Tower of London Tour

Explore with a local expert, whose engaging storytelling brings history to life
From US$269 for 1 person
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Tour Details
Duration
3 hours
Product Type
Tour
Venues
Tower of London
Photos & Highlights
  • An experience tailored for history aficionados, combining expert insights and immersive storytelling with unforgettable experiences that deepen your understanding of history.
  • Opt for a private tour, creating a personalized experience just for you and your friends, or join a small group tour with a no more than 10 fellow travelers.
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Tour Description
Embark on an extraordinary adventure at the Tower of London, not just as tourists but as curious travelers delving into the heart of British history. Hosted by a local guide, an expert in weaving history into captivating narratives, you'll unravel the Tower's centuries-old mysteries. 

From royal sagas to darker episodes, each tale will captivate you, bringing history to life in a way that's both engaging and enlightening. This journey isn't just about observing; it's about immersing yourself in the legacy of kings, queens, and intriguing tales. It's an experience that goes beyond the ordinary walking tour, making your visit to the Tower an unforgettable chapter in your own experience of London. 

Your Itinerary Details: 

Our three-hour tour, led by an experienced historian, will offer you deep insights into the Tower's varied roles throughout its nearly millennium-long history. You'll explore its beginnings as a strategic stronghold, its time as a notorious prison, and the stories behind its most famous inmates.

Your adventure begins outside the Tower, where you'll delve into its earliest structure, established by William the Conqueror in the 1070s. As you walk through, you'll learn about its evolution from a fortress to a royal residence, and discuss the significance of its execution sites and famous prisoners. You'll also encounter the Yeoman Warders and the Tower's legendary ravens, and understand the importance of the Crown Jewels.

Depending on your group’s interests, the tour can include a visit to the White Tower to marvel at the Norman architecture or venture towards other areas, where you can see prisoner graffiti and learn about the mysterious tales of the Bloody Tower. 
You're seeking to:
  • Dive Deep into London's Past: Ideal for history buffs, this tour takes you on a captivating journey through time at one of the city's most iconic historical sites.
  • Uncover Medieval Life and Customs: Delve into the Tower's rich history as a royal residence and prison, exploring medieval customs and tales.
  • Enhance Your Historical Knowledge: Perfect for adults eager to deepen their understanding of historical events and figures associated with the Tower.
  • Create Lasting Memories: Enjoy a unique and educational experience that combines fun and history, leaving you with unforgettable stories to share.
For families with children 13 and under, we suggest our Tower of London Tour for Kids, designed to engage young minds and offer a shorter walking route.
Tower of London – Known for its history as a fortress and prison, the Tower also housed a royal mint for over 500 years. From the late 13th century until 1810, coins were struck here, making it the center of England's monetary production. This unique aspect of the Tower's history showcases its integral role in the economic and administrative life of the nation, beyond its more familiar functions.
General Information
  • While we can't guide you in certain areas like the White Tower, Jewel House, and Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula due to venue rules, these parts of the Tower are still open for you to explore independently. 
  • Your Context guide will provide all the essential information to ensure you fully appreciate these sections.
Admission Tickets
  • Includes skip-the-line access tickets to the Tower of London
  • Our skip-the-line tickets will get us to a special lane where our group may have to stand in line due to security and crowd control measures.
Meeting Point
  • Your tour begins near the entrance, at a location specified in your confirmation email, which includes a map for easy reference. It concludes within the Tower grounds.
Additional Trip-Planning Resources
  • For more information on planning your tour, take a read through our Context Stories. 
  • If you are looking to learn more about London prior to a visit, check out our online lectures and audio guides. 
Approximate Distance
  • Expect a moderate amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended. 
  • There will be opportunities to rest as needed.
  • Please communicate your needs with your guide throughout the tour.
Facilities and Concessions
  • There is a lift in the White Tower that assists with access to and from the basement, though only one wheelchair user is allowed in the basement at a time for safety reasons.
  • Ramps are available at the New Armouries café and near the Raven shop. 
  • Accessible restrooms are available at various locations within the Tower​​ complex.
Transportation and Parking
  • The nearby Tower Hill (Underground), London Bridge (Overground), and Tower Gateway (DLR) stations are equipped with lifts to street level. 
  • Blue Badge parking bays are available nearby at Tower Hill Coach and Car Park​​​​.
Service Dogs
  • Permitted at the Tower. Please inform our team ahead of time so that we can coordinate with Tower offices.
For more information about Context Tours, please visit our FAQs.

When is the best time to visit the Tower of London?
Mornings are generally less crowded, which enhances your overall experience. With fewer people, you get better access to exhibits, less waiting time, and a more intimate setting to appreciate the historical significance of the Tower of London. And during warmer months, mornings are cooler and more comfortable for walking tours. 

Will we get to talk to the Beefeaters on this tour?
During the tour, you will likely see Beefeaters, also known as Yeoman Warders, performing their duties. While direct interaction with them is not a standard part of our tour, observing them in their traditional roles adds a unique and authentic aspect to the experience. 

What happens if it rains during our tour?
Our tours are designed to go ahead, rain or shine. English weather is known for its unpredictability, so we recommend coming prepared for all conditions. Please bring layers to adjust to changing temperatures and comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Where You'll Start
546 Reviews (4.84)

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.

Sarah was engaging and knowledgeable. Great experience.
Super knowledgeable and personable
Our guide Harry read the room perfectly. Our group of nine was a mixed bag of ages, attention span, physical ability and interest in history. Harry managed to find the sweet spot and every one of us enjoyed this tour.

See the Tower of London with Context

Get to know one of the historians leading this tour

Meet Tim

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