Tower of London: Is the Fortress Worth Visiting?

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Tower of London: Is the Fortress Worth Visiting?

Published on 22 February 2025 Last updated on 8 September 2026

The Tower of London is one of the most famous attractions in London. The centuries-old fortress on the River Thames has a long and fascinating history and is particularly famous for the British Crown Jewels. For many visitors, the Tower is therefore high on the list during their first city trip to London.

But is a visit to the Tower of London really worth it? In this article, I share my experience and tell you what to expect during a visit. You will also find more information about the attractions, tickets, and other practical matters. This way, you can decide for yourself whether a visit to the Tower of London fits into your city trip to London.

What is the Tower of London?

The construction of the Tower of London began in 1078, commissioned by William the Conqueror. After his conquest of England, he had a large stone fortress built along the River Thames. Over the following centuries, the Tower grew into an extensive complex with various functions.

The Tower of London served as a royal palace, fortress, and prison. People who were considered a threat to the king or the country were imprisoned there. Some prisoners were also tortured or executed. As a result, the Tower gained a notorious reputation over the centuries.

The last prisoners did not leave the Tower immediately after the Middle Ages. Prisoners continued to be held there in later centuries as well. During the Second World War, for example, German prisoners of war were imprisoned there.

Today, the Tower has a very different function. The historic complex is an important attraction in London and is best known for the British Crown Jewels. However, there is much more to see during a visit than just the Crown Jewels. The different towers, buildings, and stories show just how important the Tower has been throughout the centuries.

Is a Visit to the Tower of London Worth It? My Experience

I have been visiting London several times a year for more than fifteen years and have visited the Tower of London several times during that period. Personally, I think the Tower is one of the most impressive historical attractions in London. What I find particularly interesting is that you are not just visiting an old fortress here. It is a large historic complex where you can see traces of England’s history in many different places.

The British Crown Jewels are, of course, one of the best-known reasons to visit the Tower. But the centuries-old armour, the old towers, and the stories about prisoners and executions also add much more to the experience. And then, of course, there are the ravens, which have been associated with the Tower for centuries.

Another part that I personally really enjoy is the guided tours by the Yeoman Warders, better known as the Beefeaters. These tours are included with a standard ticket. The stories are told in an accessible way and include not only historical information but also plenty of humour. This brings the history of the Tower to life much more than simply looking at the buildings and exhibitions.

A visit to the Tower of London takes quite a bit of time, and the admission price is higher than that of some other attractions in London. On the other hand, you can easily spend three to four hours here. In my opinion, the Tower is definitely worth visiting if you are interested in history and unique places. If history is not really your thing, there are other attractions in London that may suit you better.

What Is There to See at the Tower of London?

During your visit to the Tower of London, you can explore different parts of the historic complex. There is a lot to see, and you can easily spend several hours here. If you are visiting the Tower for the first time, there are, in my opinion, a number of parts that you should definitely see.

1. The crown jewels in the Tower of London

The Crown Jewels in the Jewel House are the highlight of a visit to the Tower of London for many visitors. The collection consists of more than 100 objects and over 23,000 gemstones. Among other things, you can see crowns, sceptres, and other objects that are still used during important royal ceremonies. The Crown Jewels have been kept and displayed at the Tower of London since 1661.

One of the best-known pieces is the Koh-i-Noor, a 105.6-carat diamond with a long and turbulent history. The diamond has been set in the crown of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother since 1937. The crown is still part of the Crown Jewels collection that you can view at the Tower.

In addition to the Koh-i-Noor, there are many other remarkable pieces to see, including the Imperial State Crown and St Edward’s Crown. The exhibition not only showcases the wealth of the collection but also explains how the Crown Jewels have been used throughout the centuries and the role they play in the British monarchy.

For me, the Crown Jewels are one of the parts of the Tower of London that you definitely should not skip during your first visit.

2. White Tower

The White Tower is the oldest surviving part of the Tower of London. Construction was commissioned by William the Conqueror and took place from around 1078 to 1100. With its thick walls and imposing appearance, the tower was intended to demonstrate the power of the Norman king and protect London.

Inside the White Tower, you will find, among other things, the historic collection of the Royal Armouries. Here, you can view impressive suits of armour and weapons, including royal armour belonging to Henry VIII, among others. The Chapel of St John the Evangelist is also located in the White Tower. This remarkable chapel dates back to the eleventh century and is one of the best-preserved examples of early Norman ecclesiastical architecture in England.

During your visit, you can also learn more about the different functions the White Tower has had throughout the centuries. There are also objects that recall the darker side of the Tower’s past, including a torture device. The larger exhibition about torture in the Tower is now located in the Lower Wakefield Tower.

3. The Bloody Tower

The Bloody Tower is one of the best-known towers at the Tower of London and has a dark history. The tower was originally built as part of the defensive fortifications and later became particularly well known because of the prisoners who were held here.

