Hire Spaces at the Tower of London Brochure

Home , Board of Ordnance, Constable of the Tower, State crown

I Events at HM Tower of London Banquets, receptions and conferences

Englishmen build the Tower for a Norman king “ Many shires whose labour was due to London were hard pressed because of the wall that they built around the Tower.” Anglo Saxon Chronicle, 1097

II 1 1 An invitation to enjoy this historic and breathtaking venue For nearly 1,000 years the has mellowed into a venerable Yeoman Warders and the mighty Tower of London has host. Whatever event you are priceless Crown Jewels. stood in service of the monarch, planning, we proudly invite you You will get personal service anchored on the shore of the and your guests to enjoy the from an experienced and River Thames. Like a loyal sentry, amazing venues available for hire Letting down passionate events team, as well armed with powerful stone walls, at this World Heritage Site. as the distinctive atmosphere the fortress has repelled invasion Today, the Tower welcomes of an historic castle, one with and protected the kingdom while millions of people each year, as centuries of stories for your securing high-profile prisoners they seek out famous stories of guests to take away. and precious contents within. wing-clipped ravens, colourful our guard Over time this seasoned warrior

2 3 Nearly 1,000 years of siege, 1455-85 1649 1660 1845 ceremony, triumphs, tears, Rivals fight for control of Parliamentarians King Charles II is The Duke of Tower history blood and even bears help England. The Tower is a are victorious in the restored to the Wellington – Tower site of celebration for bloody Civil War English throne. New Constable and hero create the remarkable victors – King Henry VII and execute Crown Jewels are of the Battle of in a word? atmosphere you will holds feasts and Charles I. They made; they go on Waterloo – tournaments here – and organise a sale display and narrowly reinvigorates the experience inside these a place of suffering and of the King’s escape being stolen Tower. He drains the Eventful. ancient stone walls. execution for the possessions and in 1671 (see p19). moat, getting rid of defeated. melt down the its stench by making Crown Jewels. it a dry ditch. He also lays the foundation stone for the Waterloo Barracks. 1070s 1252 1270s After defeating the A ‘white bear’ The Medieval Palace English in 1066 at the (probably polar) is built by Henry III Battle of Hastings, joins the Tower’s and Edward I (see William the Conqueror menagerie, a gift from p22). While the king – a Norman – begins a the King of Norway. is in residence, his massive stone tower at Medieval kings medieval hall the centre of his London exchanged rare and operates much like a fortress (see p14). strange animals as never-ending party. diplomatic gifts.

1530s King Henry VIII breaks with 1747 1191 Rome and establishes the Many are injured as public Prince John attacks Church of England. The stands collapse at the the Tower while Tower’s population of execution of Scottish rebel King Richard the 1279 religious and political Lord Lovat. Around 112 Lionheart is on crusade. The Royal Mint is prisoners swells. Henry’s high-profile criminals were Richard returns in 1194 established here. The prisoners (and those of publicly executed at the and regains control. groat of King Edward I is subsequent monarchs) scaffold on Tower Hill in its the first type of coin carve graffiti into the walls history. struck at the Tower. of their cells. 4 5 A legendary reputation

Its larger-than-life characters, enduring traditions and amazing tales have made the The Tower secured Tower something of a the 4,700 gold, stronghold for powerful silver and bronze medals for the 2012 symbols of London. London Olympic Games, lending weight to its William the Conqueror Over 30 million people have seen reputation as the had a crucial purpose for the Crown Jewels here (see p12). ultimate safehouse. this now iconic tower The Imperial State Crown is perhaps (see p17) nearly 1,000 the most recognisable crown in the years ago: to strike fear world. On a certain day each year, in the hearts of when Parliament is opened, visitors Londoners, reminding will see a little notice in the crown’s them of his authority. showcase that says, ‘In use’.

The ravens occupy the South Oft-married Yeoman Warders Lawn as symbols of the Tower King Henry VIII (nicknamed ‘Beefeaters’) and enduring royal power. had two of his have guarded the Tower Legend says the kingdom and wives executed since the 15th century. Tower will fall should the ravens at the Tower. For hundreds of years ever leave the fortress. Queens Anne they have performed the Boleyn (second ancient ‘Ceremony of the wife) and Keys’, the official locking Catherine up of the Tower each Howard (fifth night – a tradition your wife) were both guests can witness by accused of arrangement. adultery.

The infamous Gunpowder Plotters spent time at the Tower for their failed Magnificent, shining suits of attempt on the life of King James I. armour belonging to English Guy Fawkes was held prisoner and knights and kings have been almost certainly tortured here. stored and displayed at the Imprisoned, Ambrose Rookwood Tower for over 500 years. and Everard Digby both carved their names in the walls.

