Point of interest
Tower of London
in London, United Kingdom
More than 900 years of history: the Crown Jewels, the medieval White Tower and Tower Green, site of famous executions.
Where it is
The Tower of London stands on the north bank of the Thames at the eastern side of central London, just a few minutes' walk from Tower Hill Underground station.
Address: Tower Hill, EC3N 4AB Greater London
What it is
Highlights include the Crown Jewels kept within the Tower, the red-uniformed Yeoman Warders (the 'Beefeaters') and the famous resident ravens. Allow at least two hours to explore the castle, its towers and its grim stories.
History
The fortress was founded by William the Conqueror after the Norman Conquest of 1066, with the central White Tower built towards the end of the 11th century. Over almost a thousand years it served as a royal palace, armoury, prison and place of execution, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.