One of the best-known stories is that of the two young princes, Edward V and Richard of Shrewsbury. They were brought to the Tower in 1483 and then disappeared without a trace. Exactly what happened to them has never been established with certainty. Their disappearance is one of the most mysterious stories in the history of the Tower of London.

Inside the Bloody Tower, you can learn more about this history and the people who were imprisoned here. It is mainly the combination of the dark rooms and the stories that makes this place so fascinating.

4. Beauchamp Tower

The Beauchamp Tower is one of the towers where prisoners were held at the Tower of London. The tower is particularly interesting because of the many inscriptions and carvings that prisoners left behind in the walls.

Some prisoners carved their names, initials, or other texts into the stone walls. Some of these inscriptions are still clearly visible today. They provide a personal glimpse into the people who were imprisoned here and suddenly make the history of the Tower feel very tangible.

During your visit, it is worth taking some time to look around here. The carvings may be less impressive than the Crown Jewels or the larger towers, but it is precisely the personal stories behind them that make the Beauchamp Tower special.

5. The Ravens of the Tower of London

The ravens of the Tower of London may well be the most unusual residents of the historic fortress. According to an old legend, the kingdom will fall if the ravens leave the Tower. That is why at least six ravens are always kept at the Tower. There are usually additional ravens as a precaution.

The ravens are cared for by the Ravenmaster, who is responsible for their daily care. The birds have their own enclosure on the grounds and can walk around in different areas during the day. This means you may simply come across them during your visit.

The ravens have become such an important part of the Tower of London that they are now almost as recognisable as the Crown Jewels and the Beefeaters. For me, they are therefore an essential part of a visit to the Tower. If you see one, it is definitely worth stopping for a moment to watch.

6. Beefeaters from the Tower of London

In addition to the ravens, the Beefeaters, officially known as Yeoman Warders, are also a well-known part of the Tower of London. The Yeoman Warders have been associated with the Tower for centuries and previously had various duties within the royal fortress. Among other things, they supervised the prisoners and guarded important parts of the complex.

Today, the Yeoman Warders mainly have a ceremonial and educational role. They welcome visitors and give guided tours in which they talk about the history of the Tower. The tours are included with your admission ticket and take place at various times throughout the day.

Personally, I think these tours are one of the best parts of a visit to the Tower of London. The Yeoman Warders not only share historical facts but also tell stories and anecdotes that give you a better idea of what life was like in the Tower throughout the centuries. You can also come across the Yeoman Warders outside the tours and sometimes ask them a question.

Tickets for the Tower of London

The Tower of London is a popular attraction in London. Especially if you are visiting the city for the first time, it is a good idea to plan your visit in advance. With a ticket, you get access to the historic complex and can see the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, and the other attractions.

I recommend arranging your ticket online in advance. This way, you know you have access on the day you want to visit the Tower and can fit your visit into your itinerary more easily.

Below, you can view the available tickets. Choose your preferred date and see which options are available.

How Long Does a Visit to the Tower of London Take?

For a visit to the Tower of London, I would allow around three to four hours. This gives you enough time to see the main parts of the complex, visit the Crown Jewels, and join a tour with a Yeoman Warder.

If you have less time, you can also see the main highlights in around two to two and a half hours. However, you will have to make some choices and have less time to walk around the different parts of the Tower at a relaxed pace.

If you really want to explore the Tower properly, four hours or even a little longer is certainly not excessive. The complex is larger than you might expect from the outside. On busy days, it can also take longer to get into popular areas such as the Crown Jewels.

My advice is therefore not to allow too little time for the Tower of London during your city trip. In my experience, three to four hours is enough time to see the main attractions without constantly having to watch the clock.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Tower of London?

If you want to visit the Tower of London when it is as quiet as possible, I would go early in the day. Popular areas such as the Crown Jewels can become busier later in the day. By arriving around opening time, you also have more time to explore the complex at your own pace.

The day you visit can also make a difference. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends. During school holidays and public holidays, it can be busier, as the Tower attracts many visitors from the UK and abroad.

In terms of the season, the winter months are usually quieter than summer. However, it gets dark early in London during winter, and the weather can be less predictable. Spring and autumn are therefore pleasant periods for many visitors to visit the Tower. You will often have a good combination of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds than during the peak season.

My advice is to choose a weekday morning outside the school holidays if this fits your itinerary. This gives you the best chance of exploring the Tower without too many crowds. Keep in mind, however, that visitor numbers can vary from day to day and there is no time when you can be certain there will be no queues anywhere.

What Are the Opening Hours of the Tower of London?

The opening hours of the Tower of London vary by season. During the summer months, the Tower is open longer than in winter. Also keep in mind that the last admission is one hour before closing time.

Summer season: 1 March to 31 October

From Tuesday to Saturday, the Tower is open from 09:00 to 17:30. On Sundays and Mondays, you can visit the Tower from 10:00 to 17:30. Last admission is at 16:30.

Winter season: 1 November to 28 February

From Tuesday to Saturday, the Tower is open from 09:00 to 16:30. On Sundays and Mondays, the opening hours are from 10:00 to 16:30. Last admission is at 15:30.

The Tower of London is closed on 24, 25, and 26 December and on 1 January.

My advice is not to plan your visit too late in the day. The Tower is a large complex and there is a lot to see. If you also want to see the Crown Jewels and join a tour with a Yeoman Warder, you need enough time. Always check the current opening hours before your visit, as they may change.

Where is the Tower of London located?

The Tower of London is located on the north bank of the River Thames, right next to Tower Bridge. From the Tower, you have views of the river and the famous bridge. Thanks to its central location, the Tower is also easy to combine with other attractions in this part of London.

How Do You Get to the Tower of London?

The Tower of London is easily accessible by public transport. From many parts of London, the Underground is the easiest way to get to the Tower. The nearest Underground station is Tower Hill. From this station, it is only a few minutes’ walk to the entrance of the Tower of London.

You can also easily reach the Tower on foot if you are already in central London. Personally, I usually stay in the city centre. A hotel there is often a little more expensive, but you save time and travel costs this way. In addition, you can visit many attractions on foot. I personally think this is one of the nicest ways to explore London.

A pleasant walk to the Tower of London starts at London Bridge. From London Bridge Station, walk towards the River Thames and then follow The Queen’s Walk along the river. Along the way, you will pass places such as HMS Belfast and City Hall. Cross the Thames via Tower Bridge. On the other side of the bridge, you are almost immediately at the Tower of London.

From London Bridge, it takes around 15 to 20 minutes to walk, depending on your pace and exactly where you are starting from.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

Based on my visits to the Tower of London, I have a few more practical tips for you.

Buy your tickets online in advance: The queues at the ticket office can be extremely long. In addition, online tickets are often cheaper than tickets purchased at the entrance. I always arrange my ticket in advance.

Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before opening: If the Tower opens at 09:00, I make sure I am at the entrance around 08:40. You will already be there before the doors open and have a good chance of getting ahead of the biggest crowds. Groups arriving by coach can especially cause additional crowds later in the day.

Go straight to the Crown Jewels: This may well be my most important tip. As soon as you enter, head straight to the Jewel House. The Crown Jewels are one of the most popular parts of the Tower, and later in the day there can be a long queue. During my visits, I have experienced that in the afternoon you can easily wait an hour or more, while early in the morning you can often walk straight in.

Join a Yeoman Warder tour: If you have the opportunity, I would definitely join a tour with a Yeoman Warder, better known as a Beefeater. The tours start at the main entrance and are included with your admission ticket. They last around an hour and are, in my opinion, one of the best parts of a visit. The Yeoman Warders tell the history of the Tower in an engaging way, with plenty of humour and fascinating stories.

Bring your own water and snacks: There are cafés and other places on the grounds where you can get something to eat or drink. However, prices are quite high. I therefore always bring a bottle of water and a small snack with me. Not only is this cheaper, but it is also convenient if you want something to eat or drink during your visit without having to queue first.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Tower of London

Is the Tower of London accessible for people with disabilities or pushchairs?

Accessibility at the Tower of London is limited. The historic complex has uneven paving, narrow passages, stairs, and other obstacles that are typical of a medieval fortress. Some parts of the grounds and several buildings are accessible to visitors using a wheelchair or with limited mobility. However, the options vary depending on the building. It can therefore also be difficult to visit all parts of the Tower with a pushchair.

Are you allowed to take photos at the Tower of London?

In many areas in and around the Tower of London, you are allowed to take photos for personal use. However, there are exceptions. Restrictions apply in some rooms due to security reasons or the nature of the exhibition. Always follow the instructions given on site.

Is the Tower of London fun for children?

Yes, the Tower of London can also be an enjoyable experience for children. The fortress captures the imagination with its combination of knights, royal history, the Crown Jewels, ravens, and exciting stories. Whether children enjoy the visit naturally depends on their age and interests. For young children, however, a visit lasting several hours can be quite long.

Is there a cloakroom or luggage storage at the Tower of London?

It is best not to bring large luggage to the Tower of London. Due to security checks, large bags and suitcases can cause problems, and there is no option to leave all types of luggage on the grounds. If you are travelling with large luggage, arrange luggage storage in London in advance.

More Travel Tips for a City Trip to London

Are you planning your trip to London? Below you will find more articles with useful tips and practical information for your trip.

Daily schedule for 4 days London

City trip to London: Is London a nice city?

Attractions in London: Tips and Practical Information

These are the most popular tickets and tours for a city trip to London

Hi, I’m Edward, a passionate city break enthusiast with over 15 years of travel experience. During that time, I’ve explored dozens of cities across Europe and the United States. On Cities To Travel, I share my firsthand experiences and practical travel tips to help you plan the perfect city break—from must-see attractions and day-by-day itineraries to hotel recommendations and transportation advice for every destination.

Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.