You've Heard the Legends, Now See the Scaffolding: A Guide to Visiting the Tower of London
So you're thinking of visiting the Tower of London? Excellent choice! This historic fortress has been everything from a royal palace to a prison (with a healthy dose of beheadings in between). It's a place that's seen more drama than a Shakespeare play with a particularly disgruntled cast. But before you pack your head off (metaphorically speaking, of course), here's a guide to help you navigate this historic monument without getting locked in the Bloody Tower yourself (although, that would make a killer story for your grandkids).
Getting There: Avoiding the Royal Rage
First things first, you need to get there. The Tower of London sits on the north bank of the River Thames, right in the heart of London. For history buffs on a budget, consider a scenic Thames River Cruise. You'll get a grand entrance (and avoid the wrath of Henry VIII's ghost stuck in rush hour traffic).
If you're more of a landlubber, the Tube is your best bet. Tower Hill Station is practically in the Tower's shadow (though hopefully not a literal shadow, those things can be creepy).
Top Tip: Be warned, the Tower can get packed, especially during peak season. Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Beheadings, Bling, and Everything In Between: What to See
The Tower has enough history to fill a library (though, with all those executions, maybe not the most cheerful one). Here are a few highlights:
- The Crown Jewels: These sparkly treasures are the real rock stars of the Tower. Gawk at crowns, scepters, and enough diamonds to blind a dragon (hopefully not the Tower's resident ravens).
- The White Tower: This hulking giant is the oldest part of the castle. Climb to the top for epic views (and pretend you're a medieval lookout screaming about marauding Vikings... or tourists, whatever floats your boat).
- Yeoman Warder Tours: These Beefeaters (their official title, though they probably wouldn't mind a good beefeater joke) are fountains of knowledge and will regale you with tales of the Tower's bloody past.
Keeping Your Head On: Essential Tips
- Book your tickets online: This saves you precious time waiting in line, especially important if you're worried about Anne Boleyn's ghost getting impatient.
- Download the audio guide: These are great for learning more about the Tower at your own pace. Just don't blame us if you start yelling "Off with their heads!" at random pigeons.
- Beware the ravens: These legendary birds are considered guardians of the Tower. Just don't anger them, or you might end up another ghost in the Tower's long and storied history.
How to Slay Your Tower of London Trip FAQs:
1. How to get tickets? Tickets can be purchased online at Historic Royal Palaces website or at the ticket office on the day (but be prepared to wait in line).2. How much does it cost? Tickets vary depending on age and group size, but expect to pay around £35 for an adult ticket.3. How long does it take to visit? Plan for 2-3 hours to see everything comfortably.4. Is there food available? Yes, there are cafes and restaurants within the Tower grounds.5. Is it accessible? Absolutely! The Tower offers a variety of accessibility features, including ramps and lifts. Check their website for more details Historic Royal Palaces website.
So there you have it! With this guide, you're all set to conquer the Tower of London. Just remember, keep your head down (figuratively speaking), and you'll have a royally good time!
