Jewel Tower is a small medieval landmark on Abingdon Street in Westminster, one of the few surviving parts of the original Palace of Westminster. Built around 1365 for Edward III, it was used to keep royal valuables and later served other purposes, including as a records office and a testing site for weights and measures. Inside, displays trace the tower’s history and the development of Parliament. Look for the spiral staircase, heavy stone walls and timber ceilings, then stop at the small on-site cafe for a drink.
A surviving part of the medieval palace
Jewel Tower was built around 1365 during the reign of Edward III. It formed part of the Palace of Westminster and was constructed to store the king’s valuables. Its early name, the King’s Privy Wardrobe, reflected that purpose. The stone building was designed to protect its contents, and a moat once surrounded it.
The medieval palace was largely replaced by the present Houses of Parliament in the 19th century. Jewel Tower survived the fire of 1834, along with Westminster Hall, and remains one of the few parts of the earlier complex still standing. Its position among later Westminster buildings gives a visit a direct connection to the site’s earlier history.
Inside the tower
The displays explain the building’s history and its varied roles after its time as a royal storehouse. It later housed records for the House of Lords and was used by the Department for Weights and Measures. Exhibits include historic objects and replicas, with information to help visitors follow the tower’s changes over time.
The interior is compact, with a spiral staircase connecting its floors. Thick stone walls and timber ceilings preserve the building’s medieval character. An English Heritage audio guide provides further context as you move through the displays. A small cafe on site has outdoor tables for a refreshment stop after the visit.
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How long do you need at Jewel Tower?
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes to explore the tower and its displays.
What can you see inside Jewel Tower?
The exhibits cover the tower’s history and changing uses. You can also see its spiral staircase, stone walls and timber ceilings.
Was Jewel Tower part of the medieval Palace of Westminster?
Yes. It was built around 1365 as part of the palace and is one of the few surviving buildings from that complex.
