Homework Help: The Tower of London

Take them to the Tower! A row of cannons at the Tower of London.

Have you ever visited the Tower of London? It’s a great place to learn about history, and a fun day trip now the weather is improving. There are many famous stories about the Tower, some true, some probably not so true. It’s certain that the Crown Jewels are kept there, and years ago the Tower of London was used as a prison. But what about the ghosts said to walk around at night? Are you brave enough to visit and find out for yourself? The new and old architecture of London's skyline. Part of the Tower of London in the foreground and the modern Gherkin building in the background.

The Crown Jewels

The Crown Jewels are held under lock and key at the Tower, and people come from all over the world to see these dazzling gems. You can see crowns, swords, rings and much more if you visit the Crown Jewels, and in total there are 23,578 gems. A member of the Queen's guard; standing in front of the jewel house.

Because the Crown Jewels are so valuable, they are held in strong glass cases. Years ago, a man called Colonel Blood tried to steal the jewels. He squashed one of the crowns so he could fit it under his cloak and sneak away with it. Luckily, Colonel Blood was caught and the jewels were returned.

Beefeaters The Beefeaters; living quarters

Who are the people in blue and red uniforms and pork-pie shaped hats who guard the Tower of London? They are Yeoman Warders, or ‘Beefeaters’, and years ago they guarded prisoners at the Tower. These days, ‘Beefeaters’ help people find their way around the tower and act as tour guides. The nickname ‘Beefeater’ is thought to have come from the days when Yeomen Warders were partly paid with pieces of beef.

 

Money, Money, Money

For over 500 years, from 1279, the coins people used were made in wooden buildings at the Tower.

In the 1700s, clever new machines were invented to help ‘mint’ (or make) money. These new rolling mills and coining presses meant that the old wooden buildings weren’t really big enough to make coins anymore, so everything was moved out of the Tower and into buildings nearby.

 

The Ravens

Ravens are big, black birds with long, black beaks, and seveA raven at the Tower of London.n of them live at the Tower of London. They are looked after by the Ravenmaster, who feeds them and takes care of their home near Wakefield Tower.

The Tower of London has always been home to ravens, and it is believed that these birds keep England safe. Legend has it that the Tower will fall down if there are ever fewer than six ravens present.

 

Ghostly Goings On The Tower of London at night

Years ago the Tower of London used to be a prison and some say the Tower is haunted by people who were held there. It is said that Queen Anne Boleyn, who died at the Tower, walks the grounds at night as a ghost. Strange lights have also been seen after dark.