The Tower of London, a historic castle and fortress in central London, offers visitors a range of dining options both within and near its premises. From quick bites to sit-down meals, tourists can find various cuisines and price points to suit their preferences. This guide explores the best lunch spots around the Tower of London, including family-friendly restaurants, outdoor dining areas, and affordable options for budget-conscious travelers.
What Are the Top Dining Options Within a 10-Minute Walk?
For those looking to grab a quick lunch near the Tower of London, several excellent options are available within a short walking distance:
- The Authentic Souvlaki
- Cuisine: Greek
- Location: Fenchurch Street Station market
- Highlights: Fast, delicious, and reasonably priced Greek food
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Recommended: Chicken and Halloumi lunch box with pita and salad (£8)
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De Vine
- Cuisine: British
- Location: 19 Vine St, Tower Hill
- Highlights: Full-sized English breakfast with steak fries and coffee (£5)
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Other options: Chicken curry and local favorites
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Great British Fish and Chips
- Cuisine: British Fish and Chips
- Location: Unit 2 Western Pavillion, Tower Hill
- Highlights: Fast, cheap, and delicious fish and chip options
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Price range: Meals starting from a few pounds
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Borough Market
- Cuisine: Various (including sushi, Algerian, and more)
- Location: 5-10 minute walk from Tower Bridge
- Highlights: Wide range of foods at reasonable prices
- Notable options: Feng Sushi and The Market Porter pub
Where Are the Best Family-Friendly Restaurants?
Families visiting the Tower of London have several child-friendly dining options to choose from:
- New Armouries Café
- Location: Inside the Tower of London
- Children’s Menu: Hot meals, soup, sandwiches, paninis, salads, and specific children’s options
- Dietary options: NGCI, vegan, and vegetarian
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Accessibility: Step-free and wheelchair access
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Ravens Café
- Location: Inside the Tower of London
- Children’s Menu: Loaded dogs and other snacks
- Dietary options: NGCI, vegan, and vegetarian
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Amenities: Outdoor seating with views of the Tower and ravens
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Tower of London Café
- Location: Tower Wharf by the River Thames
- Children’s Menu: Various snacks and refreshments
- Dietary options: NGCI, vegan, and vegetarian
- Accessibility: Step-free and wheelchair access, riverside seating
What Are the Best Outdoor Dining Spots?
For those who prefer to dine al fresco, consider these options:
- Ravens Café
- Seating: Outdoor seating available
- Views: Tower of London and the ravens
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Ambiance: Casual and scenic
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Tower of London Café
- Seating: Riverside seating
- Views: River Thames
- Ambiance: Relaxed and scenic
Which Are the Most Affordable Lunch Options?
Budget-conscious visitors can enjoy these wallet-friendly lunch spots:
- De Vine
- Price Range: Around £5 for a full English breakfast
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Value: Known for good value meals
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Great British Fish and Chips
- Price Range: Meals starting from a few pounds
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Highlights: Fast and cheap options
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The Authentic Souvlaki
- Price Range: Lunch boxes from £8 (additional £1.50 for fries)
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Value: Reasonable prices for quality and portion size
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JD Wetherspoons – Liberty Bounds
- Price Range: Average meal from around £5 upwards
- Highlights: Good value, no loud music, variety of options
What Are the Notable Lunch Packages or Timings for Tourists?
Tourists planning their visit should consider these lunch options and timings:
- New Armouries Café
- Timings:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 09:00 to 17:00
- Sunday and Monday: 10:00 to 17:00
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Convenience: Located inside the Tower of London
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Sargeant’s Mess
- Location: Inside the Tower of London
- Menu: Weekly changing selection of British classics
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Highlights: Views of the Tower while dining
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Borough Market
- Best visited: Fridays and Saturdays for the full market experience
- Variety: Multiple food stalls offering different cuisines at reasonable prices
What Are the Must-Try Local Specialties Near Tower of London?
When visiting the Tower of London, don’t miss out on these local culinary delights:
- Traditional Fish and Chips
- Where to try: Great British Fish and Chips
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What to expect: Crispy battered fish with thick-cut fries
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Full English Breakfast
- Where to try: De Vine
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What to expect: Eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, toast, and more
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Greek Souvlaki
- Where to try: The Authentic Souvlaki
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What to expect: Grilled meat or halloumi with pita and salad
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British Pub Fare
- Where to try: JD Wetherspoons – Liberty Bounds
- What to expect: Classic dishes like bangers and mash or shepherd’s pie
How to Plan Your Lunch Break During Tower of London Visit?
To make the most of your lunch break while exploring the Tower of London, consider these tips:
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Timing: Plan your lunch between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to avoid peak crowds.
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Location: Choose a spot based on your next destination:
- Inside the Tower: New Armouries Café or Ravens Café
- Heading to Tower Bridge: Tower of London Café
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Exploring nearby areas: The Authentic Souvlaki or De Vine
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Budget:
- Low budget: Great British Fish and Chips or De Vine
- Mid-range: The Authentic Souvlaki or Borough Market
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Higher end: Sargeant’s Mess
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Dietary Requirements:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: New Armouries Café or Ravens Café
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Gluten-free: Look for NGCI options at Tower of London cafés
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Time Management:
- Quick bite: The Authentic Souvlaki or Great British Fish and Chips
- Leisurely meal: Sargeant’s Mess or Borough Market
By considering these factors, you can ensure a satisfying lunch experience that complements your Tower of London visit.