1 / 3Royal Armouries
📍 London, Greater London
The White Tower at the Tower of London houses the Royal Armouries' flagship London collection, including the Line of Kings — a 350-year-old exhibition of royal armour on life-like wooden figures. Strongest for post-1450 plate armour.
It is an important exhibition space showcasing the history of British royal weaponry and armor. Its origins date back to the 16th century, when weapons and armor were primarily used as symbols of the monarch's authority and military power. The White Tower itself, built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, is a Norman-style fortress that has played a significant role in British military history. The Line of Kings, first displayed in the 17th century, features an impressive array of royal suits of armor and horse-mounted displays arranged in a striking formation. Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits, where they can touch replicas of weapons and armor or explore the collection through related video games, providing an immersive historical experience.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children aged 7 and over who are drawn to knights, history and the visual drama of full plate armour. The Line of Kings is the standout experience. Families specifically interested in medieval armour from before 1450 will find the collection focused elsewhere — the strength is Tudor and later periods.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →383 Google reviews
Seokjin Ham
a year ago
“It is an important exhibition space showcasing the history of British royal weaponry and armor. Its origins date back to the 16th century, when weapons and armor were primarily used as symbols of the monarch's authority and military power. The White Tower itself, built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, is a Norman-style fortress that has played a significant role in British military history. The Line of Kings, first displayed in the 17th century, features an impressive array of royal suits of armor and horse-mounted displays arranged in a striking formation. Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits, where they can touch replicas of weapons and armor or explore the collection through related video games, providing an immersive historical experience.”
T.H. Gartshore
a year ago
“@ct_photography_leeds (Instagram) I had a great time here whilst visiting the tower of London. It's somewhere where I always wanted to visit. It's full of history from over the many years All the staff were nearby to help answer any questions you may have. Well worth the look in. It's a lot better than the one in Leeds where I live. Overall I'll give it a 5*”
Ian Jenkinson
3 months ago
“Impressive display with plenty of information signage to interpret the exhibits. Best to visit either very early or late in the day to avoid the crowds and get a good view of the armour”
Sanjay Gupta
a year ago
“The White Tower showcases the historic and world-class Royal Armouries collections, including the 350-year-old exhibition, Line of Kings, as well as other treasures. There are many unique and extraordinary arms and armors on display, Historic armors were displayed on life-like wooden figures, including those of Henry VIII, Charles I ,and later James II, in a parade of beautifully carved horses. There are many other rare and superbly crafted pieces made for noblemen as well as common soldiers. The Royal Armouries have always featured extraordinary curiosities - discover the armours of the 'Giant', the 'Dwarf', and the gift from the 'Great Mogul'. The White Tower was built to intimidate the unruly citizens of London, as well as to serve as a warning sign to potential invaders. The Tower now hosts the collection of the Royal Armouries, and the over-300 years old Line of Kings exhibition, which includes the armour of the Kings of England, and their horses The White Tower is at the Tower of London, located within the walled City, once the Palace of Kings and Queens. No matter which angle you look at the White Tower, its history is unbelievably impressive, too.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
The Royal Armouries collection in the White Tower spans royal arms and armour from the 16th century onward. The Line of Kings exhibition presents historic armour on wooden horse-and-rider figures in a continuous display that has existed in some form since the Stuart era. Information signage throughout the galleries is detailed. Staff are stationed throughout and available to answer questions.







