inside for panoramic London views

Sky Garden – Free viewpoint across London, 10 mins away

Borough Market – Foodie paradise

The Shard – Western Europe’s tallest building

HMS Belfast – A floating WWII museum on the Thames

📚 Fun Facts About the Tower of London

Over 22 executions took place on Tower Green

Ravens have a dedicated Ravenmaster

The Tower once held a zoo with lions and polar bears!

Guy Fawkes was tortured here after the Gunpowder Plot

Home of the Constable of the Tower, a title given since the 11th century

🧳 Why You Should Visit the Tower of London

The Tower of London is not just a historical site—it's a living, breathing chapter of British history. Whether you’re captivated by royal jewels, medieval fortresses, or dark prison tales, this landmark offers a deeply immersive journey through time.

It’s a must-visit for history lovers, families, photographers, and anyone curious about Britain’s royal legacy. Step inside the Tower walls, and you’ll never look at London the same way again.