The Tower of London is one of the most iconic landmarks in London. A trip to the city is incomplete without a visit to this historical site. But, the question on everyone’s mind is – how much time do you need at the Tower of London?
Well, the answer to that question depends on what you want to see and do! The Tower of London has over a thousand years of history, so there’s a lot to explore. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect and how much time you might need for each activity.
The Crown Jewels
The Crown Jewels are perhaps the most popular attraction at the Tower of London. Visitors flock to see this dazzling collection that includes crowns, scepters, and other royal regalia.
To see the Crown Jewels, you’ll need to join a queue and wait your turn. Once inside, you can take your time admiring these magnificent objects.
Time needed: Plan for about an hour here.
The White Tower
The White Tower is one of the oldest buildings at the Tower of London. It houses an impressive collection of arms and armor that dates back hundreds of years. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and learn about medieval weaponry.
Time needed: Budget about 45 minutes here.
The Medieval Palace
The Medieval Palace was once home to kings and queens. Today, visitors can wander through recreated medieval rooms and experience what life was like in the past. The palace also has exhibits on torture and execution – not for the faint-hearted!
Time needed: Expect to spend around 30 minutes here.
The Beefeater Tour
No visit to the Tower would be complete without joining a tour led by one of the famous Beefeaters (officially known as Yeoman Warders). These knowledgeable guides will regale you with tales of the Tower’s history and answer any questions you may have.
Time needed: The tour lasts about an hour.
The Ravens
The Tower is home to a group of ravens, and legend has it that if they ever leave, the Tower and the monarchy will fall. Visitors can see these majestic birds up close and learn more about their history at the Tower.
Time needed: You can see the ravens in just a few minutes.
The Wall Walk
The Wall Walk is a scenic route that takes you around the perimeter of the Tower. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of London’s skyline and see other parts of the complex that you might have missed otherwise.
Time needed: Plan for about 30 minutes to walk around the perimeter.
In Conclusion
So, how much time do you need at the Tower of London? It really depends on what you’re interested in seeing.
If you’re short on time, prioritize your must-see attractions (like the Crown Jewels) and plan your visit accordingly. However, if you have a full day to spend here, take your time exploring all that this iconic landmark has to offer – from medieval history to modern-day traditions.