tower of london tour tickets

Tourist Information Guide

Tickets for the tower of london, page content.

During your trip to London there's a high chance that you're going to want to visit the Tower of London. Getting tickets for the Tower is relatively easy, and there are a variety of ways in which you can do this This page will provide you with a guide to buying tickets for your trip to the Tower of London: different ways in which you can buy tickets, ticket prices, options for discount on the tickets and contact details for ticket sales.

If you would like to gain a more general overview of what to expect on a trip to the Tower of London (location, contact details, photos, the history of the placer and the activities that are on offer), you can check our General Guide to the Tower of London page .

How to get entrance tickets

There are a variety of choices of ways in which you can get tickets to the Tower of London.

Online: Booking online is the cheapest way to book tickets for the Tower (for more information see below in prices and discounts). You can head to the Official Tower of London Website and click on 'Buy Tickets Online'. You can only buy up to 14 tickets online (if you need to book for more people see below for group bookings).

If you book online you do not have to book for a specific date. However, it is important to remember that your ticket will be valid for seven days from the day that you make the booking. Therefore there is no point in booking months in advance (tickets don't sell out so there's no need to worry about not getting in). For example, if you want to visit on a Saturday do not book any earlier than the Saturday before the date you wish to visit.

At the venue: It is possible to buy tickets on the day that you visit the Tower. However, these tickets are more expensive than if you buy online. Also, the Tower of London is a popular attraction and (particularly on bank holidays and weekends) there can be reasonably long queues for the ticket booths.

The ticket booths sit directly in front of the Tower of London and you will see them as you are heading towards the attraction.

Telephone: If you book your tickets over the telephone there is a booking charge (on top of the standard Individual Rate charges - see below).

Telephone booking charge:  £2.50

Telephone booking lines Opening times:

Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 17:00 Saturday, Sunday and Public Holiday: 09:00 - 14:00

Booking line if you are calling from the UK Tel:  +44 (0) 33 3320 6000

Booking line if you are calling from outside the UK Tel:  +44 (0) 33 3320 6000

Entrance prices

Tickets for the Tower of London are cheapest if you buy them online. The prices are listed below in the table.

Remember that your ticket price includes a free guided tour carried out by one of the Tower's Yeoman Warders (for details of the tour, see our page on Tours at the Tower of London ). It also includes entrance to the White Tower, children's activity trails and entrance to any temporary exhibitions that are taking place at the time of your visit.

The prices quoted here, in relation to tickets bought on the day, include what the Tower describe as a 'Voluntary Donation'. It is your decision as to whether you pay this or not and you are not obliged to include the price on your ticket. Without the donation, the on the day prices are:

Adult:  £33.60 Child:  £16.80 Concessions:  £26.80 Family:  £82.10

If you decide to pay the donation, this money will go towards raising money to restore the middle draw bridge at the Tower.

If you are also interested in going to some of the other historic palaces in London (Kensington Palace, Banqueting House, Hampton Court Palace and Kew Palace), it may be worth considering paying for a membership card. With the card you will be able to gain unlimited free access to the venues, plus other benefits, including discount at the venue restaurants, special membership events, and subscription to the members' magazine. For details of the price of membership, what it entitles you to and how to obtain it, see the Official Tower of London Website membership page .

How to get discount on tickets

If you book tickets online for the Tower of London you can get a discount. This is the obvious way in which you can gain discount to the Tower.

It is also possible to get discount on the Tower of London and surrounding attractions if you have the membership card - see above for more details.

If you are coming to the Tower of London in a group of fifteen or more people you will also be entitled to certain discounts - see above for more details.

Contact details

For contact options for the Tower of London, see our General Guide to the Tower of London . For telephone numbers to book tickets, see the contacts provided above.

The Tower of London gets busy, particularly at weekends and during the summer. To make life easier for yourself (and to save money) it is worth buying your tickets in advance online. Once you have your tickets a trip to the Tower should run smoothly and you'll be pleased by the amount of extras (including the fantastic free Beefeater tour - see above for more details) that are included in the ticket price.

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Complete Tower of London Tour: Opening Ceremony, Early Access Crown Jewels & River Cruise

124 reviews

Why take this tour?

