The Tower of London is located on the bank of the River Thames. It is one of the most impressive landmarks in London. The walls of the Tower have been a mute spectator to many cruel executions of some of the renowned Kings and Queens of the British monarchy. Some of the renowned personalities to be executed include William Hastings, Anne Boleyn, Margaret Pole, Catherin Howard, Jane Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey and Robert Deveraux. The Tower of London has been a symbol of British Royalty.
The construction of this Tower was started by William of Normandy after he won the battle of Hastings to become William the Conqueror, now King William I of England. He laid down the first stones of this tower in 1078. This fort was a 'symbol of his power' and a prison 'for his enemies'. He named it the Tower of London. The tower has been modified by many monarchs over the ages. It also housed the Royal Residence, until Oliver Cromwell demolished it.
The Crown Jewels is a section inside this historical tower, showcasing the priceless jewels of the Royal Pageantry and also some films containing rare footage of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation. The Imperial State Crown and the Cullinan I diamond are exhibited here.
The White Tower contains an impressive display of the royal armors which were worn and used by Henry VIII and Charles I. Besides the White Tower, the other towers located in the precincts of this historical monument are the Bloody Tower, the Bell Tower and the Beauchamp Tower. A Royal menagerie increases the attraction of the Tower.
There are different means of transportation to reach Tower of London. This London attraction can be reached by buses, riverboats, British rail or underground rail. The 'Tower Hill' underground rail is closest to the site. The tourist buses also cover this attraction in their itinerary.
To explore and reach the top of this historical tower, it takes at least 2-3 hours. Some necessary information related to a visit to the Tower of England is provided below:
- From 1st November to 28th February, London Tower remains open from 09:00 hours to 16:00 hours from Tuesday to Saturday and on Mondays and Sundays it remains open from 10:00 hours to 16:00 hours.
- From 1st March to 31st October, it is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 hours to 17:00 hours and on Mondays and Sundays from 10:00 hrs to 17:00 hours.
- The Tower of London remains closed from 24th to 26th December.
- Entry to this historic site is covered by the London Travel Pass. The Pass holders can also avail up to 20% discount at the New Armouries Café.
- Tickets to the Tower of London usually cost 16 pounds for adults and 9.5 pounds for children. Separate tickets may have to be bought during special occasions, and the prices of these tickets may vary from event to event.
