The Tower of London self guided tour offers visitors a chance to explore over 1000 years of British history at their own pace. This iconic fortress on the north bank of the River Thames houses the Crown Jewels, medieval palace rooms, and infamous prison cells. With a map and audio guide, you can discover key sites like the White Tower, Traitor’s Gate, and the Medieval Palace while learning about the Tower’s royal residents, prisoners, and legends.
What Are the Ticket Prices and Opening Times for the Tower of London?
Ticket Prices:
- Adult: £34.80
- Child (age 5-15): £17.40
- Members: Free
Opening Times:
- Monday and Sunday: 10:00-17:30 (last admission 15:30)
- Tuesday to Saturday: 09:00-17:30 (last admission 15:30)
What Audio Guide Options Are Available?
The Tower of London offers several audio guide tours to enhance your self-guided experience:
- Highlights Tour (2 hours)
- Imprisonment and Execution
- The Medieval Palace
- Family Tour
- Alternative Tales from the Tower
Audio guide prices:
– Adult: £5.00
– Concession: £4.00
– Child: £4.00
– Family (2 adults, up to 3 children): £14.00
Group discounts are available for parties of 15 or more.
What Features Does the Self-Guided Tour Map Include?
Upon arrival, you can pick up a free map and self-led trails from the Welcome Centre. The map includes:
- Entrance and exit points
- Locations of key attractions:
- Crown Jewels
- White Tower
- Traitor’s Gate
- Medieval Palace
- Suggested routes
- Information on accessibility
What Are the Key Historical Highlights to See?
During your self-guided tour, focus on these important historical sites:
- The White Tower
- Crown Jewels Exhibition
- Traitor’s Gate
- Medieval Palace
- Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters)
| Site | Description | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| White Tower | Central keep built by William the Conqueror | 45-60 minutes |
| Crown Jewels | Royal regalia and jewels display | 45-60 minutes |
| Traitor’s Gate | Water entrance for prisoners | 15-20 minutes |
| Medieval Palace | Luxurious royal chambers | 30-45 minutes |
| Yeoman Warders | Learn about the Tower’s guards | Throughout visit |
How Much Time Should Be Allocated for Each Area?
To make the most of your self-guided tour, allocate at least 3 hours total:
- Crown Jewels: 1 hour
- White Tower and Medieval Palace: 1-2 hours
- Traitor’s Gate and other historical sites: 1 hour
- Additional time for exploring grounds and exhibitions
What Essential Tips Should Self-Guided Visitors Know?
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and potentially witness the Opening Ceremony.
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes due to uneven surfaces.
- Large bags are not permitted; no left luggage facilities available.
- Collect audio guides from the Beefeater Shop (Bluetooth headphones not compatible).
- Food and drink options are available within the Tower complex.
What Are the Rules and Guidelines for Visitors?
- Exercise caution when walking due to uneven and potentially slippery surfaces.
- Accessibility services include:
- Wheelchair hire
- Digital British Sign Language guides
- Dedicated tours for visitors with disabilities
- For group bookings (15+ people), contact Acoustiguide in advance for audio guide discounts.
How Can Visitors Make the Most of Their Self-Guided Experience?
- Start with the Crown Jewels early to beat the crowds.
- Join a free Yeoman Warder tour for entertaining historical insights.
- Explore the White Tower’s armor and weapon displays.
- Visit the Medieval Palace to see recreated royal chambers.
- Take time to walk the walls and enjoy panoramic views of London.
- Don’t miss the infamous prison cells and execution site on Tower Green.
- Check the daily schedule for special talks or demonstrations.
What Additional Resources Are Available for Self-Guided Tours?
- Official Tower of London app with interactive maps and audio content
- Information boards and plaques throughout the complex
- Printed guidebooks available for purchase
- Yeoman Warders stationed around the Tower to answer questions
- Exhibition spaces with detailed historical information
By following this comprehensive guide, visitors can create a personalized and informative self-guided tour of the Tower of London, immersing themselves in centuries of British history at their own pace.
References:
1. https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/visit/
2. https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/whats-on/audio-guide-tour/
3. https://freetoursbyfoot.com/tower-of-london-tour/