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The Tower of London was Originally Not a Prison

The Tower of London was initially not built as a prison. Instead, it was built as a fortress around the White Tower. The latter was erected by William the Conqueror in 1066 on the River Thames as a fortress to protect London and be a gateway to the capital.

Over time, however, this fortress began being used for other purposes, including housing a royal menagerie, eventually becoming one of the most gruesome prisons where criminals and political rivals were sent to meet horrible fates.

The First Inmate at the Tower of London

In 1100, King Henry I ascended the throne. It was during his reign that the first prisoner was sent to the Tower of London. King Henry I incarcerated Ranulf Flambard in the Tower of London on extortion, embezzlement, and simony charges.

Flambard was the Bishop of Durham who had served the King's predecessor and brother, William Rufus, as a chief minister. He led an extravagant lifestyle and was widely hated by the public.

Flambard was a scapegoat for Rufus’ notorious government policies and financial extortions. He eventually landed in the Tower.

However, despite his confinement, the King allowed him to continue leading his flamboyant lifestyle and bring his servants to the Tower of London Prison. Flambard also received an allowance and enjoyed the best food in prison. He even brought along the finest wines and threw feasts.

Flambard was also plotting to get out of prison using his political connections during this time. When this plan didn't work, he decided to escape.

Escaping From the Tower of London Prison

Flambard’s luxurious lifestyle and the lax prison security worked in his favor, not only allowing him to lead a comfortable lifestyle but also enabling him to escape prison.

Flambard secretly smuggled a rope in a wine cask into the Tower and then got the prison guards drunk. Then, with the guards in an inebriated state, Flambard escaped by lowering himself down a large window, where his accomplices awaited with horses. Together, they fled England for Normandy, where Flambard was appointed as the chief advisor to Duke Robert.