Tower of Legend

ENGLISH history has always been very important to me and nowhere is it better represented than at the Tower of London.  It is a central part of this country’s long story.  I know that our country changed completely after Hastings.  The old Saxon order disappeared for ever and Norman feudal system took control.

William the Conqueror studded his new kingdom with castles to subdue it.  One of the earliest was the White Tower built at the south west corner of London’s Roman walls.  It was constructed from Normandy stone and painted white.  

It was originally a royal residence and remained so for centuries and remained so for centuries.  The sovereign would often use it a place of refuge during times of unrest and it has even housed a zoo at one time.

 England’s major mint was housed there and it provided comfortable quarters for important state prisoners.  These included the wives and friends of Henry VIII, Lady Jane Grey, Sir Walter Raleigh, the Wizard Earl and many others.  It was used as a prison during the 20th Century.

Tourists can join the Yeoman Warder’s Tours and hear all the traditional tales of pain, passion, treachery and torture of the tower.  The Yeomen or Beefeaters will tell them to watch out for the ravens and tell of the legend that if the ravens ever leave the Tower, both it and the English Monarchy will fall.  They will be told of Colonel Blood’s intrepid attempt to steal the Crown Jewels.

England’s Crown Jewels and Regalia are on display in the Tower.  Each piece is able to reveal stories of the country’s rulers.  The world’s largest cut diamond, Cullinan 1, which weighs just over 530 carats, is in the monarch’s sceptre.

The Tower was mainly a fortress and still displays an impressive collection of historic weapons.  There are frequent displays from the Royal Armouries, including armours that were worn by Henry VIII and Charles I.

Opening times are 9am to 6pm on Tuesdays to Saturdays and 10am to 6pm on Sundays and Mondays, last admission at 5pm from March to October and 9am to 5pm on Tuesdays to Saturdays and 10am to 5pm on Sundays and Mondays, and  the last admission is at 4pm from November to February.  The internal buildings close 30 minutes after the last admission and visits are advised to allow at least two to three hours for their visit.  The Tower is open throughout the year with the exceptions of December 24/26 and New Year’s Day.

Visitors can obtain an extensive choice of meals and other refreshments in the New Armouries Café.  There is a wide range of gifts, including some exclusive products available at the various shops within the Tower.

Tourists can obtain more up to date information on 0870 756 6060.