A comprehensive packing guide based on visitor experiences and recommendations
Overview
The Tower of London spans 12 acres with uneven cobblestone paths, steep spiral staircases, and multiple buildings to explore. Being properly prepared can make the difference between an enjoyable visit and an exhausting ordeal. This guide compiles essential recommendations from thousands of visitor reviews.
Essential Footwear
Primary Recommendation: Comfortable Walking Shoes
Why it matters: You’ll walk 2-3 miles minimum, climb numerous stairs, and navigate centuries-old cobblestones.
Best choices:
- Well-broken-in walking shoes or sneakers
- Flat, rubber-soled shoes with good grip
- Athletic shoes with arch support
- Comfortable boots (in wet weather)
Avoid:
- High heels or wedges
- New or untested shoes
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Smooth-soled dress shoes
Visitor insight: “The cobblestones are uneven and can be slippery when wet. I saw several people struggle in heels. Wear your most comfortable walking shoes!”
Special Considerations
- Spiral staircases: Many towers have narrow, worn stone steps
- Weather impact: Wet cobblestones become extremely slippery
- Distance: Expect to be on your feet for 3-5 hours minimum
Weather Gear
Rain Protection (Essential Year-Round)
London weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even on sunny days, bring:
Must-haves:
- Compact umbrella (small enough for bag)
- Light waterproof jacket with hood
- Water-resistant bag or backpack cover
Visitor tip: “It started pouring halfway through our visit. The gift shop umbrellas are £15+ so bring your own!”
Seasonal Clothing
Spring/Autumn (March-May, September-November)
- Layered clothing system
- Light jacket or cardigan
- Scarf for wind protection
Summer (June-August)
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Light layers (some buildings lack AC)
- Sunscreen
Winter (December-February)
- Warm coat
- Gloves (you’ll be outdoors frequently)
- Warm hat
- Extra layers
Key insight: “The White Tower has no heating or AC. In summer it’s stifling with crowds, in winter it’s freezing!”
Bags and Storage
Recommended Bag Types
- Small to medium backpack (most practical)
- Crossbody bag (keeps hands free)
- Secure bag with zippers (crowded areas)
Bag Considerations
- No large luggage allowed
- Limited storage facilities
- Security checks at entrance
- You’ll carry it all day
Visitor advice: “Pack light! You’ll be carrying everything for hours. My heavy backpack made the visit exhausting.”
Photography Equipment
What You Can Bring
- Cameras (all types allowed in most areas)
- Smartphones
- Portable chargers (essential for all-day visit)
- Selfie sticks (allowed but use considerately)
Photography Restrictions
- NO photos in Crown Jewels exhibition
- NO flash in some displays
- NO tripods in crowded areas
- Chapel areas may have restrictions
Important note: “You can’t take photos of the Crown Jewels, but you can photograph almost everything else. Bring extra battery – you’ll take hundreds of photos!”
Comfort Items
Highly Recommended
- Water bottle (refillable – fountains available)
- Snacks (energy bars, fruit)
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues/wet wipes
- Portable phone charger
- Small first aid kit (plasters for blisters)
Nice to Have
- Travel cushion (limited seating)
- Binoculars (for architectural details)
- Guidebook or downloaded app
- Notebook and pen
Money-saving tip: “The cafe is expensive (£4+ for water). Bring your own snacks and refillable water bottle.”
Planning Documents
Essential Papers
- Pre-booked tickets (print or phone)
- Photo ID (sometimes required)
- London Pass (if applicable)
- Student/senior ID (for discounts)
Digital Preparations
- Download tickets to phone
- Screenshot confirmation emails
- Download Tower of London app
- Save offline maps
Special Needs Items
Families with Children
- Portable snacks and drinks
- Entertainment for queues
- Lightweight stroller (many stairs though)
- Baby carrier preferred over stroller
- Change of clothes for accidents
Accessibility Needs
- Walking stick or cane
- Prescription medications
- Hearing aid batteries
- Reading glasses
- Any mobility aids
Note: Not all areas are wheelchair accessible due to historic architecture.
Items to Leave Behind
Don’t Bring
- Large bags or suitcases
- Sharp objects (security check)
- Professional photography equipment (without permit)
- Drones
- Large tripods
- Excessive valuables
Time-Specific Recommendations
Early Morning Visits
- Bring breakfast snacks
- Extra layer (morning chill)
- Caffeine if needed
Late Afternoon Visits
- Portable charger (phone battery)
- Snacks for energy
- Layers for evening cool-down
Peak Summer
- Extra water
- Cooling towel
- Fan (handheld)
- Sunscreen (reapply)
Winter Visits
- Hand warmers
- Thermos with hot drink
- Extra gloves
- Warm socks
Final Packing Checklist
The Essentials Box
☐ Comfortable walking shoes
☐ Weather-appropriate jacket
☐ Small backpack or crossbody bag
☐ Water bottle
☐ Phone with downloaded tickets
☐ Portable charger
☐ Umbrella
☐ Camera/phone for photos
☐ Snacks
☐ Hand sanitizer
Weather Dependent
☐ Sun protection (summer)
☐ Extra layers (winter)
☐ Rain gear (always)
Optional Comfort
☐ Guidebook or app
☐ Binoculars
☐ Notebook
☐ First aid supplies
☐ Travel cushion
Pro Tips from Visitors
- “Dress in layers – you’ll be constantly moving between cold stone buildings and sunny courtyards”
- “Bring a portable charger – between photos, maps, and audio guides, your phone battery won’t last”
- “Pack snacks and water – the queues for food can be 30+ minutes during peak times”
- “Wear broken-in shoes! I cannot stress this enough. The amount of walking is substantial”
- “A small backpack is ideal – crossbody bags swing around when climbing stairs”
Summary
The key to enjoying the Tower of London is being prepared for:
- Extensive walking on uneven surfaces
- Variable weather conditions
- Long periods outdoors
- Limited rest areas
- Expensive on-site amenities
Pack smart, dress appropriately, and you’ll be free to immerse yourself in nearly 1,000 years of history without discomfort or distraction.
Remember: It’s better to slightly over-prepare than to wish you had brought something. The Tower has stood for centuries – make sure you’re comfortable enough to enjoy every moment of your visit!