6 7 Jewel House White Tower Martin Tower Royal Regiment Medieval Palace: Medieval Palace: New Armouries: New Armouries: of Fusiliers St Thomas’s Wakefield Banqueting Meeting suite Tower Tower suite

p11 p14 p18 p20 p22 p23 p24 p28 Capacity Capacity Capacity Capacity Capacity Capacity Capacity Capacity

Reception150 Reception250 Dinner12 Reception80 Reception40 Reception80 Reception300 Meeting100 suite 80 70 20 40 240 16 Dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner Boardroom 150 6 Lunch Syndicate room

Tower turf Powerful. Intimate. Inspiring. Functional. Versatile venues to suit any occasion. Call us on 020 3166 6226 to arrange a site visit.

8 9 Jewel House

Glittering Priceless Strong

10 11 Capacity Features 150 for reception – J ewel House receptions and 500 for private views private views of the collection Available for evening hire are a very popular complement and pre-opening to any Tower event – Knowledgeable wardens relate The space wonderful stories about the jewels No experience of the Tower is – Regalia has been re-presented complete without seeing the to mark Queen Elizabeth’s world’s most valuable array of Diamond Jubilee crowns, coronation regalia and – Enormous, priceless stones jewels. The fabled collection lies include the legendary Koh-i-nur, secure behind 2,000kg vault or ‘Mountain of Light’ doors, but before passing through guests can enjoy a reception in the spacious Hall of Monarchs.

Jewel House “ Yes, these are the real ones.” Answer to the most frequently asked question of the Jewel House Wardens

A Tower story Most of the gold and silver-jewel encrusted pieces on display are the objects used at the coronation of a sovereign. Some were created for Her Majesty The Queen’s coronation in 1953. St Edward’s Crown is considerably older – made in 1661.

12 13 Powerful White Ancient Tower Iconic

14 15 Capacity 250 for reception 80 for dinner Available for evening hire only

The space At the centre of this ancient fortress and World Heritage Site is its oldest and most recognisable building – the White Tower. The King’s Great Hall on the first floor is a truly special space for dinners and receptions, and a magnificent experience at night.

Features – A spectacular view awaits guests atop the wooden stairs, taking in the Tower complex and the River Thames, from Tower Bridge to the Shard – Adjoining rooms hold vast displays of armour belonging to English kings including Henry VIII and Charles I

“ Did Julius Caesar White build that place, my Lord?” Prince Edward, from Shakespeare’s Tower Richard III

A Tower story For many, the iconic White Tower is the ‘real’ Tower of London. Its famous silhouette is dominated by the ogee-shaped roofs King Henry VIII added to the turrets, part of his flamboyant preparations for Anne Boleyn’s coronation procession. Armour © Courtesy of theTrustees Board of of the Royal Armouries. 16 17 Capacity The space Features A Tower story 12 for dinner This cosy tower was once the – In fine weather guests benefit Security for the Crown Jewels has Available for evening hire storehouse for the Crown from access to a sheltered not always been as tight as today. Jewels. The Crowns and patio area or part of the In the 17th century, the shadowy Diamonds display inside reflects wonderful East Wall Walk ‘Colonel’ Thomas Blood’s attempt this history and makes it a – The Tower’s most intimate to steal them nearly succeeded. special venue for small, intimate venue, guests can dine beside The alarm was sounded by the son gatherings. Guests are just a few 12,314 diamonds of the elderly Jewel House Keeper steps away from fantastic views who’d been knocked unconscious of the rest of the fortress. by Blood’s thugs. Martin Tower

“ Ambrose Rooke Woode” Carved into the wall of the Martin Tower by Ambrose Rookwood, imprisoned here for his part in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605

18 19 Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington, praised his Fusiliers ‘who have so frequently been distinguished in this army’ after fighting at the Siege of Pamplona in 1813.