• Enjoy VIP early entry to the Tower of London’s Jewel House to see the Crown Jewels without the usual crowds.
• Be among a small group to witness the Opening Ceremony, one of the oldest military ceremonies in the world, before the Tower officially opens to the public.
• Explore the infamous fortress-turned-prison (and so much more!) on a professionally guided tour of the Tower of London, including visits to the Bloody Tower, torture chamber, execution site, and a walk along the Tower walls.
• See London from the water on a sightseeing river cruise thanks to your included City Cruises flexible one-way ticket.
• Sites Visited
• Tower of London
• Jewel House (first entrance)
• Old execution site on Tower Green
• Bloody Tower
• Torture chamber
• Castle walls
• Opening ceremony
• London from the water (City Cruises sightseeing cruise)
• Tour Includes
• First entrance ticket for Jewel House
• First entrance ticket for Tower of London
• including Opening Ceremony
• Flexible one-way London river cruise pass
• Blue Badge guide

Take an exclusive visit to Britain's most famous castle on this in-depth early access Tower of London tour.

Total customer reviews: 124, latest reviews.

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Tower of London Tour

• Walk in the footsteps of the kings, queens, thieves, traitors, and financiers of London's past with an expert who pulls back the curtain on lesser known stories of the city.
• Engage with deep insights and rich, detailed stories of ambition, betrayal, and power that have shaped British history.

• You want to dive deep into London's past, exploring history through an up close and personal recounting of life at one of the city's most iconic historical sites.
• You’re interested in uncovering medieval life and customs by exploring the Tower's rich history as a royal residence and prison.
• You crave a deeper, more personalized understanding of one of Britain's most iconic landmarks.
• Tower of London
• 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.
• 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.

Additional Trip-Planning Resources

• A light jacket or umbrella in case the London weather decides to shift. 
• All of your most niche and specific questions about the Tower, British history, the monarchy… Nothing is off limits!
• Keep immersing yourself in the city’s history after the tour with a self-paced audio guide . 

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

See the Tower of London with Context

Get to know one of the historians leading this tour.

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Visiting the Tower of London – Tickets, Tours & FAQs

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 28, 2024

Everything you need to know to book your visit to the Tower of London

Our Top Picks: Tower of London Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ VIP AFTER HOURS TOUR AT THE TOWER OF LONDON WITH THE CEREMONY OF THE KEYS ✔️ Exclusive access to the Tower of London after closing ✔️ 1 1/2 hour small group tour with a Yeoman Warder ✔️ Witness the 700 year old Ceremony of the Keys

OPENING CEREMONY OF THE TOWER OF LONDON AND TOUR ✔️ Enjoy access to the Tower and see the official opening ceremony ✔️ Access to the jewel room before the hoards descend! ✔️ Small group Beefeater tour

Listen to our experience at the Ceremony of the Keys

Visiting the Tower of London: Tickets & Tours

Nearest Tube station – Tower Hill (District & Circle Lines)

How long to set aside for your visit? 4 hours +

• Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

Good to know – Entry to the Tower of London is included in the London Pass .

Combi tickets

• Tower of London and Tower Bridge Early-Access Tour
• Full-day London Tour (includes Tower of London, Changing of the Guard, Thames cruise & London Eye

Guided tours

Prefer a guided tour of the Tower of London?

• 3 hour guided tour with early access ticket & exclusive 15/20 minute private tour with a Beefeater – buy ticket .
• 1 1/2 hour guided tour with early access to the Tower of London – avoid the queues with this ticket – also includes small group Beefeater tour
• Small group guided tour with exclusive access to the Opening Ceremony at the Tower of London with early access to the crown jewels and a Thames cruise. Book here.
• Best of London tour which includes the Tower of London, and Changing of the Guard, plus optional cream tea or London Eye upgrade. Book here.
• Walks Tours – London in a Day small group tour – includes the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the Changing of the Guard. Full review of this tour here .

🗝🗝🗝 EXCLUSIVE – WITNESS THE CEREMONY OF THE KEYS 🗝🗝🗝

• VIP Tower of London: After-Hours Tour & Ceremony of the Keys – Get VIP access to the Tower of London on a private after-hours tour with a Yeoman Warder.

Visiting the Tower of London

Brief History

The Tower of London has a long and varied history, having served as a royal palace, a prison, a treasury, a mint, and a zoo, among other things.

The tower was founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror, who built it as a symbol of his power and a means of defence against possible invasions. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, and it now consists of several buildings and structures, including the White Tower, the Royal Chapel of St. John the Evangelist, and the Waterloo Barracks.

