A perfect trip to London is never complete until you include a stop at the Tower of London.
Tower Hill is one of the most electric areas of the city. Always buzzing with tourists eager to see where a slew of notable Brits lost their heads, including Anne Boleyn. There are great vantage points to grab that perfect souvenir selfie with Tower Bridge in the background. If you have time to wait in the extensive queue, it’s worth it to sneak a peek at the Crown Jewels.
So let’s dive into one of the most unforgettable days on your London adventure!
Start your day at Tower Hill, perched on the north side of the Thames. It’s touristy, yes—but for good reason. Dozens of riverside restaurants offer coffee or breakfast with a front-row view of the iconic Tower Bridge.
Before heading south, carve out time to explore the Tower of London. The line to see the Crown Jewels? Long. But it was worth it. Seriously—don’t skip it.
The Crown Jewels are the stuff of legends. During a coronation, a monarch is decked out with:
Photo by Annie Spratt
Most of the current regalia dates back to Charles II. The originals? Melted down during the Oliver Cromwell era. So rude.
The jaw-dropper of the collection is the Cullinan I Diamond, a.k.a. the Great Star of Africa. Nestled in the scepter, this beast clocks in at over 500 carats. It’s basically a Fabergé egg on steroids.
The Tower of London is the only legit castle within city limits. Sure, there are palaces and cathedrals—but no other true medieval fortress in London proper.
Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, this place has seen it all: royal drama, rebellion, and a whole lot of beheadings. Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard lost their lives here, and many prisoners passed through the infamous Traitor’s Gate before meeting a similar fate.
Infamous inmates included Sir Walter Raleigh and Guy Fawkes. And don’t forget the mystery of the “Princes in the Tower,” who vanished here—clearing the way for Richard III. Basically, if these walls could talk, they’d have enough material for their own Netflix series.
So don’t just snap a few pics for Instagram. Take a moment to soak up the centuries of drama, tragedy, and royal tea.
Tower Bridge is just steps from the Tower itself and was recently voted one of the world’s most beautiful bridges by Architectural Digest. She’s a stunner.
You can visit the museum on the upper walkway, but honestly? It’s just an enclosed space with some historical displays you could Google. Skip it.
Instead, take the footpath across with your fellow adventurers. The views are unbeatable, and it’s a great way to stretch your legs without killing your feet.
Once you’re across the river, you’re officially on the South Bank. From here, follow the Queen’s Walk and stroll along the Thames toward The Shard—you literally can’t miss it.
But first, food.
Just a short walk from The Shard is Borough Market, an absolute gem. This is where locals go for fresh produce, street eats, and artisan everything. The open-air setup makes it perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local vibe. Grab a bite and fuel up.
Photo by Ludomił Sawicki
Then head to The Shard—London’s tallest building at just over 1,000 feet. That’s a smidge taller than the Eiffel Tower. The viewing platform is the highest in the city, offering panoramic views that are nothing short of epic.
Admission is about £28, and for an extra £15, you can toast the city with a glass of Moët & Chandon. Highly recommend it. The experience is sleek but not snobby, and you can easily spend an hour up there just taking it all in.
Photo by Fred Moon
Today is less about miles walked and more about moments absorbed. From royal jewels and dark history to sweeping skyline views, this day offers the full spectrum of London magic. Your feet might get a bit of a break—but your camera roll won’t.
Cheers to Day 3—and don’t forget to bubble up before bedtime! 🫧
