How to Reach London Tower – Directions, Transport & Tips (2025)
Find the easiest ways to the Tower of London: nearest Tube and DLR stations, river services, bus links, airport routes, parking notes, accessibility, and time-saving tips for a smooth arrival.
Book Timed Entry + Crown JewelsQuick Overview
Location: Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB, on the north bank of the Thames beside Tower Bridge.
Closest stations: Tower Hill (District/Circle) · Tower Gateway (DLR) ·
Fenchurch Street (National Rail).
River: Tower Pier for Uber Boat by Thames Clippers to/from Westminster & Greenwich.
Good to know: Arrive 10–15 minutes before your slot; queues for the Crown Jewels are shortest early.
Best First-Time Route
Take the District/Circle line to Tower Hill, follow the signed exit to the Tower, cross the underpass and walk 3–5 minutes along the waterfront to the main entrance.
Scenic Alternative
Ride a river boat to Tower Pier. It’s a 2–4 minute walk to the gate with great views of the fortress and Tower Bridge en route.
Option 1 — Tube, DLR & National Rail
Tower Hill (District & Circle)
Fastest for most visitors. Signed walkway leads directly to the moat area in ~3–5 minutes.
Tower Gateway (DLR)
Useful from Docklands/City Airport. Exit toward Tower Hill and follow signs (~5–7 minutes).
Fenchurch Street (Rail)
2–6 minute walk via Dukes Place/Minories. Good if you’re arriving from Essex or the southeast.
Nearby Interchanges
Monument/Aldgate/Aldgate East are one stop or a 10–15 minute walk if you’re already on those lines.
Contactless & Oyster
Use contactless bank cards or Oyster for Tube/DLR/rail within zones. Daily/weekly caps can save money on multi-ride days.
Option 2 — River Boats, Buses & Walking
River Boat (Tower Pier)
Frequent boats link Westminster, London Eye, Bankside, Greenwich and more. Great views and step-free boarding at many piers.
Buses
Several routes stop around Tower Hill/Tower Bridge Road and Minories. Allow extra time at peak hours due to traffic.
Walking Routes
From London Bridge: ~15–18 minutes riverside via the Queen’s Walk and Tower Bridge. From Bank: ~20–25 minutes via Monument.
Cycling
Cycleways along the Thames make it straightforward. Use nearby Santander Cycles docks; dismount near gates.
Photo Tip
Approach across Tower Bridge for iconic views back to the White Tower and curtain walls.
Option 3 — From London Airports
Heathrow (LHR)
Elizabeth line to Farringdon/Liverpool St → Circle/District to Tower Hill. Piccadilly line is cheaper but slower.
Gatwick (LGW)
Thameslink to London Bridge → Tube to Monument/Tower Hill or walk across Tower Bridge (scenic 15–20 minutes).
Stansted (STN)
Stansted Express to Liverpool Street → Circle/District to Tower Hill.
London City (LCY)
DLR direct to Tower Gateway (no changes). Easiest airport-to-Tower route.
With Luggage
Choose Elizabeth line/Thameslink for more space. Stairs exist at some interchanges; lifts are signed on the network maps.
Driving, Drop-off & Parking
Congestion & ULEZ
The Tower lies inside both zones on most approaches. Check charges and hours before you drive.
Parking
Very limited near the site. Use off-street car parks around Tower Bridge, Minories or the City and walk 8–15 minutes.
Drop-off / Taxis
Ask for Tower Hill/Tower Pier drop-offs; short, well-signed walk to the entrance from either side.
Accessibility by Car
Blue Badge bays exist in the area but are limited. Check current City of London guidance before travel.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Arrival
Beat the Crowd
Book the first slot of the day or go after 15:00 on weekdays. Head to the Crown Jewels first, then explore the rest.
Step-Free Notes
Grounds are largely step-free, but towers have historic stairs. Ask staff for accessible routes and lift access where available.
Weather & Footwear
Parts of the site are exposed and cobbled—bring a layer/umbrella and wear comfy, grippy shoes.
Getting There Cheatsheet
Closest Stops
Tower Hill (District/Circle) · Tower Gateway (DLR) · Fenchurch Street (Rail) · Tower Pier (River).
Typical Times
Waterloo/Westminster → Tower Hill: ~12–18 min · London Bridge walk → Tower: 15–20 min via Tower Bridge.
Best Exit
From Tower Hill, follow signs for the Tower underpass; it drops you beside the moat path.
Tickets
Contactless caps fares automatically. River boats accept contactless but are priced separately.
Peak Hours
08:00–09:30 and 17:00–18:30 are busiest on weekdays. Avoid cross-City bus routes at these times.
Family Tip
Buggy-friendly via the riverside path; use baby carriers in towers with stairs.
Ready to Go?
Pick the route that suits you and book the right ticket—value timed entry, early access, or a combo with Tower Bridge or a cruise.
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