Throughout its history, the tower has played a significant role in English royal history. It has served as a royal palace for many monarchs, including Henry III, who extensively renovated the tower in the 13th century. The tower has also been used as a prison, holding notable prisoners like Sir Thomas More, Anne Boleyn, and the Kray twins.

In addition to its royal and prison functions, the tower has also served as a treasury and a mint. It was here that England’s gold and silver coins were produced for hundreds of years. The tower has also been home to the Royal Menagerie, a collection of exotic animals given to the monarchy as gifts from foreign rulers.

Today, the Tower of London is a major tourist attraction and is managed by the Historic Royal Palaces, an independent charity that cares for several of the UK’s historic royal palaces.

Getting to the Tower of London

• Tube:  The closest tube station is Tower Hill (on the Circle and District lines), a 5-minute walk to the Tower of London.
• Overground rail:  Fenchurch Street and London Bridge are located within 10 – 15 mins walking distance of the Tower.
• Uber boat:  Tower Pier
• Sightseeing buses: All major sightseeing buses pass by the Tower of London

Opening hours

The Tower of London is generally open every day except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Opening hours vary between summer and winter seasons and also during school holidays. Check the official website for more information before planning your visit.

When is the best time to visit the Tower of London 

• The Tower of London is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London so expect it to be busy!
• It can be especially crowded on Saturdays and Sundays.
• If possible plan your visit for a weekday.
• Visit as early in the day as you can – be there at opening time or even better still book a tour which allows early access such as this Walks tour . Not only can you observe the opening ceremony but you will also be the first to access the Crown Jewels.

Tip – Queues to see the jewels can exceed 1 – 2 hours later in the day so we highly recommend heading to the Crown Jewels as soon as you enter the Tower of London.

What other London attractions are located near the Tower of London?

• Tower Bridge
• St Dunstans in the East
• HMS Belfast
• Borough Market (head over there for lunch after your visit)
• Shad Thames (hidden gem)
• Leadenhall Market (as seen in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone)
• Monument of the Fire of London (Pudding Lane)
• The Sky Garden
• St Paul’s Cathedral

Tips for planning your visit to the Tower of London

• Plan your visit in advance to avoid long lines. Go early in the day and as soon as you enter head for the Crown Jewels – the later in the day you are the longer the queue will be!
• There is a lot to see once inside the Tower of London so plan to be there for at least 4 hours.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking including up and down flights of stairs.
• Walk the walls for fabulous views of Tower Bridge, the Shard and more!
• Consider booking a small group tour to learn more about the tower’s history. While the free Yeoman warder tour is excellent you may find yourself in a very large group!
• There are strict security measures at the Tower of London including bag searches. Travel light and avoid bringing large bags. Selfie sticks and tripods are also not allowed.
• Check the tower’s website for any scheduled events or closures before you visit.
• The Tower is a medieval building and as such is unfortunately not fully accessible for visitors with mobility issues.
• You can’t take food and drink into the tower. There are a couple of cafes and a kiosk for snacks – the New Armouries Cafe, the Ravens Cafe and the Jewel Kiosk.
• Consider purchasing a combination ticket like this which includes the Tower of London and a Tower Bridge Early-Access Tour ,
• The tower is home to the famous ravens which are considered good luck to the tower and the kingdom. Legend has it that if the 6 resident ravens ever leave the tower the kingdom and tower will fall. There are 9 ravens kept at the tower today – maybe the extra 3 are insurance??
• There are traditional ceremonies held at the Tower of London every day including the opening and closing ceremonies. If you wish to attend these you will need to either book a tour which includes access (eg the Walks tour which includes the opening ceremony ) or here for the Ceremony of the Keys – tickets cost only £5 and are released on the first working day of the month for the following month. Book as soon as they are released as this is extremely popular. I would highly recommend the Walks VIP Ceremony of the Keys experience though!
• Visiting Westminster Abbey
• Visiting the London Eye
• Visiting Windsor Castle
• Visiting Kensington Palace
• Visiting Hampton Court Palace

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The inside story

There are many amazing historical stories and fascinating features of the Tower of London, but one of the most colorful has to be the men you see standing around in the bizarre red costumes. They’re officially named Yeoman Warders, but all of England knows them as ‘Beefeaters’.

Today, these men (and women) offer guided tours and interesting anecdotes about the Tower’s history, but they have a much longer history. Once a royal bodyguard (since 1509), they enjoyed a powerful position and the right to eat as much beef as they wanted from the king's table. Back then, they were known for fighting and drunkenness, and would have killed any unexpected visitor.

