Marvel at the historic armour of Henry VIII, Charles I and James II.
Marvel at the historic armour of Henry VIII, Charles I and James II.
9 April 2021. Following the death of His Royal Highness, there will be changes to opening hours for the gardens at Hampton Court Palace and Hillsborough Castle. For further information, please read our FAQs page
The magnificent tournament armour of Henry VIII and the gilded armours of Charles I and James II take pride of place in the Line of Kings in the White Tower.
The fabulous silvered and engraved armour of Henry VIII was made for the young, slender King in c1510-15. This is the earliest of the six surviving armours of Henry VIII, made for him when he cut a fine figure on horseback!
There are many other rare and superbly-crafted pieces made for noblemen as well as common soldiers. The Royal Armouries have always featured extraordinary curiosities - discover the armours of the 'Giant', the 'Dwarf' and the gift from the 'Great Mogul'.
These intriguing objects may not be quite what they seem...
In partnership with the Royal Armouries.
The Line of Kings was created in the 17th century and is one of the earliest museum exhibits. It was installed for King Charles II by the Royal Armouries to promote the restored monarchy.
Historic armours were displayed on life-like wooden figures, including those of Henry VIII, Charles I and later James II, in a parade of beautifully-carved horses.
Queens and less popular monarchs were left out as they didn't play a part in this royal message to early Tower visitors.
Over the centuries the Line of Kings has been re-arranged a number of times. Today, you can enjoy a display that combines this fascinating Tower story with amazing royal objects and their individual histories.
When you visit the Line of Kings, you're following in the footsteps of 350 years of visitors from all over the world.
Read what visitors throughout history have thought of the exhibition, and leave your own impressions for future guests.
History of the exhibition Timeline of Line of KingsMarvel at the imposing White Tower, a magnificent example of Norman architecture at the heart of the Tower of London.
Closed
Tower of London
Included in palace admission (members go free)
Shoot arrows, assemble firearms and brandish a sword in this exciting, hands-on experience in the White Tower.
Closed
Tower of London
Included in palace admission (members go free)
Explore the beautiful Chapel of St John the Evangelist and hear tales of famous old residents at the Tower with an expert warden.
Cancelled until further notice
Tower of London
Included in palace admission (members go free)
Explore one of the most exciting times in history with our high end range of arms and armour and medieval fancy dress.
From £6.99
Discover our decadent range of goblets and tankards inspired by our Historic Royal Palaces. The perfect gift for a medieval fan our goblets are made in a selection of leathers, glass and pewter.
From £17.99
Shop our products inspired by the almost 1000 years of history at the Tower of London.
From £9.99
