Visiting the Tower of London: Crown Jewels, Beefeaters and Ravens

To visit the English capital, London, without paying a visit to the Tower of London would be almost criminal. The Tower of London holds a treasure of history and interest. But be sure to allow 2-3 hours for your visit as there is much to see and do.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE TOWER OF LONDON

The Tower was built almost a millennium ago and was in fact built by somebody who was not an Englishman. The History of the Tower of London began with William of Normandy. William was cousin to England's king Edward and fully expected to be given the throne but Edward decided to give the throne to his English brother-in-law Harold. William was extremely upset by this turn of events and sailed across the English Chanel to conquer England. This he did on October 14, 1066 at the Battle of Hastings. William, now known as William the conqueror was then crowned King of England. Once he became King William built forts right across the kingdom one of which was a huge stone stronghold and was named The Tower Of London.

It took 20 years to build this 100 foot high tower which had some walls that were 15 feet thick. The Tower was surrounded and protected by a ditch, a river, a new stone wall and an old Roman wall. It was intended that this would be a place where if imprisoned there no prisoner should escape. And in fact for many the Tower was their last sight seen on this earth.

A FEW FAMOUS PERSONS IMPRISONED AT THE TOWER

The Tower of London has held a number of important persons, many of whom never left alive. Here is just a small sample to wet the appetite: Sir Thomas Moore (imprisoned and executed as he would not acknowledge Henry VIII as head of the English Church), Anne Boleyn ( imprisoned and executed for not providing Henry VIII a male heir), Princess Elizabeth (the daughter of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn ).She survived and became the Queen of England.

There are many many more each with a fascinating story.

THE TOWER OF LONDON TODAY

Today the Tower is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can see the Crown Jewels, Beefeaters and Ravens.

The Crown Jewels have been housed in the Tower since the 14^th Century and are still used by the British Royal family. In fact the worlds largest cut diamond (530 carats) can be seen sitting a top of the Queen's Sceptre.

Beefeaters who were once employed to taste the King's food to check that it had not been poisoned today act as the Tower of London's tourist guides and they do a fine job.

The Ravens are especially important to the Tower as legend has it that should the Ravens leave the tower the monarchy will fall. Charles II on hearing this tale made sure that Ravens should always be present at the tower and they are even protected by a Royal decree.

OPENING HOURS

The tower of London is open all year long

1 March - 31 October

Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 6pm

Sunday & Monday 10am -6pm

(last admission 5pm)

1 November - 28 February

Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 5pm

Sunday & Monday 10am -5pm

(last admission 4pm)

Address

Tower of London

London

EC3N 4AM

Telephone for recorded info

0870 756 6060

Nearest tube stations

Tower Hill

London Bridge

Nearest train stations

Fenchurch Street

London Bridge

Buses

Numbers - 15,42,78,100 & RV1

Riverboat

From Charing Cross, Westminster and Greenwich to Tower Pier.

There are also many sightseeing buses that include the Tower of London in their tours.