From the Crown Jewels to its infamous ravens, the Tower of London is one of the capital’s most iconic attractions and can be visited either independently or as part of a tour.
(Photo: Historic Royal Palaces / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Dating back to the 1070s when it was built by William the Conqueror during the Norman Conquest, the historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames attracts huge numbers of tourists every year. If you’d like to visit the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are two options: buying general admission tickets and exploring the tower solo, or booking on to an organised guided tour. We’ve compared 5 of the best ticket and tour options below.
Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket
The standard entry ticket for the Tower of London invites visitors to absorb over 1,000 years of history as they explore the ground and enter the legendary tower itself. Inside, there’ll be a chance to see the Crown Jewels of the British Monarchy – said to comprise the largest assemblage of crown jewels in the world. While looking around, the Yeoman Warders, the guardians of the Tower, will provide commentary on the tower’s long history and answer any questions from curious guests. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for ravens overhead, too. From £33 per person.
Tower of London and Crown Jewels Easy Access Tour
(Photo: LetzGo City Tours Britain / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
As with so many London attractions, the tower can get extremely busy. One way of avoiding the crowds is to book on to an easy access fully guided tour, which enables you to skip the long lines at the ticket office with a timed entry ticket. Early mornings are the quietest period if you are willing to skip breakfast for the privilege of seeing the tower and its historic confines in relative seclusion. Once ensconced in the grounds, it’ll be time to walk in the footsteps of those condemned here down the ages with a private guide for company for a full three hours. From £79 per person.
Westminster Abbey, Tower of London and Boat Tour
One of the most economical ways of seeing several London attractions in the same trip is booking a tour package that includes multiple sights. This tour includes a visit to the Tower of London as well as a stop-off at Westminster Abbey, a boat cruise along the River Thames on the local clipper service, and a chance to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. For the Tower of London leg of the tour, which is your last stop, you and your group will get to explore the grounds and inner sanctums with a private guide for company. The day also features some free time during the afternoon to grab lunch (not inclusive) and duck into some shops if you wish. From £87 per person.
Tower of London After Hours Tour and Key Ceremony
(Photo: Walks – UK / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
The Tower of London is an enchanting place at any time of day, but perhaps never more so than after dark. This after-hours tour gives visitors the opportunity to see it once the sun has gone down, creating a special atmosphere that makes the experience all the more memorable. Limited to groups of up to 20, the tour runs for around 95 minutes and include a Yeoman Warder guide who will offer facts and insights and answer any questions put to them along the way. From £140 per person.