Search Historic Royal Palaces

Sights and stories

Explore the wonders of this awesome fortress, and the stories behind them

Discover for yourself some of the Tower’s sights and stories, whether you’re planning your visit or just wanting to learn more about this iconic palace and its history.

Places and things to see

Palace highlights

We'll tell you why these are unmissable things to see.

Historic hotspots

Visit the place where dramatic events and quirky moments in the Tower's history unfolded.

More things to see...

Visit 'Discover the palaces' to find:

'Top ten' highlights across the palaces
Our favourite 'surprising sights'
New acquisitions

Stories and characters

Palace personalities

Interesting characters associated with the Tower.

Crawford Butler, Yeoman Warder
Perkin Warbeck, Imposter
Guy Fawkes, Conspirator
Arthur Wellesley, Duke of Wellington
Prisoners at the Tower

A building history and timeline

A history of the Tower's development and a timeline of some of its most significant events.

A building history
Tower of London timeline

What's on

Prisoners of the Tower

Discover the stories of some of the Tower's most famous prisoners. Play our online game 'Beat the Gaoler' to test your prisoners knowledge.

Beefeater Bear (Large)

A superb-quality stuffed toy splendidly dressed in his best uniform (note the medals on his chest). Cleverly designed to sit upright on a shelf or window ledge, he's surface washable and suitable for children aged 3 and over. Height: 40cm.