Bell Tower

The Bell Tower is a fortified structure at the Tower of London with rectangular stone walls that guards access to the inner courtyard. It rises prominently above the surrounding fortifications and serves as a defining feature of the castle complex.

Built around 1190, the tower served as a prison for important religious and political figures during the Medieval and Tudor periods. This role made it a key place where power was exercised and authority was enforced.

The bells once called out the closing of the gates and now ring for important ceremonies at the fortress. They mark moments that matter to visitors and connect daily life here to a long past.

The tower is accessible to visitors who explore it mainly from the outside and surrounding fortifications through guided tours with Yeoman Warders. It is worth checking tour availability before visiting to make the most of your time here.

The tower's walls are roughly 13 feet (4 meters) thick at the base and contain a vaulted chamber that once held significant prisoners across many centuries. This remarkable thickness was essential to keep high-value detainees secure.

Part of: Tower of London Castle

GPS coordinates: 51.50781,-0.07761

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:41