The modern Yeoman Warders are not just tour guides, however. Each one of them has served at least 22 years in the armed forces in places such as the Falkland Islands, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. They can answer your questions and are happy to have their photographs taken with you.

Opening hours

1 November-28 February:

• Tuesday-Saturday: 9.00am-4.30pm
• Sunday-Monday: 10.00am-4.30pm
• Last admission is at 4.00pm

1 March-31 October:

• Tuesday-Saturday: 9.00am-5.30pm
• Sunday-Monday: 10.00am-5.30pm
• Last admission is at 5.00pm

About the Tower of London

Only since the Victorian era has the Tower been a tourist attraction. Throughout its earlier history it has been a royal residence, a castle, an armory, a treasury for the Crown Jewels and a notorious prison.

French King William the Conqueror started construction in the eleventh century using stone from Caen in France. Successive kings added more fortifications, accommodation and even a private zoo with lions. One of the most infamous events of this early history came in 1483 when Richard Duke of Gloucester put his two young sons in the tower ‘for their own protection’. Nobody ever saw them again . . . and Richard suddenly became king. Hmm.

During the Tudor period, the tower became a center of torture and imprisonment. This was partly due to Henry VIII’s break from the Catholic Church and the large number of people who didn’t agree with it. Famous prisoners included politician Sir Thomas More and Henry’s own wife Anne Boleyn (whose crime was not to have a male child).

In 1605, the tower welcomed Guy Fawkes, an early terrorist who tried to blow up the Parliament. Nor was he the only traitor. During WWII, spies were also imprisoned and executed here. German Josef Jakobs was the last to be executed in 1941.

Today, there’s a story about the ravens who live at the tower. It’s said that if they ever leave, the Tower and England itself will fall. Be nice to them . . .

The Tower of London, Tower Hill, London, EC3N 4AB

Getting there:

By underground:

• District or Circle lines to Tower Hill station (then five-minute walk)
• The nearest stations are Fenchurch Street or London Bridge (then follow signs)

By bicycle:

• Find cycle racks on the Wharf opposite the Perkin Reveller restaurant and stands (three) next to the shop at the tower. (Do not attach bicycles to railings.)

By Docklands Light Railway (DLR):

• Take to Tower Gateway Station (then follow signs)
• Routes 15, 42, 78, 100, RV1 and sightseeing buses

By riverboat:

• From Charing Cross, Westminster and Greenwich to Tower Pier

How to get there

Tower of London Tours

Tower of London tours offer diverse options to explore its grandeur. From informative guided tours to specialized experiences, visitors can choose from a range of options to discover the rich history, royal treasures, and intriguing legends surrounding this iconic landmark.

View Pricing & Availability on all Tower of London tours:

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Embark on a captivating journey through time and explore the Tower of London, a fortress steeped in history, intrigue, and legend.

Witness the Crown Jewels, marvel at the iconic White Tower, and walk where royalty and revolutionaries once stood. Hear tales of daring escapes, gruesome executions, and royal scandals from expert Beefeater guides.

Witness the Crown Jewels, hear royal tales, and see the legendary Beefeaters. Unlock a world of captivating stories, book your Tower of London tour today!

Quite possibly London's most 'British' Experience. Do not miss out!

Visiting the Tower of London (FAQs + best tickets & tours)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 19, 2024

If you’re planning on visiting the Tower of London, then this article is for you! 

In this post we cover everything you need to know so you can plan the perfect visit, including why you must go, ticket and tour options, frequently asked questions and the passes you can purchase that include entrance to Tower of London.  

If you want to know about opening times for the Tower of London, what there is to see and how to get to the London Tower, stay right here for the full lowdown. 

Tower of London – Tickets & Tours Quick Picks

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Whether as part of a group or on a more independent basis, taking a London Tower tour is a must for just about anyone visiting the capital of England. 

The Tower of London history is a rich, varied and very royal one. Visitors to the Tower can see the crown jewels in all their noble glory, as well as the uniformed guards who protect them. 

You can also explore structures like the Bloody Tower, the Medieval Palace and the Norman style White Tower. 

During your visit you can also explore the Fusilier Museum, enjoy a hands-on armoury experience, see the armour of past Kings and learn lots of Tower of London facts about the tower’s ravens and how the site was used in the past for torture, execution and imprisonment.

