KS1 | Subject: History | Topic: Castles, Normans, Medieval, Tudors | Session Type: Self-led trail
From its earliest days, the Tower of London has had many roles. Its three main roles during its 900-year history were as a palace, a prison and a fortress.
Royal palace trail
For hundreds of years, kings and queens have stayed at the Tower and stored their most precious and important items here. Some, such as the Crown Jewels, can still be found here today.
Follow in the footsteps of monarchs from the past and discover how they would have used the Tower and what life in a royal palace would really have been like.
Prison trail
Walk through the rooms where prisoners were held, find the graffiti that they carved into the walls and discover tales of surprising crimes and daring escapes.
Fortress trail
Discover the surprising features of William the Conqueror’s castle and imagine life as a royal knight at the Tower.
Learning objectives
This trail is structured to allow pupils to:
National Curriculum Links
This session supports:
Availability
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (during term time).
Groups must arrive in time for their allocated time slot. Entry slots will be available from 10:15 - 13:45.
Capacity
Our trails are designed for your pupils to use in pairs or groups of three. We recommend splitting your class into three groups of ten, with two adults per group.
Please note: Your class will receive five trails each on the themes of Palace, Prison and Fortress. Each group will focus on a different theme and explore different parts of the Tower of London site. You will also receive three Teachers Packs that will provide further guidance and context for group leaders.
Price
£4.10 per pupil, price includes admission.
Key information for your school visit to the Tower of London.
Take a look at the trail map ahead of your visit. Printed copies will be available on arrival at the Tower.