Where is Tower of London?

The Tower of London, which stands on the north bank of the River Thames in London, is a mediaeval castle and includes and ancient fortress, a prison, an early Norman chapel and former royal residence. The group of buildings is surrounded by a high stone wall and a moat. The Tower Today is a peaceful place, a showplace and museum frequented by eager tourists and sightseers. The Crops of Yeomen Warders, sometimes referred to as Beefeaters, help to guard the crown jewels, which are kept in the Wakefield Tower. In the museum is an extensive collection of armour, begun by Henry VIII. Soldiers from the regiments of foot-guards usually provide the Tower’s garrison.

The Tower of London holds an important place in English history. The construction of the Tower was started by William the Conqueror and, until the reign of James I, the Tower was a royal residence. Many famous people, however, have been imprisoned there. Sometimes the prisoners were taken there by boat, entering by the river entrance known as Traitor’s Gate. Among the famous prisoners to have been there are Lady Jane Grey, Anne Boleyn, Sir Walter Raleigh and Sir Thomas More. The last well-known prisoner there was William Joyce, sometimes called ‘Lord Haw Haw’; Joyce was confined in the Tower until his execution for treason in 1946.