Marvel at the Tower’s Mint
This often-overlooked section of the Tower is where the nation's coins were made for over 500 years. It’s now no longer operational, but you can explore what’s left of the site and learn all about the history of coin-making. In true Tower fashion, the ye olde coin-production processes were, of course, gory so avoid if you’re a tad squeamish. You’ll also get the chance to learn about modern minting processes – thankfully much safer today – through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
Spot the Beefeaters’ secret pub
The Tower of London wouldn’t be a typical British residence without a good old-fashioned boozer. Over the centuries there have been several pubs at the Tower, but only one remains – The Keys. Unfortunately, it’s an un-public pub, so only the Beefeaters and their guests are allowed in. You can, however, snap a photo of its quaint exterior as you walk towards the Salt Tower. And if you befriend a Beefeater, you might get the chance to pop in and have a nosy (yes, we’re told they serve up Beefeater gin).
The Keys - the official Tower of London pub
Check out prisoner graffiti at the Salt Tower
Snug in the right-hand corner of the Tower complex, you’ll find the Salt Tower which, during peaceful times, was used as a storehouse – hence the name. In times of turmoil, of which there was a lot, it was used to house prisoners. You’ll find lots of interesting inscriptions all over the walls, but our favourite is the astronomical clock carving created by a Bristol innkeeper who was accused of practicing sorcery. See if you can spot it – the detail is extraordinary.
See replicas of the royal beasts
As well as being home to centuries of royal drama, the Tower of London was once a zoo. Yep – for over 600 years all sorts of animals were held captive there, from lions and elephants to kangaroos. As you explore the grounds, you’ll spot various life-size animal sculptures dotted around – see how many you can find! And, if you head to the Royal Beasts exhibition, which is tucked away behind the Jewel House, you’ll learn all about the animals of the menagerie through interactive displays. Find out which magnificent beast fished for its lunch in the Thames, which exotic bird ate nails, and other fun facts.
Life-size animal statues dotted around the Tower of London
Smell the roses in Walter’s medicinal garden
Sir Walter Raleigh – of bringing tobacco back from America fame – was imprisoned at the Tower for a full 13 years until his execution. Although he lived in relative comfort, his mental health suffered and to remedy this, he created his own apothecary garden where he tended to medicinal plants, herbs and fruit. Explore this prison garden, located just outside The Bloody Tower, and see the literal fruits of his labour. You’ll learn all about the unique home-grown herbal medicines he created and what they were used for.
Enjoyed this? Check out our complete guide to visiting the Tower of London or read our guide to the Tower's ghosts (if you dare!).
