Tower of London

The Tower of London brings nearly 1,000 years of history to life through interactive exhibits, dazzling Crown Jewels, and entertaining Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) tours that engage children with tales of kings, queens, and even executions. Kids are fascinated by the armor collection, medieval torture devices, and the resident ravens, while the fortress setting provides plenty of space to explore towers, walkways, and battlements.

• ✓The Crown Jewels exhibition featuring sparkling crowns, scepters, and royal regalia
• ✓Interactive Yeoman Warder tours with entertaining stories about prisoners, executions, and royal scandals
• ✓The Royal Armouries collection with suits of armor for kings, knights, and even horses
• ✓The famous Tower ravens (legend says the kingdom will fall if they leave)
• ✓Medieval towers to explore including Bloody Tower and Traitor's Gate

1. 1.Book tickets online in advance to skip the ticket office queues and save money (discounts available for families).
2. 2.Arrive right at opening time (9:00 AM) to see the Crown Jewels with minimal crowds before tour groups arrive.
3. 3.Join a free Yeoman Warder tour departing every 30 minutes, as the Beefeaters tell captivating stories that bring history alive for kids in an entertaining way.
4. 4.Download the free Tower of London app before your visit for interactive maps and family-friendly audio content.
5. 5.Visit the White Tower first to see the armor collection and Line of Kings exhibit, which fascinates children with full-size horses in armor.

Visit on weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday, to avoid weekend and Monday crowds. Summer offers longer daylight hours for exploring the outdoor areas, but expect larger crowds. Late autumn and winter (except school holidays) provide a more atmospheric, less crowded experience.

Adult tickets cost around £34.80, children (5-15) £17.40, and under 5s are free, with family tickets available. There are multiple cafes on-site, no general parking (use nearby paid car parks or public transport), and the historic site has limited accessibility with some areas inaccessible to wheelchairs due to narrow staircases and medieval architecture.

Open year-round except December 24-26. Special events include the Ceremony of the Keys (evening locking ceremony), Tower by Twilight tours, and seasonal activities during school holidays. Winter visits offer a moody, atmospheric experience with festive decorations in December.

The Ivy Tower Bridge (10-minute walk) offers a family-friendly menu with a kids' selection and high chairs. For casual options, the Perkin Reveller pub at the Tower Wharf serves traditional British fare with children's meals and outdoor seating overlooking the Thames.