Admission to the Tower of London opens the door to a fun-filled day packed with fascinating historical insights. Everything about the place is so quintessentially British that it really would be a crime to miss it off your list.

Visiting the Tower of London FAQs

So what are the Tower of London visiting hours – when can you go? Times actually vary according to the season, so it’s best to check the latest details here . 

At the time of writing, the cost of visiting the Tower of London varies according to when you go, your age and if you’re eligible for any concessions. 

You can buy two types of family ticket to the Tower of London, and kids under five go free. 

Booking the best Tower of London tours allows you to make the most of your day there, so you can spend your time wisely and learn from knowledgeable and enthusiastic history experts. 

A guided tour of the Tower of London costs extra, but this can be from just a few more pounds if you opt for an audio tour . 

Those wondering how to go to the Tower of London have several options, including the London Underground , mainline train and river or uber boat. 

The closest tube station is Tower Hill on the Circle and District lines. It’s also possible to walk from London Bridge station in 10-15 minutes, Liverpool Street in 20 or Charing Cross in 25. 

Transport for London’s journey planner can be accessed here .

Entry to the Tower of London can be quicker and easier during weekdays. Whichever day you go, arrive during the early morning if you can. 

The crowds will generally get smaller after about 3 pm on weekdays, but as the Tower sometimes closes as early as 4.30 pm this would leave you with very little time to see all the sights.  

Historic Royal Palaces, who operate Tower of London tickets and entry, are committed to accessibility. 

The Tower is, however, a historic building containing features like steep staircases, narrow passageways, low doorways and cobblestones. This does limit wheelchair access. 

Outdoor areas are open, and all registered disabled persons may bring a carer free of charge. Proof will be required to obtain this complimentary ticket. 

The most obvious place to see nearby is Tower Bridge. If you can, the walk from here to visit London Bridge is worthwhile – plus it’s free and you can get some fresh air by the river. 

There are some interesting sights to look out for along the way, such as the Shard, the city skyscrapers, Butler’s Wharf, HMS Belfast and St Katharine Docks.

Other London attractions that aren’t too far from the Tower include Borough Market and the Golden Hinde galleon, both of which are near London Bridge station. You could also cross the river to wander around the Tate Modern or to see Shakespeare’s Globe theatre. 

Or head west instead of east from Tower Bridge, looking out for iconic landmarks like the OXO tower, Westminster and the London Eye as you stroll along the riverbank. 

How to visit the Tower of London – Best Tours and Tickets for the Tower of London 

There are various options open to you when it comes to purchasing Tower of London tickets, and each has its plus points. 

Factors to bear in mind include what is included, such as free cancellation, skipping the queue or a guided tour. Also how is the ticket delivered – will it be available as a download on your smartphone or printed on paper? 

These are the main options when you want to buy Tower of London tickets.

You can of course buy tickets from the official Tower of London website. 

You can book your tickets and see what there is to do while you’re there all in one place.

Tickets purchased via the site can only be amended or cancelled six weeks in advance. 

At the time of writing, standard adult ticket prices cost from £28.90 when booked directly.

You can buy tickets via Historic Royal Palaces here .  

Cancellations and amendments are permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you also get to skip the queue when buying via Get Your Guide. 

You may also need to visit the official Tower of London site for further information. 

Standard adult ticket prices also cost from £28.90 when booked via Get Your Guide – but unlike tickets purchased from the official site, these can be cancelled up to a day before if required. 

Due to the flexibility of this ticket – and the fact that you won’t need to wait in line – we recommend buying them, at no extra cost, from Get Your Guide here . 

Guided tours include extras as well as expert guidance. You can witness the opening ceremony,  tour the Tower with a Beefeater, take a two-hour private tour or gain exclusive early entry to the Crown Jewels.  

These options do cost more than a stand-alone entry ticket. 

The cost varies according to the option selected: click the links below for more info. 

• Buy the Tower of London small group Beefeater tour here
• Buy the Tower of London opening ceremony and early access tour here
• Buy the Tower of London two-hour private guided tour here
• Buy the Tower of London opening ceremony, early access and guided tour here ( read our review of this tour )

Multi-venue tours are ideal for those with limited time in London, as you can pack more into a day than you otherwise would. These packages can also be good value for money. 

One day tour even includes visits to Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace as well as the Tower of London, and even includes a cruise on the Thames. 

You’ll have less time to spend at the Tower of London. 

Each tour is priced differently. To find out more, you can click the links below. 

