History comes alive at the Tower of London this summer

Families in search of an unforgettable day out this summer need look no further than the Tower of London, where a packed programme of activity promises to bring history to life for visitors of all ages.

A Tudor To-Do (8 June – 14 August)

Kicking off the summer season, visitors to the Tower of London will be swept up in preparations for the Coronation of Anne Boleyn. It’s the 1530’s, there’s plenty to do, and you’re on the guest list… as staff. Step into the chaos and colour of Tudor London as pop-up performances and playful encounters put visitors right in the middle of the action, co-produced by History Riot. Expect bustling workers, royal drama, and plenty of Tudor mischief as families are recruited to help pull off the preparations.

Boleyn is Back (25 July – 14 August)

She’s ambitious, she’s iconic, and this summer… she’s back. Queen Anne Boleyn herself returns to the Tower, ready to meet her loyal subjects. Visitors will be swept into the Queen’s presence ahead of her Coronation Day, guided by her dutiful courtiers. Families will have the chance to ask Queen Anne Boleyn a question, and take a rare selfie with this regal guest. Just mind your manners—this is Tudor England, after all.

Imagining Animals (19 – 31 August excluding 25 August)

In the final two weeks of August, the Tower of London will be transformed with extraordinary creatures brought to life through puppetry, music and movement. Commissioned by Historic Royal Palaces and created by acclaimed artists Mervyn Millar and Suzy Willson, Imagining Animals is inspired by the rich history of creatures from all over the world, including those that once lived at the Tower as part of the Royal Menagerie for nearly 600 years.

Visitors can expect to be spellbound by the spectacle of surprising creatures, some larger than life, transforming the London landmark into something wilder and more wonderful. From a gentle, ambling bear to a curious monkey, the unfurling of a porcupine or the distant echo of animal calls, families will be greeted by a host of enchanting encounters throughout their visit.

More to see and do

The Tower of London truly has something to offer for everyone, from nearly 1000 years of history to the legendary ravens who rule the roost. Visitors are invited to roam the towers and battlements, exploring stories of Kings, Queens, prisoners, and daring escapades, or sit and soak up the atmosphere in a café within the walls of the fortress.

Yeoman Warders, or “Beefeaters” share myths, legends and unbelievable tales from the London landmark’s history in their iconic tours of the Tower, included in standard admission. Meanwhile, visitors are invited to get up close to the famous Crown Jewels, a glittering collection of working royal regalia that has been turning heads for centuries. Following its 2023 re-display, visitors can delve deeper into the history of the collection with immersive displays, tactile models and updated audio-visual elements.

Plan your visit

This summer, the South Lawn which once housed the Tudor royal apartments is open at peak times for families to picnic together in the sunshine. Practical touches include dedicated buggy parking and a comprehensive access guide for those who wish to know what to expect from a visit to the Tower of London.

A range of discounts are available for admission to the Tower throughout the year, including £1 tickets for families in receipt of Universal Credit and other means tested financial benefits. Those who live in the London borough of Tower Hamlets are also entitled to £1 admission to the Tower of London.

Notes to Editors

For further information and images please contact Jessica England in the Historic Royal Palaces Press Office via [email protected] / 020 3166 6166

Tickets: Adult / Concession / Child / Free for Historic Royal Palaces members. £1 tickets are available for those in receipt of certain means-tested financial benefits, and those who live in the London borough of Tower Hamlets.

Each of these summer activities are included in standard admission to the Tower of London.

A Tudor To-Do: https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/whats-on/a-tudor-to-do/

Imagining Animals: https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/whats-on/imagining-animals/

Historic Royal Palaces is the independent charity that loves and looks after six of the most wonderful palaces in the world. The palaces are the setting for the stories that shape us all, and we’re bringing them to people in ways that mean more to them. We want everyone to find themselves in the spaces and stories we share. 

Registered charity number 1068852. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk