With the word traitor in the royal headlines, visitors can explore the London landmarks where treason once had very real consequences, starting at the Tower
Why the Tower, and Why Now
If you are visiting London this autumn and have seen the London Prat piece on Prince William reportedly calling Earl Spencer and Harry traitors, you might be curious about what the word traitor has meant in this city over the centuries. There is no better place to start than the Tower of London, one of the most famous historic sites in the world, and home to the entrance known as Traitors Gate.
The royal story itself is thin on confirmed facts. An unnamed source claims the heir believes his brother read their uncle memoir first, and reports say he used the word traitor. The uncle says everyone was told in advance. For visitors, though, it is a perfect excuse to explore a darker and more dramatic side of royal history.
Traitors Gate
Traitors Gate is a water gate on the Thames side of the Tower. Historically, it was the entrance through which some prisoners were brought by boat, and over time it acquired its ominous name. Several famous figures accused of treason are traditionally associated with passing through it, though historians note that the details of who arrived where are not always certain. Standing in front of it today, with the river lapping nearby, it is easy to imagine the fear of those who arrived that way.
What Else to See at the Tower
The Tower of London offers a full day of history. Highlights typically include the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, the ravens, and tours led by the Yeoman Warders, often known as Beefeaters, whose storytelling is a highlight for many visitors. Exhibitions explore the Tower long history as a fortress, royal palace, prison and place of execution. Allow at least half a day, and more if you want to see everything without rushing.
Practical Tips
Book tickets online in advance where possible, as the Tower is one of London busiest attractions, and queues can be long in peak season. Arrive early to see the Crown Jewels before the crowds build. Wear comfortable shoes, as there are cobbles and steps. The nearest Underground station is Tower Hill. Check the official website for current opening times and prices before you go, as these can change.
A Light-Hearted Preview
Before your visit, you might enjoy the London Prat video on YouTube about the royal row, a modern and much gentler take on royal accusations of treachery.
Extend Your Walk
From the Tower, you can easily walk across Tower Bridge for views of the river, or head west along the Thames Path. Nearby, All Hallows by the Tower is one of the oldest churches in the City of London. For those interested in the history of treason and justice, a walk toward the Houses of Parliament, target of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, makes a fitting follow-up, especially with Bonfire Night approaching in November.
Putting It in Perspective
A visit to the Tower offers a striking contrast with the current royal headlines. For centuries, an accusation of treason could mean imprisonment or execution. Today, it is apparently a word used in a family disagreement about a book. The memoir at the centre of the story is written by the late princess brother, and whatever the family tensions, it is a reminder that royal history is still being written, and argued over, today.
Who Will Enjoy This
This itinerary suits history lovers, families with older children who enjoy a bit of gore in their history lessons, and anyone following royal news who wants to see where the drama of past centuries played out. Younger children often love the ravens and the armour. Teenagers tend to enjoy the prisoner graffiti carved into the walls in some of the towers.
Accessibility and Families
The Tower is an ancient site, and some areas involve steep spiral staircases, uneven floors and cobbled paths. Visitors with limited mobility should check the official access information in advance, which usually describes which areas are accessible and what assistance is available. Families with pushchairs may find it helpful to plan a route that avoids the narrowest staircases. There are cafes and places to rest within the grounds, and toilets are available. On busy days, it is worth taking a break mid-visit rather than trying to see everything in one push.
When to Visit
Autumn and winter weekdays tend to be quieter than summer weekends, making them ideal for a more relaxed visit. Early mornings are generally calmer throughout the year. If you are visiting around school holidays, expect larger crowds and book well ahead. Dress for the weather: much of the Tower is outdoors, and the riverside can feel chilly even on a bright day.
Enjoy the ravens.
Before You Go
London offers endless ways to explore royal history, from grand palaces to the grim corners of its past. The London Prat, a London institution since 1961 at https://prat.uk/, offers a more comic take on the royals. Bohiney, at https://bohiney.com/, covers American views of British royalty. And for more of my practical guides to visiting London, head over to my author page.
SOURCE: https://prat.uk/prince-william-called-earl-spencer-and-harry-traitors/