>Buy the Tower of London and Tower Bridge tour here

>Buy the Tower of London and Westminster walking tour here

>Buy the Tower of London, Changing of the Guard and Westminster tour here

>Buy the Tower of London full day London sightseeing tour with river cruise here

You can also buy London Tower admission as part of a multi-ticket such as the London Pass

This is delivered as a smartphone app , and can save money compared to buying separate tickets. You have 60 days to use it and can pick where to visit as you go. 

You’ll have to buy at least 2 credits, and it may end up costing you more if you don’t use them all. 

Prices start at £34 for an adult 2 choice pass, and go up to £118 for a 7 credit pass. 

Find out more about the London pass in our complete review here or the Go City London Explorer here .

We hope these visiting the Tower of London tips, tricks and ticket options have helped you plan your trip. 

The Tower of London is one of those UK sights that you really cannot miss, and for most people, the memories will last a lifetime. Happy travels!

Related reading

• How to purchase London attraction tickets
• Guide to the best London bus tours
• Best day trips and tours from London
• 22 London landmarks to add to your itinerary

How to Get Tower of London Tickets (and Skip the Lines)

Updated May 2, 2024

// By Margherita

What’s the #1 unmissable attraction in London? It’s hard to choose just one, but if you ask me, the Tower of London is definitely up there! This post will guide you on the best ways to get Tower of London tickets, including how to skip the lines!

No time to read it all? Get your Tower of London and Crown Jewels tickets here!

• Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Tickets – skip-the-line tickets here!
• Tower of London Early Access with Beefeaters – beat the crowds and have the Tower to yourself, with fun stories narrated by Beefeaters!
• London: Crown Jewels Tour with River Cruise – BEST-SELLING tour, reach the tower in style!
• Tower of London After-Hour Tour and Key Ceremony – see the ancient Ceremony of the Keys held every evening
• Tower of London and Tower Bridge VIP Early Access Tour – see two iconic sights in one tour with no crowds!

The Tower of London is the first place I remember wanting to visit as a child. My grandmother was obsessed with the Royal Family and Crown Jewels , so I remember listening to her tales of dark towers, sparkling gems, globes made of solid gold. 

Naturally, when I first visited London at the age of 15, I went straight to the Tower of London. I remember heading out of Tower Hill station, eyes sparkling with excitement… only to be greeted by a snaking queue looping around the block. 

Long story short – I did visit the Tower of London that day , and loved every minute. The Crown Jewels glistened more than I could ever imagine, and I found all the dark tales about prisoners and beheadings really enthralling. 

Yet, I can still remember waiting in line forever. A few years later I moved to London and during the 5 years I called the city home, I don’t think I ever saw the Tower of London without a huge line out front. 

So, would you like to visit the Tower of London and skip the line? You’re in the right place. Here we’ll share with you 8 hassle-free ways to get Tower of London tickets , and skip the line to make the most of your London visit!

What to See at the Tower of London

Did you know the Tower of London is almost 1000 years old? It was built by William the Conqueror in 1066, as a fortification to protect the newly conquered capital and its citizens. Nowadays, it is UNESCO-listed , as it’s one of the best-preserved original Medieval buildings in Europe.

Contrary to its name, the Tower of London is not a single tower , but a complex of over 20 separate buildings. It was the official royal residence until the 17th century, and served many other different purposes – Royal Mint, storage for government documents, place where the Crown Jewels were kept, observatory, prison, execution grounds, and even a private zoo. 

At the centre of the complex you’ll find the White Tower , the oldest structure, standing since 1078. Inside, you can see the Line of Kings , an exhibition of armour of all different kings with their weapons side by side. Make sure you check out Henry VIII’s impressive codpiece!

A short distance away you’ll see the Jewel House – yes, the name gives it away! Marvel at the impressive series of dazzling crowns , including the St. Edwards Crown , used for coronation and made out of 5 kg of solid gold, and the Imperial Crown (Queen Victoria’s favourite!) with giant sapphires, rubies, and diamonds. 

However, my very own favourite has to be the Queen Mother’s Crown , sporting the legendary diamond Koh-I-Noor right in the centre – over 100 carats of pure light.

If you’re like me, you’ll spend most of your visit in the Jewel House. However, there’s more to see – including the Royal Mint with an excellent coin and medal exhibition, the Medieval House with reproduction of Middle Age furnishings, and the Brick Tower , where you can learn about the zoo once kept behind these walls.

