Here, Henry VIII had two wives executed, Sir Walter Raleigh was imprisoned for 13 years and during both World Wars spies were incarcerated. Nobody knows more about the history of the Tower than the Yeoman Warders who have guarded the fortress for centuries. The White Tower begun by William the Conqueror around 1080, is the entire castle of the Tower of London. It is home to the Royal Armories, the National Museum of Arms and Armor and the Museum of the Tower. In the Medieval Palace, every Saturday visitors can learn the warlike ways of King Edward I with presentations which examine the armor and equipment worn by his knights in the 13th century.
Children can feel the weight of real chainmail and help the costumed guides get ready for battle.
Throughout the year 2000 his cell will be opened to the public for the first time. The Ravens have been associated with the Tower since its beginning and can still be seen guarding their territories on the lawn by the White Tower. Legend has it that if the Ravens ever leave the Tower, or are destroyed, then the Tower will fall and the kingdom with it. Allow at least 2-3 hours for a visit. The Great British Heritage Pass can be purchased in the US before you travel and allows entry to more than 600 historic properties, castles and gardens throughout Britain, including half price entry to the Tower.