The Tower of London is an iconic historical site that has witnessed nearly a thousand years of British history. From being a royal palace to a prison, and now home to the dazzling Crown Jewels, the Tower offers an engaging experience for families. To make the most of your visit, here are 10 essential tips that will ensure your family’s day at the Tower of London is memorable, educational, and fun.
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1. Plan Ahead and Book Your Tickets in Advance
The Tower of London is one of the most popular attractions in London, drawing thousands of visitors daily. To avoid the headache of long lines, especially if you’re traveling with children, it’s wise to book your tickets online in advance.
Booking ahead not only saves time but also secures your entry on the day you plan to visit. Consider opting for a guided tour which provides a detailed exploration of the Tower of London as well as a trip to the nearby Tower Bridge.
If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions in London, look into purchasing a London Pass. This pass includes entry to the Tower of London along with several other famous sites, potentially saving you money on your sightseeing adventures.
2. Arrive Early to Beat the Crowds
The earlier you arrive, the better. The Tower of London opens at 9:00 AM from Tuesday to Saturday and at 10:00 AM on Sundays and Mondays. Getting there as soon as it opens allows you to experience the site with fewer people around.
This is especially helpful when visiting popular exhibits such as the Crown Jewels, which can get extremely busy later in the day.
By arriving early, you also give your family more time to explore the various towers, exhibitions, and activities available throughout the site without feeling rushed.
3. Start Your Visit with the Crown Jewels
The Crown Jewels exhibit is one of the main highlights of the Tower of London, showcasing the stunning ceremonial regalia used by the British monarchy.
This exhibit tends to get crowded later in the day, so it’s a good idea to make it your first stop after entering the Tower. The earlier you visit, the shorter the wait times, and your family can get a closer look at these dazzling treasures without feeling too cramped.
Don’t rush through—take the time to appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of the items on display, and explain their importance to your kids to make the experience more educational.
Just a heads up – you’re not allowed to take pictures of the Crown Jewels, but we were able to spend as much time as we wanted looking at them.
4. Join a Yeoman Warder Tour
The Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, have been guarding the Tower for centuries, and their guided tours are an absolute must.
These tours are included with your entry ticket and provide a fascinating and entertaining look into the Tower’s history, filled with stories of intrigue, treachery, and royalty.
The Yeoman Warders are great storytellers, and they’ll engage your children with tales of kings, queens, and prisoners.
Tours run regularly throughout the day, so check the schedule upon arrival and plan to join one. They last about an hour and cover many of the Tower’s most famous locations.
5. Explore the Medieval Palace and the White Tower
The Tower of London isn’t just about the Crown Jewels and history lessons—it’s also a fantastic place for kids to let their imaginations run wild.
The Medieval Palace offers a glimpse into the lives of royals during the Middle Ages, complete with recreated rooms that depict the Tower as it once was. Kids will love seeing the old furnishings, and it’s a great opportunity to talk about what life was like in medieval times.
The White Tower is another must-see. Originally built by William the Conqueror, it’s one of the most significant buildings within the complex.
Inside, you’ll find fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, which will captivate your kids and might even inspire a few “knights in shining armor” fantasies.
This was a favorite for our family. We spent the most time of our visit in the White Tower looking at the armor which was quite impressive and enjoying the various displays.
6. Check Out the Interactive Exhibits and Family Activities
The Tower of London offers various interactive exhibits and activities designed to engage younger visitors. From digital screens that bring historical figures to life to hands-on displays that allow kids to feel like they’re part of the action, these exhibits make history feel more alive.
During peak seasons and school holidays, the Tower often hosts special family activities such as medieval workshops, treasure hunts, and craft sessions. Check the Tower’s website ahead of time to see if any special events coincide with your visit.
7. Don’t Miss the Ravens
Legend has it that if the ravens ever leave the Tower of London, the kingdom will fall. The resident ravens are a quirky and fun part of the Tower’s history, and they’re sure to fascinate your kids.
Be sure to stop by and see these majestic birds up close. The Ravenmaster, one of the Yeoman Warders, is responsible for their care, and you might even catch a glimpse of him tending to his charges.
Explain the legend to your children—it’s a great way to add a bit of mystery and excitement to your visit!
8. Bring Snacks and Drinks
While there are cafés and food options within the Tower of London, they can be expensive, and the line can get long during peak hours. To save time and money, pack some snacks and drinks for your family.
There are several areas within the Tower where you can sit down and enjoy a quick break, especially if you’re visiting with younger children who may need a rest halfway through the day.
Just remember to check any restrictions on where you can eat within the site, as some areas may have specific rules.
9. Take Your Time and Enjoy the Views
The Tower of London is a large site with lots to see, so don’t rush through it. Allow your family plenty of time to explore at a leisurely pace, and take breaks when needed.
The views from the walls and towers are stunning, especially the views across the River Thames. One of the best parts of visiting was simply navigating the site, walking along the walls and the passageways felt like going on an adventure.
While you’re wandering and exploring, don’t forget to snap a few family photos with iconic London landmarks in the background.
You can also explore the Tower’s grounds, which are filled with fascinating nooks and crannies, statues, and memorials. Encourage your children to look closely and spot hidden details that they might otherwise overlook.
The site is a mix of indoor and outdoor, so be prepared to be out in the elements for a lot of your visit. This is only really an issue if it’s really hot or if it’s raining (which it does a lot in London). It rained during most of our visit, but we had umbrellas and still enjoyed the site.
10. End Your Visit with the Tower Bridge
After your visit to the Tower of London, consider extending your adventure by heading over to Tower Bridge, which is just a short walk away. This famous bridge offers fantastic views of London, and the glass floor walkway is a thrilling experience for children and adults alike.
Visiting the Tower Bridge Exhibition can provide even more insight into London’s history, and it’s a great way to round off your family’s day of exploration.
ENJOY YOUR VISIT TO THE TOWER OF LONDON
The Tower of London is a treasure trove of history, and with these tips, you can ensure your family’s visit is enjoyable and educational. From marveling at the Crown Jewels to exploring the medieval rooms and hearing tales from the Yeoman Warders, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Just remember to take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and let your children’s curiosity guide the way. The Tower of London will be just one of many wonderful things to see in London. Check out our essential family itinerary for London to find out what else you have to see!