Which Exotic Animals Were Kept at the Tower of London?

The royal practice of keeping all manner of exotic animals at the Tower of London was commonplace over the course of about 600 years, from the early 13th century until 1835. It began when King John first kept lions at the Tower around 1210. During the reign of his son, Henry III, a polar bear was added to the royal collection, a gift from King Haakon IV of Norway. Henry decided that the bear should be allowed to swim and catch fish in the River Thames, so every morning the animal’s Norwegian handler would march the tethered bear down to the river, and allow him to fish for himself. The bear would allow the handler to muzzle him for transport, and the handler was able to control the swimming bear with a long rope.

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!

• Interest in the Royal Menagerie began to fade in the early 1800s, and by 1830 the 300 or so animals living at the Tower were moved to the Zoological Society of London in Regent’s Park (now the famous London Zoo).
• The only animals that remain at the Tower of London today are its ravens, looked after by an official Ravenmaster, who regularly posts updates about the birds on a popular Facebook page.
• Thirteen galvanized wire statues of various animals -- from a family of lions to a troupe of baboons -- now commemorate the Tower’s most unusual inhabitants. They were created by artist Kendra Haste in 2010.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of exotic animals were historically kept at the Tower of London?

The Tower of London was once home to a menagerie of exotic animals, including lions, polar bears, and elephants. These animals were gifts to English monarchs from foreign dignitaries, symbolizing power and prestige. The menagerie began in the early 1200s and lasted for over 600 years, evolving into a public spectacle before its closure in the 19th century.

How did the Tower of London acquire its exotic animals?

Exotic animals were acquired by the Tower of London primarily through royal exchanges, gifts from foreign rulers, and as tributes. For instance, records indicate that King Henry III received three leopards from Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, while an African elephant was gifted by Louis IX of France, showcasing the diplomatic significance of such exchanges.

What was the purpose of keeping exotic animals at the Tower of London?

The exotic animals at the Tower of London served multiple purposes. They were symbols of royal power and majesty, tangible evidence of a monarch's wealth and influence. Additionally, they provided entertainment and fascination for the public, and were subjects of curiosity and study for naturalists and scholars of the time.

Were there any incidents involving the exotic animals at the Tower of London?

Yes, there were several incidents involving the exotic animals at the Tower of London. For example, the polar bear, which was allowed to fish in the Thames while tethered to a rope, sometimes caused a stir. There were also instances of animals escaping and harming people, leading to growing concerns about public safety over time.

When did the Tower of London's menagerie close, and why?

The Tower of London's menagerie was closed in 1835. The decision was influenced by concerns over public safety and the welfare of the animals. The remaining animals were transferred to the newly established London Zoo in Regent's Park, which was better equipped to care for them and allowed for more humane conditions.

Can visitors still see evidence of the exotic animals at the Tower of London today?

While the live animals are long gone, visitors to the Tower of London can still see evidence of the historic menagerie. There are displays and sculptures commemorating the exotic animals once housed there, and the Royal Beasts exhibition provides insight into the lives of these animals and their significance to the royal court.