Royal palace, armoury, prison, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Tower of London has lived many lives over its almost thousand-year history, and you’ll discover them all on this 2.5 hour private tour. You’ll have your own personal storyteller, a Blue Badge guide (that’s the gold standard of tour guide), who’ll weave tales of intrigue as you tour the White Tower, the dazzling Crown Jewels and the infamous Traitor’s Gate. James, a local guide, says, “the Tower is steeped in superstition and tradition, with stories around every corner. Best of all, you can tell your guide what really interests you for a tailored and truly personal tour."
You’ll walk the ramparts and cobbled lanes of the royal fortress, which was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 shortly after his famous 1066 victory at the Battle of Hastings. Wandering past Traitor’s Gate, you’ll hear about the darkest side of the tower’s past – tragic tales of prisoners who were taken in through this murky river gate to be executed, like Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes.
You’re likely to hear their loud military voices before you see the Beefeater’s scarlet and gold uniforms. Officially called Yeoman Warders, they’re the guardians of the tower and Crown Jewels who live at the Tower with their families – a tradition upheld since Henry III’s reign. James adds, “you’ll meet the Beefeaters and learn about the famous resident ravens that they care for along with the legend that if they all fly away, the kingdom and Crown will fall.” As well as seeing the permanent collection of historical armour and the 23,000 gemstones that make up the Crown Jewels display, you can also choose to visit the torture chamber or temporary exhibits to round off your trip.
