You are at the top of the page

Skip to content or footer

Start of main content

Fortress

Explore the Tower's defences

Explore the Tower of London's reputation as a formidable fortress with displays along the impenetrable defences. Imagine what it was like to be part of the medieval garrison defending the Tower as you stand beside life-size metalwork soldiers and their weapons.

Peer through the gate and imagine what it was like to be a medieval soldier working in this cramped but beautiful space.

Discover The Peasants' Revolt and Other Battles

In 1381, a rabble of peasants managed to successfully attack the Tower in the Peasants' Revolt of 1381 — this was one of many battles at the Tower of London.

However, the Tower of London's role as a formidable fortress isn't just about the past. The Tower remains a working fortress today, with a strong military presence.

You will see soldiers guarding the Jewel House and King's House, as well as the famous Yeoman Warders (or 'Beefeaters') who have been guarding the Tower for 500 years.

When

Open


Ticketing information


Included in palace admission (Members go free)

Buy Tower of London tickets

Wellington's modern fortress

Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, born 1 May 1769, was one of Britain’s greatest military leaders. He became the Constable of the Tower in 1826. He remained Commander-in-Chief of the British Armed Forces and became Prime Minister twice while serving as Constable at the Tower.

Besides draining the filthy moat, where possible, Wellington adapted the fortress for modern warfare and a more professional army. He closed the Tower pubs in favour of an army canteen and erected purpose-built barracks for 1,000 soldiers with a new officers' mess.

Wellington also demanded the closure of the Royal Menagerie at the Tower and the removal of all the animals following a series of vicious attacks.

Under Wellington's command the number of visitors soared, despite his reservations about public access to a military site.

Wellington dealt with the aftermath of a major fire at the Tower in 1841 and strengthened the ancient fortress at a time of civil unrest, when the government feared that rioting and revolution would spread to London.

Sculpture of a baboon for 'Royal Beasts' exhibition.

Explore What's on

  • Families
  • Things to see

Armoury in Action

Shoot arrows, assemble firearms and brandish a sword in this exciting, hands-on experience in the White Tower.

  • Open
  • Tower of London
  • Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Learn More
  • Things to see

Line of Kings

Marvel at the historic armour of Henry VIII, Charles I and James II in the Line of Kings at the White Tower.

  • Open
  • Tower of London
  • Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Learn more
  • Things to see

Torture at the Tower exhibition

Discover stories of the unfortunate prisoners who were tortured within the walls of the Tower of London.

  • Open
  • Tower of London
  • Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Learn more

Browse more History and stories

Henry VI

Intelligent and generous, he lived in his father's shadow and was killed for his throne

Tower of London Prison

It is known as an infamous prison, but it wasn't built to be one

The Tower of London Menagerie

For over 600 years, the Tower housed a menagerie of exotic wild animals

Shop online

Shop Tower of London

Shop our unique collection of gifts and souvenirs inspired by the almost 1000 years of history at the Tower of London.

From £2.50

Shop Medieval

Step back in time with our medieval inspiration collection, full of fascinating ornaments and homewares for your collection.

From £3.50

Shop Ravens

It is said that if the six ravens were ever to leave the Tower of London then the Tower and the kingdom will fall. Naturally, to preserve the kingdom six ravens are kept to live and protect the Tower of London.

From £2.50