Royal Regiment of Fusiliers

Capacity The space Features A Tower story 80 for reception When this prestigious space – Excellent facilities including Constable of the Tower 70 for dinner is not hosting a regimental on-site kitchen and toilets George Legge founded the 40 for lunch function for the Fusiliers it is – Fine array of regimental silver Fusiliers in 1685. Their role was available for your important available to protect the Tower’s royal occasion. With splendid oil – Objects of interest include a guns. The Fusiliers were the first paintings of venerable field brass deck plate recovered regiment to be armed with an marshals and historic displays of from HMS Antelope, sunk in improved musket – a fusil – regimental colours, this refined 1982 in the South Atlantic, and giving them their name. venue also offers a wonderful regimental colours embroidered vantage point for the White by Queen Charlotte and Tower and the Waterloo her daughters Barracks. 20 21 Capacity Capacity The space Features Medieval Palace 40 for receptions 80 for reception This wonderful vaulted room – Adjoining Wall Walk wonderful Ancient spaces offering unbeatable 20 for dinner 40 for dinner was originally created as part for receptions and photos views of London’s 21st-century Available for evening hire Available for evening hire of Henry III’s lodgings and was – Replica canopied throne based riverside cityscape. Available May probably used by the King as a on 13th-century descriptions, The space private audience chamber. On one that Henry III would have to September a fine summer evening, guests sat in while holding court Built over 700 years ago, these chambers were spilling out onto the Wall Walk – Chapel with brilliant stained part of the Tower’s residential area. Receptions will enjoy spectacular panoramic glass windows is linked to the can be held in the unrestored hall, a fascinating views of the White Tower, Tower death of King Henry VI, archaeological record of the building’s history. Bridge and the River Thames. reputedly murdered here Dinners are held in the king’s colourful while at prayer bedchamber, with its grand fireplace, four poster bed and King Edward I’s oratory – the little ‘chapel over the water’. Features Wakefield – The larger hall is where kings once dined and entertained – Edward I’s bedroom faithfully re-created based on 13th-century records, objects, manuscript Tower illuminations and antiquarian drawings – The tower once looked out directly over the river, and spans the infamous Traitor’s Gate

St Thomas’s Tower

22 23 Venerable New Versatile Armouries Spacious

24 25 Capacity 300 for reception 240 for dinner 150 for lunch Day and evening hire available

The space This versatile and accessible space is suited for banqueting events, corporate conferences or any large function. Offering easy access to the Tower’s inspiring and ancient surroundings, it’s a great base for corporate awaydays and is often used together with other venues around the Tower.

Features – Immaculate kitchen facilities for large dinners and receptions – Conferencing equipment and technology available – Rugged, original wooden ceiling joists and pillars – Room décor accommodates a variety of room arrangements, styles and designs – Wheelchair access includes a lift

“A noble sight.” Samuel Pepys describes the Tower’s ‘new Banqueting great store-house’ in his diary, 1664 suite

A Tower story This large and elegant brick building was built in 1663-4 for the Board of Ordnance, a British government body created in the 15th century to design, test and produce armaments and munitions. The New Armouries was created as a store for military equipment and supplies after the recall of Civil War arms.

26 27 “A great experience in Capacity The space Features an excellent venue at Meeting suite 100 The Armouries’ second-floor – A V equipped, including data Meeting suite Boardroom 16 rooms are bright, modern and projection a great location!” Syndicate room 6 versatile, perfect for hosting – Delegates have free access to Day and evening hire available conferences or large meetings. public areas of the Tower The large central space during the day accommodates 100 delegates – Versatile main room can be theatre style, and the boardroom divided to create multiple and syndicate rooms offer spaces pleasant spaces for smaller – Disabled access via lift meetings.

28 29 Space specifications

Jewel White Martin Royal Regiment St Thomas’s Wakefield House Tower Tower of Fusiliers Tower Tower Capacity Capacity Capacity Capacity Capacity Capacity

Reception150 Reception250 Dinner12 Reception80 Reception40 Reception80 80 Dinner 70 Dinner 20 Dinner 40 Dinner

– G reat for receptions and tours – Great for dinners and – Great for intimate dinners – Great for formal dinners, – Great for summer receptions – Great for summer receptions before dining elsewhere receptions – H ot box or cold food as there buffets and cocktail receptions and dinners and dinners – Tours available before or after – Hot box or cold food only as is no kitchen – Pre-dinner receptions can be – Available May to September – Available May to September public opening hours there is no kitchen – Nearest toilets are in the Brick held in the museum inclusive inclusive – Usual closure time of 20:00 – Nearest toilets are in the Brick Tower, just outside and down – C onveniently located for – H ot box or cold food as there – Hot box or cold food as there extended upon request Tower, across the courtyard the stairs pre-dinner receptions in the is no kitchen is no kitchen – Easy access to toilets in the behind the Waterloo Barracks – Please note there is no Jewel House – Nearest toilets are in – Nearest toilets are in nearby Brick Tower – Please note there is no disabled access – Excellent on-site kitchen the Cradle Tower, along the Cradle Tower, along – Disabled access disabled access facilities Water Lane Water Lane – No disabled access, though – Please note there is no – Please note there is no access is only a few steps up disabled access disabled access

New Armouries: New Armouries: Banqueting suite Meeting suite Getting here

L t lo e y tre d Capacity Capacity S ’s h

c r

u et

s e HM Tower of London By tube or rail Car parking e r

h St c r

t n ot

e C ll e c F r wa a es

e oss i Pr u

e r q

r o Fenchurch t

t S Tower

w n

S i

Nearby underground The nearest car parking o

is on the River Thames Street c

i Gateway t

h R

ne ne

r l

e l

a m

e u E e

astch n

p s p

h a L A

stations are Tower Hill, facilities are a few minutes t

c L o e

a tr

o S

e k t

next to Tower Bridge. G in

r M M

c r C al

e hing y

a a o t R

Monument

a t q.

