Planning a day trip to the Tower of London with your family is an exceptional way to dive into the deep roots of British history. The Tower of London, standing majestically on the north bank of the River Thames, has served as a royal palace, prison, treasury, and even a menagerie. Today, it’s a thriving tourist attraction that caters to visitors of all ages. But how can you ensure that your kids have a great time on this historical tour? This comprehensive guide will unravel the best tips for visiting this iconic landmark with your little ones.
Great Time to Visit the Tower of London
Choosing the right time to visit the Tower of London is the first step towards ensuring an enjoyable day out with your family. The Tower is typically less crowded during the weekdays and in the early morning hours. However, the best time to visit is school term time, when it’s less crowded. This will give your children ample time to explore every nook and cranny at their own pace.
Do note that the last admission is an hour before closing, so plan your tour accordingly. Check the official website for the most up-to-date opening hours as they tend to vary throughout the year.
Preparing for Your Visit
A successful visit starts with good preparation. Start by purchasing your tickets in advance. Not only will this save you time on the day of your visit, but it can also save you money. Family tickets are available and offer a discount for two adults and up to three children.
Once you’ve secured your tickets, it’s time to plan your day. The Tower of London is expansive and can be overwhelming for young children. Familiarize yourself with the layout and identify key attractions that your children will enjoy. The White Tower, the Crown Jewels, and the Yeoman Warder tours are all great options.
Don’t forget to pack snacks, water, and sun protection if you’re visiting in the summer. While there are cafes and food stalls on-site, having your own provisions will make it easier to keep the kids happy and hydrated.
The Crown Jewels: A Must-see Attraction
No visit to the Tower of London would be complete without seeing the Crown Jewels. This dazzling collection of regalia and jewels has been used by Kings and Queens at their coronations for hundreds of years. The children will be awestruck by the sheer magnificence of the crowns, sceptres, and orbs.
At peak times, the queue to see the Crown Jewels can get quite long. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting this exhibit as soon as the Tower opens or later in the afternoon when most visitors have moved on to other attractions.
Family-friendly Yeoman Warder Tours
For a truly immersive experience, join the Yeoman Warder tours. These tours, led by the iconic ‘Beefeaters,’ offer a fascinating insight into the Tower’s history. The Yeoman Warders are excellent storytellers, and they have a knack for bringing the past to life in a way that captivates children and adults alike.
The tour lasts about an hour and covers the Tower’s main highlights. It’s included in your ticket price, making it a cost-effective way to learn more about this historic landmark.
Making the Most of Your Day at the Tower
Ensure your kids have a memorable time at the Tower by engaging them throughout your visit. Encourage them to ask questions, interact with the exhibits, and share what they’ve learned. The Tower of London offers interactive displays and child-friendly activities, so make sure you take full advantage of these.
Also, don’t rush! It’s easy to underestimate the size of the Tower. You could easily spend a whole day exploring, so don’t feel pressured to see everything. Prioritise what your children will enjoy the most, and remember, the aim is to have fun and learn along the way.
With these tips in mind, visiting the Tower of London with kids can be a richly rewarding experience. So go ahead and plan your visit, a day of historical exploration and family fun awaits you at the Tower!
Kid-friendly Exhibits and Activities at the Tower of London
The Tower of London is not just a historic monument; it’s also a fantastic place for kids to learn about history in a fun and engaging way. There are several kid-friendly exhibits and activities that you can enjoy during your visit.
One of the highlights is the White Tower, an iconic symbol of London’s heritage. This was the first tower built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and houses the Royal Armouries collections. Children will be thrilled by the sight of the armours, swords and other medieval weaponry. Interactive displays allow kids to get a hands-on understanding of how these ancient items were used.
The Medieval Palace is another must-see. Here, kids can explore the lavish lodgings of Kings Henry III and Edward I. These include the St Thomas’s Tower, where the two kings lived, and the Wakefield Tower, where Henry VI was supposedly murdered. The vividly furnished rooms provide a glimpse into the lives of royalty, making history much more relatable for young visitors.
The Tower of London also offers a range of interactive games and activities for children. The popular ‘Knight School’ activity, for instance, teaches kids about the life of a medieval knight through engaging role-play.
Throughout the year, the Tower hosts family-friendly events like the Medieval Festival, which offers live performances, storytelling sessions, and craft workshops. Check the Tower of London’s official website for event schedules and plan your visit to coincide with these fun-filled events.
Visiting the Tower of London with kids is a remarkable way to combine fun and learning. The Tower’s rich history, coupled with its various child-centric activities and attractions, makes it an ideal destination for a family day out.
Children will marvel at the Crown Jewels, get a kick out of the Yeoman Warder tours, and be enthralled by the stories surrounding the White Tower. They’ll also get a chance to participate in hands-on activities that make history come alive.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Tower offers a unique experience that your kids will remember for years to come. From seeing the iconic Tower Bridge to the ceremonial keys, the Tower of London undoubtedly offers a wealth of experiences that will captivate young minds and hearts.
They’ll leave with not just fun memories, but a deeper appreciation and understanding of Britain’s storied past. After all, there’s no better way to learn about the reign of kings like Henry VIII or events like the execution of Anne Boleyn than to stand in the very place where history was made.
So, grab your London Pass, head to the Tower Hill tube station, and get ready for a day of exploration and adventure at the Tower of London!
