The Tower of London is the "must see" destination in London. I've been there a few times now, but what struck me this visit was how big the White Tower really is.
Built Circa 1080, it was one of William the Conqueror's pet projects. It really is massive - one of the first man-made mountains in London. If you think of what the rest of London's buildings were like at the time, the White Tower must have broadcast power, accomplishment, and attitude.
To rub in his conquest, William had the Tower built from especially imported French stone.
View from the outside. The moat used to be flushed by the Thames.
Officers!
Our "Yeomen Warder of Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, and Member of the Sovereign's Body Guard of the Yeoman of the Guard Extraordinary". Here he is taking delight in scaring little children.
Whilst it was hard not to giggle, he had the gun, and I did not.
Stonework detail in the chapel. Only 1000 years old.
Ancient corridors of power.
Ceiling detail.
Block and axe. Slightly used but in good condition.
In a spiral staircase. Claire conceded that the real thing was better than Harry Potter.
Beefeater in a hurry.
We didn't see the Crown Jewels as the queue was way too long.
Claire being escorted from the premises. Stand up straight, girl!
I did ask if was OK to take a photo. He said yes.
Next stop, Westminster Bridge.
And the houses of Parliament.
the tower of london was one of my most happy visits when I was there. Years and years of reading about it couldn't really prepare me for it. Love this post!
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