TOWER OF LONDON ARCHITECTURE
About the Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of Britain’s most visited historical landmarks. Built on the north bank of the River Thames in London, in the East London Borough of Tower Hamlets, it was constructed in 1078 by William the Conqueror as a fortress to protect the city and the monarchy. Over the centuries, it has served many roles, including a royal palace, prison, mint, treasury, arsenal, public record office, and home to the Crown Jewels. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a symbol of Britain’s rich historical heritage.
Why was the Tower of London built?
In 1066, William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, invaded England and claimed the throne, starting the Norman Conquest. This significantly impacted England’s language, culture, and architecture. To secure his rule, William ordered the construction of the Tower of London, a powerful fortress on the north bank of the Thames, built on the site of an old Roman fort. Construction began in 1078, with the White Tower at its heart, symbolizing Norman dominance. The Tower was a royal residence and a key defensive stronghold for the city.
Want to learn more about the Tower of London?
Join one of our guided tours, or get Tower of London tickets at the best prices!
Skip-the-line
Tower of London Ticket
Discover the thousand-year history of the Tower of London and explore this historic castle, once a fortress, royal home, and famous prison. See the stunning collection of over 23,000 jewels, including the Imperial State Crown. Walk around the grounds, spot the ravens, and visit the site of historic executions. Hear fascinating stories about the tower from the Yeoman Warders and enjoy the beautiful view of London.
Skip-the-Line
Tower of London Beefeater Tour
Skip the line and enter the Tower of London early to see the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive. Join a Beefeater guide to explore the historic Tower and hear stories about the Tower’s history, including tales of royalty, prisoners, and executions. Walk the grounds, spot the ravens, and visit the site where Guy Fawkes was tried. See medieval armor and the Royal Armouries collection. After the tour, continue exploring freely and enjoy the beautiful views of London.
The Tower of London complex
The Tower of London complex is made up of multiple buildings surrounded by two rings of defensive walls and a moat, with different parts added over the centuries. Its architectural design combines Roman, Medieval, Tudor, Victorian, and modern styles. In the 1800s, the Tower underwent a major neo-Gothic renovation. This mix of architectural styles reflects the Tower’s long and evolving history.
The Traitor’s Gate
Traitors’ Gate is an entrance to the Tower of London, historically used to bring prisoners into the fortress by boat. It leads from the Thames River, allowing easy access to the Tower for high-profile captives accused of treason. Famous figures like Anne Boleyn and Sir Thomas More entered through this gate. Today, it remains a symbol of the Tower’s dark history and the fate of those who passed through it.
White Tower
The White Tower is the most iconic part of the Tower of London, but the complex also includes other towers like Tower Green, Bloody Tower, Wakefield Tower, Martin Tower, Salt Tower, and Beauchamp Tower. Built between 1078 and 1100, the White Tower was the heart of the fortress. It is a key example of Norman military architecture, featuring a solid design with large stone blocks, rounded windows, and arches.
As one of Europe’s largest and most well-preserved 11th-century buildings, it had a first-floor entrance with a removable wooden staircase for security. Inside, it housed the first royal observatory, the Chapel of St. John, and displays of armor and weapons. Built from Kentish ragstone and Caen stone, the Tower still reflects much of its original design, although parts have been replaced over time.
The Crown Jewels
The Crown Jewels, one of the most valuable royal collections in the world, have been housed in various locations within the Tower of London for centuries. Today, they are displayed in the Jewel House, completed in 1994 on the restored ground floor of the Waterloo Block. Opened by Queen Elizabeth II, the Jewel House displays the royal jewel collection in the order of items used during the coronation ceremony.
The exhibition, which occupies almost the entire ground floor, is designed to accommodate up to 20,000 visitors daily, who come to see over 100 pieces and more than 23,000 gems like diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. Among the well-known items are the Imperial State Crown, the renowned Koh-i-Noor diamond, and other famous gems and items used in key royal ceremonies like coronations.
Construction material
Most of the original Norman castles were made of wood, but by the end of the 11th century, many, including the Tower of London, were rebuilt with stone. The Tower’s construction used Kentish ragstone, a strong local stone, along with mudstone and imported Caen stone from France for detailed carvings. The royal chambers were decorated with lime, paint, and imitation stone, with the Queen’s chambers adorned with precious stones and ornaments.
Architectural design
The Tower of London was designed to dominate the area and oversee the River Thames. The Tower is built around three “wards” or sections: the innermost ward with the White Tower, the inner ward added by Richard I, and the outer ward completed by Edward I. Although expanded over time, the basic structure has remained unchanged since 1285. The Tower covers around 12 acres, with nearby land under its control for defense purposes. While torture happened occasionally, there was never a permanent torture chamber at the Tower.
Want to learn more about the Tower of London architecture?
Book our best-value Tower of London tickets and tours!
Skip-the-line
Tower of London and London Eye Ticket
Explore London’s history and enjoy the panoramic views of London with this combo deal. Visit the Tower of London to see the precious Crown Jewels, discover the White Tower and Tower Green, and meet the Beefeaters. Enjoy the stunning city views from the Bloody Tower. Then, ride Europe’s tallest observation wheel for 360° views of landmarks like Big Ben and Westminster, relaxing in your capsule on the London Eye.
Priority access
Tower of London Private Tour
Explore one of London’s oldest landmarks with a private guided tour! Your expert guide has your full attention, and they will tell you about the Tower’s 1000-year-old history and how it was a palace, fortress, and even a prison. Feel like a real VIP and book this Tower of London private experience today!