Walking Holidays & Outdoor Adventures at the Tower of London UNESCO World Heritage Site
A Fortress on the Thames — History, Heritage & Iconic Riverside Views
Where medieval stone walls rise beside the river, Crown Jewels gleam behind guarded doors, and a thousand years of stories echo through battlements overlooking one of the world’s great cities.
Standing at the heart of London, the Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that brings together Norman fortifications, Tudor intrigue, royal ceremony, and riverside life. Once a royal palace, armoury, mint and prison, its layered history makes it one of Britain’s most atmospheric places to explore on foot. The Tower’s location beside the Thames Path also makes it a perfect starting point for slow, scenic walks through the capital — from Tower Bridge and St Katharine Docks to London Bridge and the historic lanes of the City.
Walking here reveals surprising contrasts: quiet moat-side paths, ancient towers, bustling riverside viewpoints and some of the most iconic urban landscapes in the country. The wider area is easy to explore on foot, with gently connecting routes that also join several cycling-friendly riverside paths for travellers mixing walking with light outdoor adventure.
County / Region: London (Tower Hamlets)
Featured Trails & Walks
- Thames Path – Tower to London Bridge
A classic riverfront walk linking heritage quays, city viewpoints and historic wharves. - St Katharine Docks Loop
A peaceful circuit around the marina, with moorings, cafés and waterside boardwalks. - Tower Bridge to Bermondsey Riverside
Follow the river south for views of historic warehouses, cobbled paths and quiet urban green spaces. - City of London Heritage Walk
Wander through medieval lanes, Roman remains, churchyards and hidden courtyards just minutes from the Tower.
Adventure Highlights
- UNESCO-listed fortress with 1,000 years of history
- Riverside location directly on the Thames Path
- Iconic viewpoints of Tower Bridge and the City skyline
- Walking routes linking marinas, docks and historic districts
- Atmospheric alleys and riverside boardwalks ideal for slow exploration
- Access to gentle cycling-friendly riverside paths for mixed-mode adventures
- Tower Pier nearby for boat trips along the Thames
Explore the Area
- St Katharine Docks – A calm marina district with cafés, boat moorings and scenic waterside walks.
- London Bridge – Markets, riverside paths and historic warehouses a short walk west.
- The City of London – Ancient churches, medieval lanes and hidden courtyards waiting to be explored on foot.
- Wapping & Rotherhithe – Quieter riverside routes, cobbled streets and dockside viewpoints.