Are you planning a visit to the Tower of London, but wondering how much time you should allocate for the tour? Well, the answer to this question depends on various factors, such as your level of interest in history, your schedule, and the amount of time you want to spend exploring this iconic landmark.
The Basic Tour
The basic tour of the Tower of London usually takes around two to three hours. This includes a visit to the White Tower, which is one of the oldest and most important buildings within the complex. Here, you can see exhibits that showcase the history of the tower and its significance in British history.
During your tour, you will also get a chance to see some of the famous attractions within the tower walls such as the Crown Jewels, which are an impressive collection of royal regalia that have been used by British monarchs for centuries. The Yeoman Warders or ‘Beefeaters’ guided tours are also a must-see. These guides are dressed in traditional Tudor-style uniforms and provide interesting insights into the history and legends surrounding this iconic site.
The Extended Tour
If you want to explore more than just the basics and have more time at hand, then plan for an extended tour. An extended tour typically takes around four to six hours and allows you to take your time exploring all that this historic landmark has to offer.
In addition to all that is included in a basic tour, an extended tour allows visitors access to places like St John’s Chapel in The White Tower and Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula where famous historical figures like Anne Boleyn (the second wife of King Henry VIII) are buried. You can also witness live re-enactments by costumed actors who bring history alive with their performances.
- If you’re interested in military history then visiting The Fusilier Museum within The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers HQ building is a must-do
- If you’re interested in the animal kingdom, then don’t forget to visit the Royal Menagerie where you can see a variety of exotic animals that were once housed within the tower walls
Conclusion
In conclusion, how long you spend touring the Tower of London depends entirely on your interests and schedule. If you want to see just the basics and have limited time, then two to three hours might suffice.
But if you’re a history buff or simply want to explore every nook and cranny of this iconic landmark, then plan for an extended tour that can take anywhere from four to six hours. Whatever your preference may be, we guarantee that a visit to the Tower of London will be an unforgettable experience!