Great new ideas for groups: 2012
Crown Jewels respresented from 29 March 2012
No visit to the Tower is complete without seeing the breathtaking, world famous collection of fabulous finery and regalia – The Crown Jewels. The Crown Jewels have been held for safekeeping at the Tower for over 600 years, they are gloriously ornate, intricately made and have inspired acts of greed, violence and even spawned stories of evil curses. They also stand as a potent symbol of Britain’s enduring monarchy. At Easter 2012 we will unveil a re-presented Jewel House to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. The collection will be redisplayed, relit and the stories of the significance of these unique items of royal regalia will be told showing them in their context of a thousand years of royal history.
Please note that because of the work leading up to the re-presentation on the 5th April 2012 there will be early closures: from now until 5 April 2012 the cinemas and Hall of Monarchs will be closed. Other areas remain fully accessible. Until 5th April 2012 the whole Jewel House will close at 15:30 (to be cleared by 16:00) it is possible other areas my be closed off during the day but the Crown Jewels themselves will remain accessible throughout.
Royal Beasts
The unusual and intriguing story of the imperial Royal Menagerie is brought to life at the Tower of London. Visitors to the Fortress will encounter extraordinary beasts such as a polar bear who fished in the river Thames daily for his lunch, a leopard who stole visitors umbrellas and an ostrich that ate nails all represented through modern animal scultures by artist Kendra Haste and new interactive and sensory displays. Royal menageries started in Europe during the early medieval times when strange beasts were offered as royal gifts. Owning rare and impressive animals was a sign of status and power. Don't miss the chance to include this amazing layer of history in your group and tour itineraries when visiting the Tower of London. Royal Beasts forms part of the permanent interpretation of this fascinating and ever surprising top attraction in London.
Fit for a King - The White Tower
Housed in the awesome White Tower, the oldest part of the Tower of London is some of the finest armour ever created, brought together for the first time in modern history. Journey through 500 years of royal arms and armour created for both the battle field and the sports field. From Henry VIII's horse armour to Prince Charles's polo helmet and knee pads, worn for protection during the princes' polo playing days, the display is a unique timeline from the Royal Armouries collections.
Costumed events are also very popular at the Tower
Easter – The new Crown Jewels! 6-9 April 2012 - Its 1660 and the Merry Monarch is restored; the good times roll and its Party! Party! Party! But not everyone is happy with the new turn of events. Join our costumed interpreters to find out if the King will honour his promises or must the former supporters of Oliver Cromwell now fight for their lives?
Colonel Blood and the Great Crown Jewels robbery – 10-15 April 2012 - 1671 and the new Crown Jewels are safely installed in the Tower of London, but are they? Join the notorious Colonel Blood and his gang as they attempt the most audacious heist in history!
Rebels, regicides and Restoration – daily from May 2012 - Join a cast of colourful characters at the Tower following the restoration of the Monarchy in 1660 to the Glorious Revolution in 1688. From the King to an executioner, mistresses and judges to Roundheads, they will all be sharing their stories with visitors throughout the summer.
Austerity to Excess, 60 years in fashion – 2-5 June 2012 - A decade by decade look at the reign of Elizabeth II will include couples representing each era displaying the fashions of the time and highlighting the major social and political developments of the period.
Group admission - the easy way!
Avoid any queue and instead go directly to the special group ticket office where you can collect your tickets. Then follow the signs to the group entrance. All coach drivers and Blue Badge Guides bringing groups are admitted free.
Groups and Travel Trade Manual
Request your copy or download it here - it provides all details of group admissions to the Tower of London.
Guides and tours at the Tower
Audio guides
Discover the Tower with one of our audio guides and experience five different tours - chose stories about the Normans and before, and the Medieval Palace. Find out more about imprisonment and execution inside the Tower and be dazzled by the Crown Jewels. Finally, allow our Resident Govenor and Chief Yeoman Warder to tell you what it's really like to live inside a Royal Fortress.
Price: £4 for individuals; £3 for concessions and groups.
Languages: English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Portugese, Korean and Chinese (Mandarin).
Special recommendations
Two new military ceremonies have been introduced for visitors to enjoy. The Opening Ceremony is for those early risers who, at 8.45am, can watch the military escort march accompanied by the Yeoman Sergeant to open the Tower for the day’s business. At 14.45 a Military Guard assembles for inspection and marches to the Byward Tower to collect ‘The Word’, the secret password for after-hours entry to the Tower.
Pre-booked groups can view the Opening Ceremony from within the Tower of London. This new event will ensure your customers have a unique experience that will be well worth the early start!
Private guided tours
You may arrange for a private guide for your group. However, only authorised Blue Badge Guides are permitted to guide at the Tower. To book a guide please contact one of the following organisations:
Association of Professional Tour Guides:
http://www.touristguides.org.uk/
Guild of Registered Tourist Guides:
http://www.blue-badge-guides.com/