If you like creepy, dark tales, make sure you dedicate some time to the Bloody Tower , the prison housing the tower’s darkest secrets. The most notable prisoners are probably Walter Raleigh , who voyaged to Guyana in search of Eldorado ; and the 12-year-old Edward V and his younger brother, Richard , who disappeared in the Tower in 1483. 

One of the best hidden gems in the Tower of London is Raleigh’s Lost Garden , where he spent time during his 13-year imprisonment and cultivated some of the plants he brought back from South America. 

Now you know what to see in the Tower of London , let’s move on to the next topic – how to get Tower of London tickets and skip the line!

Are you planning to head to Northern Ireland? Here’s our 16 Best Things to do in Belfast guide !

7 Ways to Get Tower of London Tickets

1) buy tower of london tickets on the official website.

You can buy Tower of London tickets on the official Historic Royal Palaces website . Tickets cost £34.80 for adults, £27.70 for seniors (65+) and students aged 18+, and £17.40 for children aged 5-17. Children aged 0-4 enter for free, and recipients of Universal Credit or other benefits are eligible for £1 tickets.

These tickets include entry to the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula, Battlements, Medieval Palace, Bloody Tower, Torture at the Tower exhibition, Fusiliers Museum, and Royal Mint exhibition.

At first, this may sound like an easy option. You pick your preferred time and date, with a colour-coded system showing you how busy it’s likely to be.

You are also asked if you wish to make a voluntary donation to Historic Royal Palaces , the non-profit organisation conserving the Tower of London and other Royal Palaces. 

With the suggested donation, prices are as follows: £38.30 for adults, £30.50 for seniors and students, and £19.20 for children.

Then, you select extras like guidebooks to the Tower or the Crown Jewels, and select your delivery method – if you’re not in the UK, the only available delivery method will be ‘print at home’. 

This doesn’t mean you are obliged to actually print your tickets at home – you can also display them on a mobile device. 

Then, you’ll be taken to a secure payment page, but the only payment methods accepted are credit cards. Alternative payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal are not accepted.

Buying Tower of London tickets on the official website sounds easy enough – provided you have a credit card. The only issue is that there is no mention of cancellations, refunds, or booking modifications.

So, if you are 100% sure you can make it at a specific date and time, by all means, go for it – otherwise, we warmly recommend buying through a third-party reseller. 

2) Buy Tower of London Tickets Through GetYourGuide

This is definitely the easiest way to get Tower of London tickets and skip the lines! You can choose between many third-party resellers – the one we recommend is GetYourGuide. 

First things first – Tower of London tickets on GetYourGuide are EXACTLY THE SAME PRICE as on the official website. There is no extra charge.

Buying tickets through GetYourGuide also comes with a host of added benefits – for starters, there are multiple payment options available , including Apple Pay, Google Pay and PayPal, plus all major credit cards. 

However, the main advantage is added flexibility! You can cancel your tour up to 24 hours before your visit, and still receive a full refund. The GetYourGuide website is easy to use, and there’s also an app available, allowing you to access your tickets on the go. 

In our opinion, this is the easiest and most budget-friendly way to get Tower of London tickets. Otherwise, you can always opt for a tour – read on for a selection of some of the best London tours that include the Tower!

3) Visit the Tower of London and Tower Bridge

Would you like to combine your Tower of London visit with other nearby sights? The Tower Bridge is just a few steps away, making it easy to combine two sights in one tour. 

If you’re travelling with children , this tour is a wonderful option. Led by a Blue Badge guide specializing in family-friendly tours, you’ll start visiting the Tower of London , focusing on tales of kings and queens, on the jewels and other fun stories your kids will like. No gruesome stuff , don’t worry!

Then, walk a short distance to Tower Bridge , where you can climb one of the two towers to see the Thames flow beneath your feet before visiting the impressive Engine Rooms. Two of London’s best sights in one go – book your tickets here!

4) Take a Beefeater Tour

This is probably the best Tower of London tour if you want to skip the line and miss the crowds. The tour takes place before official opening hours and is led by the Yeomen Warders, also known as Beefeaters , the ceremonial guardians of the Tower of London. 

The Beefeaters are usually retired gentlemen who know the Tower intimately, and will be happy to share secrets not included on other tours. For example, did you know that 6 ravens are always kept in the tower, as an old prophecy states that “if the Tower of London ravens are lost or fly away, the Crown will fall and Britain with it.”

