Tower of London 🇬🇧

The Tower of London, officially known as His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is a historic castle and citadel situated on the northern bank of the River Thames in London, England. Located within the borough of Tower Hamlets adjacent to the open space of Tower Hill, the stronghold was established in late 1066 following the Norman Conquest. Its central stone keep, the White Tower, was commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1078. Spanning nearly 12 acres enclosed by two concentric rings of defensive walls and a moat, the complex reached its lasting structural layout in 1285 following major expansions under Kings Richard I, Henry III, and Edward I.

Throughout its history, the landmark fulfilled numerous roles, operating as a royal residence, an armoury, a treasury, a menagerie, the home of the Royal Mint, a public record office, and the repository for the Crown Jewels of England. From the early 14th century through the reign of Charles II, monarchs traditionally spent the days preceding their coronations at the fortress before processing to Westminster Abbey. It also served as a famous prison, particularly during the 16th and 17th centuries when prominent figures such as the future Queen Elizabeth I, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Elizabeth Throckmorton were held within its walls. Although known for confinement, only seven executions took place inside the castle prior to the 20th century, with most capital punishments occurring on neighboring Tower Hill.

The heart of the castle is the innermost ward, anchored by the White Tower. This massive 11th-century Norman keep stands 27 metres high at its southern battlements and features historical spaces such as St John's Chapel and a storage undercroft in its basement. Surrounding this central section is the inner ward, guarded by a curtain wall studded with 13 individual towers, including the Bell, Bowyer, Lanthorn, Beauchamp, and Bloody Towers. The inner ward also encompasses the Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula and the 17th-century New Armouries building. Enclosing the entire property is the outer ward, complemented by Tower Wharf along the edge of the Thames.

During the late 19th century, administrative institutions vacated the site, allowing architects Anthony Salvin and John Taylor to restore the complex to a medieval aesthetic. Following its use as a prison and execution site during the World Wars, as well as repairs after the Blitz, the castle reopened to visitors and was designated a World Heritage Site. Today, the property is maintained by the charity Historic Royal Palaces under the oversight of the Constable, Resident Governor, and Keeper of the Jewel House, guarded by the Yeomen Warders. It remains one of the country's most prominent tourist destinations, drawing over 2.8 million visitors in 2025.

Tower of London in pictures