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Experience an unforgettable journey together at the historical heart of London. The Tower of London, one of the top things to do in London for couples, is an unmissable adventure. Filled with tales of royalty, intrigue, and history, it’s a captivating escape into a world of past marvels. Don’t miss this unique London for couples experience!
Why The Tower of London is one of the best things in London for Couples
The Tower of London holds an irresistible charm for couples. Its timeless allure is rooted in its rich and dramatic history, beautiful architecture, and the intimate experience that it offers. Here’s why it’s a must-visit:
- History comes alive: The Tower of London is a living testament to a thousand years of history. Embark on a journey through time, experiencing tales of royalty, treachery, and perseverance.
- Romantic Ambience: The ancient walls and stunning views over the Thames create a romantic atmosphere that is perfect for couples.
- Interactive Experience: The tour offers an interactive and immersive experience, offering a chance for couples to learn, explore, and experience history together.
- Spectacular Jewels: The display of Crown Jewels is nothing short of breathtaking. These stunning pieces of history add a touch of magic and splendour to your tour.
- Unique Memories: The Tower of London Tour is an unforgettable experience, offering unique photo opportunities and memories that will last a lifetime.
For couples seeking a memorable London experience, the Tower of London is a captivating blend of history, romance, and adventure.
You should not miss
The Tower of London is brimming with exhibits that share stories of love, family, and couples throughout history. While the tour is packed with myriad experiences, here are a few highlights that you certainly must not miss:
- The Queen’s House: This is the only Tudor building in the tower and was home to Anne Boleyn before her coronation and execution. This place bears witness to one of history’s most infamous love stories.
- The White Tower: Inside this iconic structure, discover the ‘Line of Kings’ exhibit, showcasing royal armours of Henry VIII, Charles I and James II. These armours tell tales of power, family inheritance, and legacy.
- The Medieval Palace: Explore the private chambers of King Edward I and Queen Eleanor of Castile. Their love story is depicted through various exhibits here.
- The Crown Jewels: While these spectacular pieces are symbols of power, they also often represent royal marriages and alliances. The ‘Cullinan I’ or ‘Great Star of Africa’ was a wedding anniversary gift to Queen Mary and King George V.
- The Bloody Tower: The story of the ‘Princes in the Tower’, Edward V and his younger brother Richard, is a tragic tale of family and power.
These exhibits offer a glimpse into personal stories behind the walls of power, making the Tower of London Tour an enriching experience for couples.
The Tower of London Tickets and Tours
The Tower of London Highlights
Here are some of the highlights you can expect during The Tower of London:
- Yeoman Warder Tours: Led by the iconic Beefeaters, these guided tours offer riveting insights into the Tower’s history, tales of intrigue, imprisonment, and execution.
- Ravens of the Tower: Legend has it the Tower and the kingdom will fall if the six resident ravens ever leave the fortress. Observe these fascinating guardians of the Tower during your visit.
- Royal Beasts: Discover the Tower’s history as a royal menagerie. Lions, polar bears, and elephants once roamed the premises, a fascinating angle to the Tower’s diverse past.
- White Tower and Royal Armouries: Arguably the most famous castle keep in the world, it houses Britain’s oldest museum, the Royal Armouries, and offers a glimpse into the world of medieval warfare.
- The Tower Green: This infamous execution site witnessed the demise of notable figures, including Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. A chilling yet intriguing part of the Tower’s history.
- The Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula: Explore this beautiful chapel, the final resting place of those executed at the Tower, including three queens of England.
These highlights truly encapsulate the essence of the Tower of London, promising an unforgettable adventure soaked in history, mystery, and romance.
The Tower of London Opening Hours
The opening hours of the The Tower of London are as follows:
Please note that the opening hours may change throughout the year. The following are the current opening hours for the Tower of London:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 to 17:30
- Sunday to Monday: 10:00 to 17:30
Where is The Tower of London and how to get there
The Tower of London is located in central London, on the north bank of the River Thames. It’s easily accessible via a variety of transport modes.
- By Underground: The nearest tube stations are Tower Hill (Circle and District lines) and London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines).
- By Rail: The closest train stations are London Bridge, Fenchurch Street, and Tower Gateway DLR.
- By Bus: Several bus routes stop near the Tower including the numbers 15, 42, 78, 100, and RV1.
- By River: You can take a river cruise service which stops at St Katherine’s Pier and Tower Pier.
- By Taxi or Car: The Tower of London is situated in the Congestion Charge zone, and parking in the area is highly restricted. If you’re travelling by taxi or car, consider using a nearby car park and walking or using public transport for the final leg of your journey.
- By Bicycle: There are bicycle stands located at the Tower Hill Coach and Car Park, and Santander Cycles available to hire throughout London.
History of the The Tower of London
The Tower of London, officially Her Majesty’s (now His Magesty’s) Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, was founded towards the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest. William the Conqueror built the White Tower, which gives the entire complex its name, as a demonstration of power, a show of strength to the Londoners and a symbol of his authority. The construction of the White Tower, which started in the early 1080s, is widely considered to be the commencement of the Tower of London.
Over the succeeding centuries, successive monarchs added to the fortifications and buildings within the complex, creating a unique compilation of architectural styles. In the 13th century, under Henry III and Edward I, the Tower was expanded with the addition of fortifications and facilities reflective of the power and grandeur of the English monarchy. The Tower’s use has evolved over the centuries from a royal palace and defensive fortress to a prison and place of execution, a treasury, a menagerie, the Royal Mint, and, most famously, the home of the Crown Jewels of England.
In the late 19th century, the Tower was transformed into a tourist attraction and museum, as many of its structures were repaired and remodeled under the direction of the Office of Works. From the First World War to the present day, the Tower has been maintained and conserved, becoming one of the world’s leading tourist attractions with millions of visitors annually. Today’s Tower of London Tour is a testament to the Tower’s rich and diverse history, showcasing over a millennium of British history.