They will also tell you about the Ceremony of the Keys , taking place each day at closing time. Book your Beefeater tour here – definitely the most authentic way experience the Tower of London!

5) Visit the Tower of London and Westminster with a River Cruise

This tour is a wonderful way to combine the Tower of London with Westminster , home to some of London’s most iconic sights – Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and naturally the Houses of Parliament with Big Ben!

The tour starts with a 3-hour walk around Westminster , checking out all the attractions mentioned above (and more!), before hopping on a river tour taking you all the way to the Tower of London. Along the way, you’ll see more London attractions – the London Eye, Tate Modern, Millennium Bridge and – naturally – the mighty Tower Bridge. 

Hop off the boat to enjoy a Beefeater tour of the tower and its secrets . This is probably the best comprehensive London for first timers experience – book your Westminster and Tower of London tickets here!

6) Get the London Pass

The London Pass is a great way to save money on attractions. You can choose between a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6- or 10-day digital London Pass , including access to over 80 attractions plus an open bus tour. 

The London Pass allows you to access the Tower of London for free, via a fast-track entrance – which also does get busy. You can pre-book a specific date and time via email, and if you want to do that for different attractions, you’ll have to email each place individually – not really that convenient, if you ask me!

The London Pass is very convenient if you are planning to head to several attractions , or if you are visiting London in winter and you’re unlikely to find queues. 

Get your London Pass here!

7) Take a Walking Tour 

You can also combine a visit to the Tower of London with a walking tour.

For instance, this full-day London walking tour includes Tower of London tickets and a Beefeater Tour in the morning , before hopping on a river boat and spending the rest of the day visiting other famous London sights like Whitehall , 10 Downing Street, Westminster, and Embankment . 

It’s a fun way to spend a day in London, but be prepared to walk!

8) Get 2-for-1 Tickets

There’s also a special 2-for-1 offer thanks to an agreement between Historic Palaces (who runs the Tower of London, Hampton Court and many other palaces) and Transport for London.

The offer allows visitors purchasing a full-price adult entry ticket to get another one for free, provided they reached the Tower of London or Hampton Court using public transport.

To be eligible for the free ticket, you need to show proof of travel on the Transport for London app – make sure you have it downloaded and ready when you approach the ticket office.

The tickets must be purchased in person at the Tower of London or Hampton Court ticket office, and the offer is not available on bank holiday weekends. Find more info here!

Tower of London Visitor Information

Advance bookings.

At present, all Tower of London tickets are timed to avoid overcrowding . Make sure you book in advance via a trusted third-party website such as GetYourGuide.

Tower of London Opening Hours

Summer (March 1st to Oct 31st) – Wednesday-Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm (last access 5 pm)

Winter (Nov 1st to Feb 28th) – Tuesday-Saturday, 9 am to 4.30 pm; Sunday and Monday 10 am to 4.30 pm (last access 5 pm)

Getting to the Tower of London

The closest Tube station is Tower Hill , served by the District and Central Lines. The second closest is DLR station Tower Gateway – other Tube stations within walking distance are Aldgate, Aldgate East, Monument, Bank, and London Bridge. 

London Bridge and Liverpool Street are the closest railway stations. 

If you are travelling by bus , routes 15, 42, 78, 100, and RV1 stop near the Tower of London. All open-top buses also stop nearby.

How Long Should I Spend at the Tower of London?

We recommend allowing half a day to exploring the Tower of London – there is really a lot to see and do! Three hours is the absolute minimum, and if you have a keen historical interest, you may consider spending most of your day.

Photography

You can take pictures in all outdoor areas of the Tower of London, and most of its indoor spaces. Photography is not permitted only in the following places , for security and religious reasons: 

• The Jewel House
• The Martin Tower
• The Chapel of St. John 
• Inside the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula

Security Checks

Visitors undergo a security check before entering the Tower of London. All bags and personal items are searched for forbidden items, including weapons, knives, fireworks, pepper spray and all other illegal items according to UK law. 

Backpacks and bags are allowed as there is no luggage storage on the premises , and so are pushchairs and buggies.

Cloakroom and Luggage Storage

For security reasons, there is no cloakroom or luggage storage facilities in the Tower of London.

Facilities for Families

You can visit the Tower of London with buggies and pushchairs, but it may not be comfortable due to cobbled ground. There is a buggy park near the White Tower, and baby changing facilities in the Brick Tower accessible toilets. Wristbands for your children are also available at the entrance, free of charge.