Who Was the Last Monarch to Live in the Tower of London?

By Alice Nichols

The Tower of London is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom. It has a rich history dating back nearly a thousand years.

Over the centuries, it has been used for various purposes such as a royal palace, an armory, a prison, and even a zoo. One of the most interesting things about the Tower of London is that it has been home to many monarchs over the years. But who was the last monarch to live there?

The History of the Tower of London

The Tower of London was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 as part of his plan to conquer England. It was originally designed as a fortress to protect Normandy’s Duke against his enemies. Over time, it became a symbol of royal power and authority.

The Tower as a Royal Residence

The Tower served as a royal residence for several monarchs over the centuries. Some notable ones include Edward I, Henry III, and Elizabeth I. These monarchs lived in grand apartments within the White Tower which were equipped with all kinds of luxuries such as tapestries, fine furniture, and even private chapels.

The Last Monarch to Live in The Tower

The last monarch to live in the Tower of London was King James I in 1615. He moved into what is now known as the Queen’s House, which had been built by Henry VIII for his wife Anne Boleyn. James I did not stay at the tower for very long though; he left after only one year because he found it too uncomfortable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while many monarchs have lived at The Tower of London over its long history, King James I was the last one to call it home. Though he did not stay very long due to its lack of comfort compared with other royal residences like Hampton Court Palace, the tower’s rich history and importance to British royalty cannot be denied. It remains a popular attraction for visitors around the world, and a testament to the power and grandeur of the country’s monarchy throughout history.

  • Important Takeaways:
    • The Tower of London was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 as part of his plan to conquer England.
    • The Tower served as a royal residence for several monarchs over the centuries.
    • The last monarch to live in The Tower was King James I in 1615, though he left after only one year due to discomfort.