A new display will explore the stories of the kings and queens who shaped and lived at the Tower of London, the households who served them and the world they lived in.
Scheduled to reopen on 23rd May, the Medieval Palace at the Tower of London will feature a permanent display of the royal apartments that hosted medieval kings and queens.
The exhibition will transport visitors to the 13th century through stories of London’s medieval past, hands-on interactive activities and new displays, which will include illustrations and objects on view to the public for the first time.
Charles Farris, public historian at Historic Royal Palaces, said: “The 13th century saw the Tower of London grow to become the magnificent landmark it is today, greatly influenced by the ambitions and personalities of Henry III and Edward I. This new display aims to immerse visitors in this fascinating period of history.
“We want to bring the Medieval Palace to life and introduce visitors to some of the fascinating people who lived and worked here. We look forward to visitors engaging with these stories for years to come, as we open this new permanent addition to the Tower’s visitor offer.”
What’s included in the Medieval Palace
Illustrations will tell the story of life in the palace and of the royal household on the road. The walls of the palace will feature recreated medieval textiles, culminating in Edward I’s bedchamber - which has been recreated using research from medieval accounts.
The display will also shares stories from the lives of less well-known individuals from the royal household, including Edward I’s laundress Matilda de Wautham, and John de Navesby, the keeper of the white bear at the Tower of London.
A number of objects will go on show in the Lanthorn Tower, including a portable altarpiece from the 13th century and silver coins minted at the Tower in the reign of Edward I. The coins will reveal insights into religion in medieval society, the Jewish history of the Tower, and the importance of the landmark as the home of the Royal Mint.
For the first time, a 13th century Seal Matrix from a knight of Edward I’s court, will be displayed alongside a gold and enamel 13th century pyx which is a small round container used to hold communion wafers made in Limoges, France.
Group visits to the Tower of London
The Medieval Palace is included with admission. Groups of 15 or more can take advantage of discounted admission for pre-booked and walk-up visits.
Groups can pre-book private tours of The Crown Jewels, behind-the-scenes tours led by a Yeoman Warder, as well as evening tours with an opportunity to see the Ceremony of the Keys, the securing of the gates for the night.
The Armouries Café is available for group dining and refreshments, including morning coffee and tea, hot and cold lunches and traditional cream teas.
For more information about visiting the Tower of London go to hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london.