Tower

T e

r M S

o y

300 100 Monument, Bank and walk to the Tower Hill w e

r S in Hill

S r

Reception Meeting suite T

t ill London Bridge, as well car park on Lower Lo e H e r we r Towe r t T S Gloucester Ct. h am E d es r a St a r s e w t e Dinner Boardroom t y S 240 16 as the Dockland Light Thames Street. B m

Lo it we h h r fi Tha c el e d m a o g e y Railway. Nearest mainline s r a Stre d p i

e W 150 Lunch 6 Syndicate room p t r

A s

’ B

e e

stations are Fenchurch n g n i

r d o i a r

T h d h e B t Tower W St. Katharine n a Street and London Bridge. har r o f e K Docks .

w L t

o of London S T (main entrance) S t. K atha – Great for large banquets and – Great for conferences and rine ’s W a y

HMS drinks receptions corporate awaydays e Belfast g t River d e Hay’s i e r r Thames – Available for daytime or – Available for daytime or B t Galleria S r h e g w evening hire evening hire o T

City

– Excellent kitchen facilities on – AV equipment Hall

T h London o Contact us m site – Nearest toilets are within the as Bridge To S ole tr y e St T. 020 3166 6226 et re – Nearest toilets are within the venue et venue – Disabled access, including lift F. 020 3166 6211 – Disabled access, including lift E. [email protected] www.hrp.org.uk/HireAVenue HM Tower of London London EC3N 4AB 30 31 Giving history a future Historic Royal Places – Palace Icons By hosting your event at Every year, we entertain and engage venues to exclusive exhibition the Tower of London you’re not millions of visitors. Every day we are openings and supporters’ dinners. only contributing to the upkeep forming new relationships, as we For more information please and protection of this magnificent help people explore the stories of contact us on 020 3166 6321 or building and its splendid grounds, the five famous royal palaces in our email [email protected]. but also to the conservation care. At Historic Royal Palaces our We look forward to hearing of four other very special business is very much about Historic Royal Placesfrom – Palace you. Icons historic buildings. welcoming people, and creating surprising, enriching experiences Historic Royal Palaces is the they will never forget. Corporate gifts independent charity that looks If you are looking for an unusual after the Tower of London, So, whether it is sponsoring a and unique gift for your guest, Hampton Court Palace, blockbuster exhibition, lending may we suggest that you look to the Banqueting House, support to an award-winning Historic Royal Palaces for inspiration. Kensington Palace and Kew Palace. outreach or education programme All our products are inspired by our Our aim is to helpHistoric everyone explore Royal or gettingPlaces involved – Palacein one of our Icons five magnificent palaces, so we the story of how monarchs and corporate partnership schemes, you know you will find just the right gift people have shaped society in five can be sure we will welcome your for your event, whether you are of the greatest palaces ever built. employees and clients with the same searching for one special present panache we do our visitors and Your event directly supports this or entertaining a large number guests, while offering you exclusive mission, as we raise all our own of guests. benefits and opportunities not funds and count on the support found anywhere else. If you would like help in choosing Historicof our visitors,Royal members, Places donors, – Palace Icons gifts, our experienced team can sponsors and volunteers in our We have designed partnership discuss individual requirements. continuing work to conserve packages to help you access the We pride ourselves in offering these palaces and their stories royal palaces in ways that will best high quality products, unrivalled for future generations. meet your company’s aims. But you customer service and working will also receive a highly individual with all our customers’ varied range of benefits, tailor-made to suit In good company requirements to provide the your interests. We can inspire your Historic Royal PlacesWe are pleased– Palace to invite youIcons to complete gift service. employees with exclusive events, discover some of the benefits of private views and volunteering Please visit our website corporate partnership with opportunities. And we can help you www.historicroyalpalaces.com Historic Royal Palaces. build client relationships and extend or contact us on 020 3166 6857 your networks in a variety of ways – or [email protected] from the use of our breathtaking

Tower of Hampton Banqueting Kensington Kew Palace London Court Palace House Palace A hidden gem of a palace tucked away Breathtaking fortress Hosting magnificent One of London’s Where style meets among beautiful royal and iconic symbol of most desirable venues power, this elegant royal and unforgettable gardens a world city events since 1514 and home to the retreat enchants and irreplaceable surprises Rubens’ ceiling 33 SteersMcGillanEves Design 32 Contact us to arrange a site visit Tower of London events T. 020 3166 6226 E. [email protected] www.hrp.org.uk 34