sgorces -- we got to the tower before it opened on a Sunday. We arrived about half an hour early so they were already selling tickets in a shop near the tower. Then everyone with tickets eventually had to line up about 10 to 15 minutes before the tower opened. I don't know that advanced tickets are really an advantage in this scenario. I do recommend Sundays because the city is easily navigated since the tube is so empty, although there may be some line closures to check for.

I think your 18 y/o will love the tower. It was definitely one of the highlights of the trip for me. It is a fascinating place and even when it is crowded it isn't stifling like a lot of other London attractions.

Take the advice that I got on the board and as soon as you get in run to see the jewels first to avoid a line. Next, we purchased the audio tour and took our time doing that. We didn't do the beefeater tour simply because it looked too crowded.

I am the kind of traveler that likes to experience new places and I rarely want to visit a place that I've already been, but I would go back to London a thousand times and I would certainly visit the Tower again. I feel the same about Kensington Palace and gardens and Hampton Court Palace.

Have a great trip!

bookmarking

bookmarking

ya know folks - when you book mark a 2.5 year old thread it sends current ones down the list and out of sight. It is MUCH better to e-mail the thread to yourself, or to save it to your favorites or whatever your browser calls saved urls . . . . . .

what means punting? i was reading a novel that is set in london, and...i thought punting was something untoward! sorry if i missed an earlier reference.>>>>

It can indeed mean something untoward.

Apart from the activity in boats punting/being a punter can also mean alternatively placing a bet or using a prostitute.

So be careful when punting!