The Tower of London free walking tour offers visitors a chance to explore the iconic fortress’s exterior and surroundings without paying admission fees. While not an official tour, it’s part of broader London walking tours that include the Tower as a key stop. These tours typically last 2-2.5 hours, covering the Tower’s rich history, architecture, and significance in English heritage.
What is a Tower of London Free Walking Tour?
A Tower of London free walking tour is a guided or self-guided exploration of the fortress’s exterior and surrounding area. These tours are often part of larger London walking tours that include the Tower as a significant stop. While they don’t provide access to the interior, they offer valuable insights into the Tower’s history and architecture.
Key features:
– Duration: Usually part of a 2-2.5 hour London tour
– Cost: Free (tips appreciated for guided tours)
– Coverage: Exterior views and historical commentary
How Does a Free Tour Differ from Paid Options?
Free walking tours and paid guided tours at the Tower of London differ significantly in several aspects:
| Aspect | Free Walking Tour | Paid Guided Tour |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (tips optional) | £34.80 for adults, £17.40 for children |
| Duration | 15-30 minutes at the Tower (part of a longer tour) | 1 hour dedicated Tower tour |
| Access | Exterior only | Full interior access |
| Guide | General tour guide | Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) |
| Depth of Information | Overview of history and exterior | Detailed history and interior exploration |
| Additional Amenities | None | Access to Crown Jewels, White Tower, exhibits |
What Are the Key Highlights of a Free Tower of London Tour?
A free Tower of London walking tour typically covers:
- Exterior architecture of the White Tower
- Views of Tower Bridge
- History of the Tower as a fortress, palace, and prison
- Stories of famous prisoners like Anne Boleyn
- Overview of the Crown Jewels (without viewing them)
- Explanation of the Yeoman Warders’ role
- Tower’s significance in English history
Where Does a Free Tower of London Tour Usually Start?
Free walking tours that include the Tower of London often start at popular London landmarks:
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
- Covent Garden
- London Bridge
- Tower Hill Underground Station
The exact starting point depends on the tour company or guide. It’s essential to check the specific tour details before joining.
What is the Best Time to Take a Free Tower of London Tour?
The best time for a free Tower of London tour depends on several factors:
- Season: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and smaller crowds
- Day of the week: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends
- Time of day: Early morning or late afternoon tours often have fewer people
Ideal times:
– Weekday mornings in April-May or September-October
– Weekday afternoons in June-August (to avoid midday heat)
– Avoid peak tourist seasons (July-August, Christmas, and Easter holidays)
How Can You Enhance Your Free Tower of London Tour Experience?
To make the most of your free Tower of London walking tour:
- Research basic Tower history beforehand
- Bring a camera for exterior photos
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Carry water and snacks
- Consider a guidebook or audio guide for additional information
- Plan extra time to explore the area after the tour
- Be prepared with questions for your guide
What Are Some Nearby Attractions to Visit After the Tour?
After your free Tower of London tour, consider visiting these nearby attractions:
- Tower Bridge (0.2 miles)
- HMS Belfast (0.4 miles)
- London Bridge (0.7 miles)
- St. Paul’s Cathedral (1.2 miles)
- Borough Market (1 mile)
- The Shard (1 mile)
- Monument to the Great Fire of London (0.5 miles)
How Does a Self-Guided Tour Compare to a Free Guided Tour?
Self-guided vs. free guided tours of the Tower of London:
Self-Guided Tour:
– Flexibility in timing and pace
– Ability to focus on personal interests
– Requires more preparation and research
– May miss out on expert insights and stories
Free Guided Tour:
– Structured itinerary
– Expert commentary and historical context
– Opportunity for questions and interaction
– Fixed schedule and pace
What Should You Know About Tower of London Admission and Interior Tours?
While free walking tours don’t include Tower admission, it’s worth considering a paid visit:
- Adult admission: £34.80
- Child admission: £17.40
- Includes Yeoman Warder tours (1 hour, every 30 minutes)
- Access to Crown Jewels, White Tower, and exhibits
- Audio guides available for additional fee
- Special events and exhibitions throughout the year
How Can You Plan a Full Day Around the Tower of London?
To plan a full day incorporating the Tower of London:
- Start with a free walking tour in the morning
- Break for lunch at nearby St. Katharine Docks
- Consider purchasing Tower admission for interior exploration
- Visit Tower Bridge in the late afternoon
- End with a riverside walk or dinner in the area
This approach combines the benefits of a free tour with the option for a more in-depth paid experience.
References:
1. https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/visit/
2. https://www.seethesightstours.com/free-london-city-tour
3. https://www.hrp.org.uk/media/1170/tolessentialinfo_v12.pdf