The Tower of London is one of the city’s most famous and historic attractions, drawing millions of visitors every year. However, long lines and large crowds can sometimes make the experience less enjoyable. If you want to explore the Tower of London while avoiding the hustle and bustle, follow these tips for a more peaceful and immersive visit.
1. Arrive Early or Visit Late
One of the best ways to beat the crowds is to arrive as soon as the Tower opens or visit in the late afternoon. The Tower of London typically opens at 9:00 AM on weekdays and 10:00 AM on Sundays and Mondays. Arriving at least 15–30 minutes before opening ensures you’re among the first to enter, allowing you to explore key attractions like the Crown Jewels with minimal wait times.
Alternatively, visiting after 3:00 PM also helps, as many tour groups and school trips will have left by then. The Tower closes at 5:30 PM in summer and 4:30 PM in winter, so plan accordingly.
Pro Tip: Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, especially outside of peak tourist season.
2. Book Tickets in Advance
To save time, book your tickets online before your visit. This not only helps you avoid ticket booth lines but sometimes offers discounts. Opt for an early time slot if possible, as this will help you get in before the crowds build up.
For an even more exclusive experience, consider booking a private or small-group guided tour before the general public arrives.
3. Prioritize the Crown Jewels First
The Crown Jewels exhibit is one of the most popular attractions within the Tower and tends to have the longest lines. If you want to see them without waiting too long, head straight there as soon as the Tower opens. The queue can stretch for hours later in the day, so getting this experience done first allows you to enjoy the rest of the Tower at a more relaxed pace.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting with family or friends, have one person queue while others explore nearby areas like the White Tower or Medieval Palace.
4. Take a Self-Guided Tour Instead of a Yeoman Warder Tour
The famous Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) tours are entertaining and informative, but they also attract large groups, making some areas feel crowded. Instead, opt for a self-guided tour using an audio guide or a printed map. This allows you to explore at your own pace and avoid large tour groups gathering around key sites.
Pro Tip: If you do want to join a Beefeater tour, try to catch the first one of the day when fewer people are present.
5. Explore Lesser-Known Areas First
Many visitors rush to see the Crown Jewels and the main towers, but there are plenty of hidden gems within the Tower of London that remain relatively quiet. Start your visit by exploring areas like:
- The Medieval Palace: A reconstructed section showing how royals once lived.
- The Wall Walk: A great place to take photos with fewer crowds.
- The Fusilier Museum: An interesting but often overlooked exhibit.
By visiting these lesser-known spots first, you’ll get a unique perspective on the Tower before heading to the more crowded attractions.
6. Visit During the Off-Peak Season
If you have flexibility in your travel schedule, consider visiting during off-peak months. Late autumn (November) and early spring (March) tend to have fewer tourists. The winter months (except for the holiday season) also see smaller crowds, and the Tower takes on a special atmosphere with fewer people wandering its historic walls.
7. Plan Your Exit Through the Riverside Walk
Instead of exiting through the main entrance, consider taking a scenic walk along the River Thames afterward. The Tower Bridge and St. Katharine Docks offer stunning views and are much quieter than the busy Tower Hill area. This provides a peaceful way to reflect on your visit without immediately stepping back into the city’s hustle and bustle.
Final Thoughts
The Tower of London is an unmissable historical site, and with a bit of planning, you can enjoy it without battling overwhelming crowds. By arriving early, booking ahead, prioritizing key exhibits, and exploring lesser-known areas first, you’ll have a more enjoyable and immersive experience. Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to appreciate this iconic landmark at its best.
