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The Tower of London is not only one of the oldest and most famous buildings in England, but it is also an important part of the country's history. For centuries, the Tower has been a royal residence, prison and fortress, serving as a powerful symbol of British monarchy - and now a top tourist attraction.
Built in 1066 by William I (William the Conqueror) after he conquered England, the Tower has been home to kings and queens, political prisoners and exotic animals! Throughout history, the Tower of London played an important role in protecting the country and its citizens from danger. Of course it has also been a prison, where many enemies of the kings of old have been locked up - and some, like the Princes in the Tower, mysteriously disappeared.
Today it is a tourist attraction with many historical artifacts on display, including magnificent suits of armour and the Crown Jewels. If you are lucky enough to visit, children can explore the towers, walls and moats that were built for protection centuries ago. They can also imagine what life was like for those who lived, and were imprisoned, within these thick stone walls - many before meeting their end with the executioner!
The Tower of London's ravens have become iconic symbols of the Tower itself. Some people think that the legend of the ravens at the Tower might date back to the early 17th century, when King Charles II was concerned that superstitions about their absence would lead to disaster for Britain. Superstition said that "if the Tower of London ravens are lost or fly away, the Crown will fall and Britain with it." Other people think the legend was just a Victorian tall tale! Either way, to this day, there are usually between seven and nine resident ravens living in the Tower's grounds, which are now lovingly cared for by a dedicated Ravenmaster.
The Tower's ravens enjoy a life of luxury! They supplied with comfortable lodgings in Burrough's Court, an area specifically designed for them within the Tower walls, and they receive regular meals consisting of raw meat, mice, rats and grain from local suppliers. They receive daily check-ups from their Ravenmaster to ensure that they are healthy. Their wings stay clipped so that they won't wander too far away from home.
We have a whole section on Ravens to explore too.
Since this video was made, Merlina has sadly left the Tower.
Home to the crown jewels, the Beefeaters, and many royal prisoners in years gone past, the Tower of London is a majestic and intimidating London landmark! Kids can learn to draw their own Tower of London with this printable.
Print and colour in this detailed colouring page of the Tower of London, dating back to the Norman Conquests in 1066 and at times a palace, a prison and even a royal menagerie! The Tower is now home to the Crown Jewels and is one of the most popular tourist attractions of London.
Have you had a day out at the Tower of London? This simple colouring page of one of London's most popular tourist attractions is perfect for younger children.
Colour in the picture of the Tower of London on this postcard and then make a trip to the post box to send it! Its easy to make; just print it out and stick the two sides together.
The Tower of London has played an important part in England's history since Norman times. Here's a poster of this famous landmark for you to print and display.
Here we've got some printable story paper for kids to use in writing projects, with colouring page of the Tower of London, one of London's most famous landmarks. And of course all sorts of royals and famous people were imprisoned and even executed there over the years!
How will you use our Tower of London writing page? Perhaps to write about a day out, as part of a history project or to write a story set in the Tower?
