English Heritage Book of the Tower of London by Geoffrey Parnell

History of the buildings

This history of the buildings of the Tower of London - one of England's most famous and popular tourist sites - shows how the monument has changed over the centuries.

Detailed excavations in the Tower

The author, Geoffrey Parnell, who has himself undertaken detailed excavations in the Tower, traces the development of the fortifications and the evolution of the palatial complex. He looks at the numerous functions the buildings of the Tower have been put to fortress, armoury, palace, prison, mint and even zoo - and the adaptations made to house them all. Incorporating the results of recent archaeological investigations and documentary research, and using plans, reconstructions, photographs and drawings, this book shows how each age has affected the appearance of the Tower and unlocks some of its architectural secrets.