World heritage sites and archaeology in Tower Hamlets

The Tower of London is a world heritage site as well as being a grade I listed building. It is managed by Historic Royal Palaces who published a detailed management plan for the Tower of London in 2016.

Their management plan provides a detailed account of the tower’s history and significance. It also contains important and useful information regarding how the site is to be managed to safeguard its special character. It's essential reading for those considering development affecting the setting of the Tower. 

In addition to the Tower of London World Heritage Site, Island Gardens on the Isle of Dogs is included as part of the setting of the Greenwich world heritage site across the River Thames.  Historic Royal Palaces published a detailed management plan for the Maritime Greenwich world heritage site in 2014.

Tower Hamlets has been settled for a long time, and contains some very interesting archaeology.  Easily damaged and irreplaceable it is important that it is carefully managed and protected for the future.

Whilst significant areas of the borough are identified as having archaeological potential there are sites which are specifically recognised for their archaeological importance, these are scheduled ancient monuments. 

Scheduled ancient monument consent is required for works which affect these monuments.

The location of areas of archaeological potential and scheduled ancient monuments can also be seen on our interactive map. See the map user guide for guidance on how to use the interactive map.