What is the Tower of London and why is it so popular?
The Tower of London has served many purposes since it was founded in 1078 by William the Conqueror. It has been a royal palace, fortress, armoury, treasury, and prison. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions each year keen to explore its historical significance. Many come to see the Crown Jewels — a collection of over 23,000 gemstones including the Imperial State Crown — and to join the Yeoman Warder tours, where costumed guides share gripping stories of betrayal, imprisonment, and executions. The White Tower, which houses the Line of Kings exhibition, reveals the evolution of royal armoury. Adding to the visit are the famous Tower Ravens, said to protect the kingdom.
Best time to visit the Tower of London
To enjoy a quieter visit and avoid the peak crowds, plan to arrive early on a weekday. The Tower opens at 09:00 from Monday to Friday, with slightly later times on weekends and bank holidays. The summer months from June to August are the busiest, so getting there for opening time helps beat queues. Visiting midweek outside school holidays offers the calmest experience. Note that on 6 May 2025, the Tower will close early at 16:30 with last entry at 15:30, and the White Tower will close at 14:30. Travelling in the early hours not only avoids crowds but also lets you enjoy softer natural light for photographs.
How to get to the Tower of London
The Tower of London is easily reached on public transport. Tower Hill Underground station, served by the Circle and District lines, lies just a five-minute walk away. Guests staying at The Tower Hotel by Thistle will find it a short stroll along Tower Bridge Road, leading straight to the fortress gates. For a scenic arrival, consider a riverboat to Tower Pier with Thames Clippers. Cyclists are welcome, with secure bike racks near the main entrance. If arriving from other parts of London, the excellent network of buses and the Tube will connect smoothly. The hotel’s proximity means you can return easily for a rest or to dine after exploring the Tower.
Top things to see inside the Tower of London
There’s plenty to discover beyond the Castle’s walls and battlements. The Crown Jewels are a highlight — expect to spend time admiring the glittering regalia in the Jewel House. The White Tower reveals medieval armaments and royal artifacts, including suits of armour that once belonged to monarchs. Take a guided Yeoman Warder tour, included with admission, for an entertaining and detailed narration of the Tower’s gruesome and fascinating past. The medieval palace interiors showcase the lavish side of royal life. Don’t miss the resident ravens, whose presence is tied to ancient superstition. Guided or self-guided tours are easy to combine depending on your preference.
Tower of London tours and ticket tips
Tickets can be purchased online in advance to secure preferred entry times, helping reduce queuing. Admission for adults is £35.80, with concessions for children aged 5-15. Members of Historic Royal Palaces enter free. Consider joining a Yeoman Warder tour for a narrated walk that brings history to life; these start hourly throughout the day and are included in ticket prices. Audio guides offer another option for self-paced exploration at £5 per device and provide extra detail. Family-friendly tours are available, making the experience accessible and engaging for all ages.
To maximise time, start with the Crown Jewels before heading to the White Tower and other exhibitions. Booking ahead online at the official Historic Royal Palaces website ensures smooth entry and allows selection of preferred time slots.
Places to eat near the Tower of London
Whether needing a hearty breakfast or a quick bite, several spots lie within easy reach. The New Armouries Café, located inside the Tower grounds near the Medieval Palace, serves hot meals and light snacks. For dining with Thames views, The Perkin Reveller is two minutes’ walk away on Wharf Approach, offering modern British dishes and a riverside atmosphere. A little further, Coppa Club Tower Bridge provides informal dining in its riverside igloo pods — great for groups seeking Mediterranean-inspired small plates. The Minories gastropub, close by, is known for craft beers and classic Sunday roasts. For wider culinary options, Borough Market is a 20-minute walk and a haven for street food lovers.
Why stay at The Tower Hotel by Thistle when visiting the Tower of London?
The Tower Hotel by Thistle offers more than convenient lodging; it places guests within a few minutes’ walk of the Tower of London and Tower Hill Tube station. Rooms with views over the Thames and Tower Bridge transform your stay into something special. Families benefit from spacious rooms, while couples and solo travellers appreciate the ease of stepping outside to historic sites. After a day wandering the Tower’s ancient walls, the hotel’s dining options offer a relaxed setting to soak up riverside scenes and plan the next day’s London itinerary. Its position at St Katharine’s Way also provides swift access to other historic sites like HMS Belfast and the marina at St Katharine Docks.