Tower of London Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

The Tower of London is situated on the north bank of London's Thames River. It is a 900-year-old castle fortress famed for holding the Crown Jewels. It has also played host to some pretty famous prisoners such as Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Lady Jane Grey. None of these stays ended very well, as they were all beheaded.

This sight is among the most popular of London's tourist attractions with over two million visitors each year. There you can contemplate the Crown Jewels, the regalia and robes of royalty dating back to the 1600s, or see the ravens who have inhabited this fortress since 1883. It is said if they ever depart the Crown will fall and Britain with it.

You will be able to meet the Yeoman warders who have been responsible for guarding the Tower since 1485. Known as Beefeaters, these people make up the ceremonial part of the Sovereigns bodyguard. They will share some fine tales about the torture and executions that have taken place during the Tower's dark past.

Tower of London bag policy

Given the presence of the priceless crown jewels, it’s no surprise that the Tower of London has some relatively stringent rules about entrants. Also, there is no baggage storage at the Tower. As no large bags are allowed in, this can create something of a problem for the traveler. Fortunately, there are a number of locker rental services near the Tower of London and you can drop bags off at one of these to enjoy your visit more easily.

Tower of London food policy

There are several restaurants serving a range of different foods and hot drinks. You will not be allowed to bring any food or drink into the buildings, with the exception of designated eating areas. You are able to picnic in the grounds and there are benches available. It is worth remembering that the UK weather is not always kind to visitors. Luckily the Tower is very central and there will be every type of restaurant, cafe or take away food one might desire in close proximity.

Tower of London camera policy

You are free to take photos in most areas. In the Jewel House, The Martin Tower, and both chapels in the grounds, taking photos is not allowed. This applies particularly to taking photos of the jewels themselves, and this can result in the confiscation of your equipment. If you are taking photos or videos for commercial purposes then you will need to get permission from the press team in advance.

Tower of London rules

There are a few items you should not attempt to carry when on a visit to this site. Anyone entering the area will be put through a bag search by trained security personnel.

• Fireworks or explosives.
• Knives or other weapons.
• Pepper spray.
• Any item deemed illegal under UK law.
• Tripods or selfie sticks.

Tower of London public transport options

There are many public transport options for visiting the Tower. There are several rail stations within walking distance including Charing Cross, London Bridge, and Liverpool Street Stations. Tower Pier is served by riverboats and there are many underground stations in the vicinity. Bus routes 15, 42, 78, and 100 all have stops nearby.

Finally, if you decide to cycle, there are bike racks behind the Tower of London shop.

Tower of London lockers

As you are not allowed bags in the grounds, it will be necessary to find suitable storage for any luggage you might have. This is a wise precaution because there are so many other sights and attractions in the vicinity that being burdened with baggage will undoubtedly restrict where you can go and what you can see.

From the Tower you are a short riverboat ride from the London Eye, a quick walk away from Tower Bridge and not far from Westminster. All of these options will only really be accessible if you are free from luggage.

Fortunately, there are a number of locker rental services in the vicinity. The closest of these is a mere eight hundred meters from the Tower itself. Look out for a facility that offers online booking so that you can avoid the disappointment of finding all the lockers full when you arrive. Something else to consider when choosing a rental service is free insurance for that invaluable peace of mind.