The best time to visit the Tower of London to avoid the biggest crowds is first thing in the morning on a weekday. Arriving before the 10:00 AM opening time allows you to be among the first inside, giving you a head start before tour groups and later arrivals fill the grounds. For the quietest experience overall, plan your visit during the off-peak seasons from October to March, when tourist numbers in London are lower.
Best Season to Visit
Your experience at the Tower of London can vary significantly depending on the time of year you visit. Each season offers a different balance of weather, crowd sizes, and pricing.
Autumn and Winter (October - March)
This is the ideal time for visitors who prioritise crowd-free exploration over sunny weather. With fewer tourists in London, you can explore the grounds and exhibits like the Crown Jewels with more space and shorter queues. While the weather can be cold and damp, the historic atmosphere of the Tower feels particularly potent on a misty day. Ticket and travel prices are also generally lower during this period.
Spring and Summer (April - September)
This is the peak tourist season in London, bringing with it warmer weather, longer daylight hours, but also significantly larger crowds. Expect long queues, especially for the Crown Jewels, and a bustling atmosphere throughout the complex. If you must visit during these months, booking your tickets well in advance is essential. An early start to your day is crucial to make the most of your visit before the peak crowds arrive around midday.
Best Day and Time to Visit
Timing your visit during the day and week can make a huge difference in your enjoyment and ability to see everything you want.
Best Time of Day
The absolute best time to arrive is just before opening (around 9:45 AM for a 10:00 AM start). This allows you to enter as soon as the gates open and head straight to the most popular attraction, the Crown Jewels, before the queues become overwhelming. The grounds are at their quietest for the first 60-90 minutes of the day. The late afternoon, about two hours before closing, can also be slightly less crowded as many visitors and large groups have already left for the day.
Best Day of the Week
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are typically the quietest days to visit the Tower of London. Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) are the busiest, attracting both international tourists and local visitors. Mondays and Fridays can also be busy as people extend their weekend trips. School holidays and bank holidays should be avoided if possible, as these are peak times for family visits.
How to Avoid the Crowds
Even during busy periods, a little strategy can help you navigate the Tower more peacefully. Follow this suggested itinerary to stay ahead of the crowds:
- Arrive Early: Be at the entrance at least 15 minutes before opening time.
- See the Crown Jewels First: Once inside, go directly to the Jewel House. Most visitors start with the White Tower or a Yeoman Warder tour, so by going against the grain, you'll experience much shorter queues.
- Join a Yeoman Warder Tour: After seeing the jewels, join one of the early Yeoman Warder tours. These highly recommended guided tours start every 30 minutes and provide a fantastic, entertaining overview of the Tower's history.
- Explore the White Tower Last: By the time your tour finishes, the initial rush for the White Tower (home to the Royal Armouries) will have subsided, allowing for a more relaxed visit.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need at the Tower of London?
It is recommended to allow at least 3 to 4 hours for your visit to the Tower of London. This gives you enough time to see the Crown Jewels, take a Yeoman Warder tour, explore the White Tower, walk the defensive walls, and see the various smaller towers and exhibits.
Do I need to book Tower of London tickets in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season (April-September) and on weekends. Booking online not only guarantees your entry on a specific day but also allows you to bypass the ticket purchasing queue on arrival.
Is the Tower of London open every day?
The Tower of London is open daily throughout the year, except for the 24th, 25th, and 26th of December and the 1st of January. Opening times can vary seasonally, so it is always best to check the official Historic Royal Palaces website before your visit.
Plan the perfect trip and beat the queues. Secure your entry by choosing your date and time when you book tickets online.