So You Want to See the Tower of London, Eh? A Guide for the Curious and Slightly Clueless
The Tower of London. It's steeped in history, crawling with ravens (more on those quirky guys later), and boasts enough bling in the Crown Jewels to make a Kardashian jealous. But for the uninitiated, a visit can be a bit daunting. Fear not, fellow history buff (or selfie enthusiast), this guide will have you navigating the Tower like a Tudor courtier (minus the ruff and tights...hopefully).
Getting There: No Horse Required (Unless You're Really Committed)
In the olden days, getting to the Tower might have involved a carriage or perhaps a very enthusiastic horse. Thankfully, we have options. The Tube (London's subway system) is your best bet, with stations like Tower Hill and London Bridge a short walk away. Buses also crawl the streets of London, and if you're feeling nautical, a Thames River boat ride can drop you off right by the Wharf.
Pro Tip: Parking near the Tower is a nightmare, so ditch the four-wheeled beast and embrace public transport.
Tickets, Tickets, and More Tickets: Don't Be a Queue-Dodging Knave
Now, to that all-important question: how do I get inside? The Tower, like most tourist attractions, requires a ticket. You can buy them online beforehand to avoid the hangry hordes or take your chances at the ticket office. Highly recommend pre-booking, especially during peak season. Trust me, you don't want to be stuck behind Nigel from Nottingham who needs to use the loo right before his tour.
What to See: Beyond Beheadings (But There Were Those Too)
The Tower is a treasure trove of history. You can explore the White Tower, the central castle, which is older than you might think (built in 1070, for those keeping track at home). Don't miss the Crown Jewels. These sparkling gems are enough to make you question your life choices (because seriously, how much treasure does one queen need?). There's also the Bloody Tower (site of some unfortunate royal shuffles), and plenty of fascinating exhibits that delve into the Tower's complex past.
A Word About the Beefeaters: These friendly chaps in their snazzy uniforms are the Yeoman Warders, not Beefeaters (although a good story is a good story). They're a wealth of knowledge and might even regale you with a tale or two (if you catch them on a good day).
Yeoman Warder Tours: Your Ticket to Time Travel (Well, Sort Of)
Speaking of Yeoman Warders, consider taking a Yeoman Warder tour. These guided walks are a fantastic way to learn about the Tower's history and hear some juicy gossip (well, historical gossip) from the horse's mouth (or should we say, the Beefeater's helmet?).
Bonus Tip: The tours fill up fast, so get there early to snag a spot.
Raven About It: A Murder of Feathered Friends
The Tower is famously guarded by a flock of ravens. Legend says that if the ravens leave, the Tower will fall. So, these feathered fellas are basically rock stars with a taste for eyeballs (don't worry, they mostly eat scraps). Keep an eye out for them, but don't try to pet them. They're wild birds and not exactly cuddly.
How to See the Tower of London: FAQ
Q: How much time do I need to see the Tower?
A: Allow at least 3 hours to explore the Tower at a leisurely pace.
Q: Are there any discounts on tickets?
A: Yes, discounts are available for students, seniors, and families. Check the Historic Royal Palaces website for details https://www.hrp.org.uk/.
Q: Is the Tower of London accessible?
A: Yes, the Tower is accessible for wheelchair users. There are also mobility scooters available for hire.
Q: Can I take photos inside the Tower?
A: Yes, you can take photos inside the Tower, but flash photography is not permitted in some areas.
Q: What should I wear to visit the Tower?
A: There's no dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended as there's a fair bit of walking involved.
