THE TOWER OF LONDON HISTORY
The Tower of London
The Tower of London was built in 1078 by William the Conqueror. It is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in London. Originally constructed as a symbol of Norman power, it served as a royal palace, though it was also used as an armory, treasury, prison, and home to the Crown Jewels. Expanded by several monarchs, including Richard I, Henry III, and Edward I, most of its medieval structure from the 13th century remains today.
Today, the Tower is one of London’s most popular tourist attractions, housing the Crown Jewels and serving as a lasting symbol of British heritage, guarded by the famous Yeoman Warders or Beefeaters.
William the Conqueror
In the 1070s, after conquering England, William the Conqueror ordered the building of a stone fortress in London to show his power and secure his rule. It was the first stone castle in England, and it took around 20 years to finish. It was built by English workers using stone from France. The White Tower became the central part of the Tower of London, serving as a fortress, royal home, and later as a prison and treasury.
The Fortress
The Tower of London was first established as a fortress with thick stone walls and strong defenses. It served as a fortress for over 500 years. It was an important military base in medieval times and was strengthened over the years to protect against attacks. Its location by the River Thames helped defend London from enemies. As the safest castle in the land, it protected royal treasures and sometimes the royal family during wars and uprisings.
In the 17th century, the Tower of London remained a key royal fortress and prison while also housing the Crown Jewels and serving as a secure storage site for weapons. During this time, it survived significant events, such as the Great Fire of London in 1666 and an attempted theft of the Crown Jewels by Captain Blood in 1671.
The Palace
The Tower of London was mainly used as a royal palace from the 11th century to the 16th century. It was an important home for kings and queens during the medieval period, but by the time of Henry VIII in the 1500s, newer palaces became more popular. By the late 1500s, the Tower was rarely used as a royal residence and instead became more known as a prison, treasury, and armory.
The Prison
The Tower of London became well known as a prison starting in the 12th century. It held important people like political enemies, nobles, and even royal family members. Many prisoners stayed there before their trial or execution. Famous prisoners included Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth I, and Guy Fawkes. Some prisoners had comfortable conditions, depending on their rank. The Tower was used as a prison until the 20th century.
The Crown Jewels
The Tower of London holds the world’s most famous jewel collection, with over 100 items and 23,000 gemstones. At the center of this collection is the English Coronation Regalia, used in crowning ceremonies. Some of the most famous pieces include the Black Prince’s Ruby, the Koh-i-Noor diamond – one of the world’s most famous diamonds, and the Sovereign’s Sceptre. The Crown Jewels are still used for royal ceremonies but are also displayed under tight security at the Tower for public viewing.
The Beefeaters
The Beefeaters, officially known as the Yeoman Warders, are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London. Established in 1485, they traditionally served as protectors of the Tower and its prisoners. Originally part of the monarch’s personal bodyguard, Henry VIII decided in the 1500s that some would stay to guard the Tower permanently.
Today, they are best known for their role as tour guides and protectors of the Crown Jewels. Dressed in distinctive uniforms, the Beefeaters symbolize British history and tradition.
Want to learn more about the Tower of London and its history?
Book a guided tour of the Tower of London, or buy a skip-the-line ticket!
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 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.
The Armory
The Tower of London once housed a large armory, storing weapons and armor for the monarchy. Known as the Royal Armouries, it provided equipment for the king’s armies and protected the kingdom.
The armory displayed collections of swords, guns, shields, and suits of armor, some made for kings like Henry VIII. It also included advanced weapons of its time, such as cannons and early firearms. Today, the Royal Armouries Museum preserves and displays many of these historic items for visitors.
The Ravens
The ravens that live at the Tower of London are a famous part of its legend and history. According to tradition, at least six ravens must always live at the Tower, as it is believed that if they leave, both the Tower and the kingdom will fall. The ravens are cared for by a dedicated Yeoman Warder, the Ravenmaster.
These birds are well-fed and have one of their wings slightly trimmed to discourage them from flying too far. The presence of the ravens has become an iconic symbol, adding to the Tower’s mystical atmosphere.
The Royal Mint
The Royal Mint was situated at the Tower of London from the 13th century until 1810, where coins for the kingdom were produced. It played an important role in England’s economy, ensuring the creation of accurate and secure currency. Today, visitors can explore the history of the Mint and its operations through exhibits at the Tower.
The Royal Menagerie
The Tower of London once housed the Royal Menagerie, a collection of exotic animals like lions and elephants, gifted to kings by foreign rulers. For over 600 years, it was London’s first zoo. Due to animal welfare concerns and high costs, the menagerie closed in 1835. Most animals were moved to Regent’s Park, now London Zoo, while others were sold, and the Lion Tower was later demolished.
The Tower of London today
In the 19th century, the Tower of London changed from a military stronghold and prison to a historic site. Renovations were made, and more people started visiting to explore its rich history and the Crown Jewels. Its use as a prison decreased, and it became a symbol of British heritage, attracting many tourists by the end of the century.
Today, the Tower of London is one of the UK’s top tourist spots, with nearly three million visitors last year. It houses the Crown Jewels, offers Beefeater-led tours, and showcases centuries of history. Though no longer a royal residence or prison, it remains a key symbol of British heritage and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover more about the Tower of London by choosing one of our popular tours!
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.
Visit London’s icons
Tower of London and Tower Bridge Tour
Step onto the glass floor of one of London’s most recognizable bridges - the Tower Bridge and explore Victorian engine rooms with a knowledgeable guide. Take in the magical sparkle of the Crown Jewels as you walk through the rooms of the nearly 1000-year-old Tower of London. Book your skip-the-line tickets for the Tower of London and Tower Bridge Tour today!