Early Access: Tower of London Opening Ceremony and Royal London

London’s Historic Highlights in One Morning: Early Access Tower of London & Royal Westminster Tour

Imagine stepping into London’s most iconic sights before the crowds arrive. For around $124, you get a four-hour tour that combines early access to the Tower of London, a captivating opening ceremony with a Beefeater, a guided walk through Westminster, and a scenic Thames river cruise. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience promises both a deep dive into history and some fantastic photo opportunities.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: First, the early access to the Tower of London means you get to see the Crown Jewels in peace, and the opening ceremony adds an extra layer of regal charm. Second, the combination of walking and cruising allows you to appreciate London’s sights from multiple perspectives—on foot, from the river, and up close.

A potential consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, hills, and stairs, so comfortable shoes are a must. While the tour starts early, it’s perfect for those who want to beat the crowds and make the most of their limited time in London.

This tour suits travelers who love history, want to skip the lines, and enjoy a variety of experiences in one go. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a quick overview, you’ll find plenty to savor here.

Key Points

• Early access offers a less crowded, more intimate view of the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels.
• The guided walking tour of Westminster covers all the major sights with engaging commentary.
• The Thames river cruise provides a relaxing perspective on London’s landmarks from the water.
• The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who makes history come alive.
• Comfortable shoes and moderate physical fitness are recommended due to walking over uneven surfaces.
• The tour is best booked in advance—on average, travelers reserve about 72 days ahead.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting at the Tower of London: A Historic Fortress Without the Crowds

The tour kicks off at the official ticket office at Tower Hill early in the morning. Here, you meet your guide—often described as knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous—who gives a quick introduction to what’s ahead. The highlight is the VIP early access to the Tower, which many reviews note as a stroke of genius.

Once behind the gates before the massive crowds arrive, you get to explore the White Tower, home of the armour of Henry VIII and the royal artifacts that tell stories of England’s kings and queens. You can walk at your own pace, soaking in the historic atmosphere and snapping photos without throngs blocking your shot.

Your guide often highlights details, like the significance of Traitors Gate or the stories behind the ravens, adding a layer of storytelling that makes history stick. The opening ceremony is a special treat—an engaging, almost theatrical event led by a Beefeater, welcoming visitors in a way that many travelers find charming and memorable.

The Crown Jewels: An Unmissable, Crowds-Free Experience

After the initial exploration, you’re invited to join the opening ceremony, which is an exclusive moment to see the Crown Jewels before the masses arrive. The 15-minute segment is often described as “magical,” with lively and clever commentary from the Beefeater.

Seeing the Crown Jewels in this quiet period means you can appreciate their magnificence without the usual crush of visitors. Many reviews mention how this early viewing is a highlight, with one guest calling it “a very clever Beefeater who welcomed us.”

Thames River Cruise: A Different View of London’s Landmarks

Next, the tour switches gears—literally—with a 30-minute boat ride along the Thames. The river cruise, often praised for its relaxing pace and stunning vistas, takes you past iconic sights like Tower Bridge, Shakespeare’s Globe, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Bridge.

Your guide joins again on the boat, pointing out landmarks and sharing stories that you might not catch from land. Several reviews mention how much this water perspective enhances the experience, giving a sense of the city’s scale and grandeur from a different angle.

Westminster: An Architectural & Cultural Treasure Trove

Disembarking at Westminster, the tour continues with a guided walk through some of London’s most renowned sites. You’ll get a quick look at Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and learn about their history and function.

The guided portion includes a brief stop at Westminster Abbey, where your guide provides a fascinating overview of its importance—covering everything from royal coronations to famous burials. Many reviewers rave about guides who are both informative and humorous, making these stops lively and engaging rather than dry history lessons.

From Horse Guards to Buckingham Palace: A Royal Walk

The tour then moves along the Whitehall area, passing Horse Guards Parade and taking photos with the mounted cavalry. Outside, you’ll get a glimpse of St. James’s Palace, the oldest royal residence still in use.

The highlight is Buckingham Palace, where you’ll see the iconic façade and hear stories about British monarchy without the crowds that typically flock here later in the day. Although admission to the Palace isn’t included, standing outside and absorbing the royal atmosphere is a treat in itself.

What Visitors Are Saying: Authentic Perspectives

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and ability to keep the tour lively. One notes that their guide, Babs, shared “tons of insider British knowledge,” making the experience feel special. Others mention that the early start helped avoid the crowds and made seeing the Crown Jewels in peace a magical moment.

Many guests highlight the value for money—getting access to so many landmark highlights, combined with fast-track entry and expert commentary, feels like a good deal. The mix of guided exploration and free time allows travelers to personalize their experience, and the boat cruise adds a relaxed, scenic element to the day.

A few though, express disappointment—most notably one reviewer who found the tour “very average” with not very engaging guides. But these comments are in the minority, and most agree that this tour is a must-do for first-time visitors.

The Guides: Making History Fun

Several reviews emphasize the importance of a good guide. The guides are described as friendly, humorous, and knowledgeable, making history accessible and entertaining. Whether it’s Jo, Amber, or Babs, their ability to mix facts with fun stories keeps the group engaged.

This tour’s success often hinges on the guides’ skills—so if you’re fortunate enough to get one of the top guides, you’ll likely walk away feeling you’ve learned more than just the typical tourist facts.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes—there’s a lot of walking, often over uneven surfaces or cobblestones.
• Book in advance, especially in peak seasons; most travelers reserve their spot about 72 days ahead.
• Arrive early at the Tower to enjoy the VIP experience and avoid the crowds.
• The tour ends around Buckingham Palace, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• Food and drinks aren’t included, so consider bringing snacks or planning a meal afterward.
• The tour is guided in English, and service animals are allowed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs eager to see the Crown Jewels without the crowds, and first-time visitors wanting a rundown of London’s key sights. It suits those who enjoy a mix of walking, cruising, and storytelling, and are comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Travelers looking for a value-packed experience that combines history, architecture, and scenic views will find this tour a practical and fun way to spend a morning in London.

The Sum Up

In just four hours, this tour packs an impressive punch—covering the Tower of London, the Crown Jewels, a scenic Thames cruise, and major landmarks in Westminster. The early access and guided commentary transform a typical sightseeing day into an engaging, memorable experience that feels both exclusive and authentic.

The combination of expert guides, well-planned itinerary, and peaceful early access makes this tour stand out as a great value for travelers who want to make the most of limited time. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning stories behind the stones and prefer a personal touch over self-guided wanderings.

If you’re visiting London for the first time or want an efficient way to see the highlights without the crowds, this tour offers both quality and convenience. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, book ahead, and get ready for a morning filled with history, stunning views, and a touch of royal magic.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves moderate walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and some hills. If you’re comfortable with that, it’s a great choice.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers early access to the Tower of London, the opening ceremony, the guided walking tour of Westminster, and the Thames river cruise.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy a meal after the tour.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, with about two hours at the Tower, a 15-minute ceremony, a 30-minute boat cruise, and guided walks through Westminster and surrounding landmarks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the amount of walking and uneven surfaces involved.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention traveling with teenagers who enjoyed the tour, especially since guides make the stories engaging. It’s best suited for those who can handle the walking and are interested in history.

This tour offers a well-rounded, detailed way to experience London’s most beloved sights, with the added bonus of beating the crowds and gaining insider knowledge. For travelers who want both convenience and a touch of royal splendor, it’s a smart choice.