Did You Know?

Did you know that London is the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games? The first modern Olympics were held in London in 1908. The city has since hosted the Games two more times, in 1948 and 2012. The 2012 London Olympics marked the first time that the Games were held in the city in over 60 years.

Did you know that London is home to many world-class museums and galleries? The city is renowned for its cultural institutions, such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Tate Modern, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. These institutions house vast collections of art, historical artifacts, and cultural treasures.

Did you know that London has an extensive underground railway system known as the "Tube"? The London Underground is the oldest underground railway network in the world and serves millions of passengers every day. It is an iconic symbol of the city's transportation system and a convenient way to navigate London's neighborhoods.

Did you know that London is home to the iconic Tower Bridge? Often mistaken as London Bridge, Tower Bridge is a famous symbol of the city. It was completed in 1894 and is an impressive feat of engineering. Visitors can walk across its high-level walkways and enjoy panoramic views of the River Thames and the city.

Did you know that London has a diverse and multicultural population? Over 300 languages are spoken in the city, making it one of the most linguistically diverse places in the world. People from various cultural backgrounds have made London their home, contributing to its vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

You are here: Home | Things To Do In London | Tower of London

Discover The Tower Of London: A Historic Treasure In The Heart Of The City

Few buildings in London, or for that matter in the world, can be truly called as multi-purpose as the Tower of London. Building began on it in 1078, triggered by William the Conqueror just after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Like any structure of that age it has been rebuilt (1285) and expanded (in modern times), and requires constant refurbishing. Because it was designed to have several wards, or sections within sections, it was regarded as a secure building, hence its diversity of uses, some of those assuredly requiring thick walls and strong locks.

The Tower of London, technically a castle, has been used over its nearly ten decades as: a royal residence; a prison (several times); a warehouse; an armoury; a fortress; a Royal Mint and treasury; a wild animal menagerie (zoo); a public records office; and a museum. One of the city’s most visited tourist attractions, it welcomes close to 3 million visitors each year.

While the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has a dark reputation, not as many executions have taken place there as many assume. Still, when you go you can almost sense the presence of the murdered, be that Anne Boleyn, Henry VI, Lady Jane Grey or the unfortunate Princes in the Tower. Tower staff report regular examples of hauntings.

Plan a day-long visit as there is much to be seen in the Tower of London, including The Jewel House, which displays the Crown Jewels.