London: VIP Tower Opening Ceremony, Crown Jewels & Cruise

London: VIP Tower Opening Ceremony, Crown Jewels & Cruise offers a chance to explore one of England’s most iconic landmarks with a bit of a VIP twist. For about 2.5 to 3 hours, you’ll enjoy early access to the Crown Jewels, watch the historic Opening Ceremony, and take a guided walk through the Tower of London led by knowledgeable guides. As a bonus, you’ll get a flexible, one-way river cruise ticket to explore the Thames at your leisure later in the day.

What we love about this experience is how it combines early access—so you beat the crowds—and expert narration that makes the history come alive. The chance to view the Crown Jewels in peaceful surroundings is a real highlight, as is the opportunity to explore key historic sites such as the White Tower and the Bloody Tower without the crush. The inclusion of a river cruise adds a scenic, relaxing way to see more of London after your tour.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour involves a good amount of walking and is not suitable for those with mobility issues or strollers. Also, if you’re short on time, the shorter Regular Tower of London Tour might be a better fit, as it excludes the opening ceremony but still covers the main highlights.

This experience suits history enthusiasts, first-time visitors eager to avoid long lines, or anyone interested in seeing the Crown Jewels in a quieter setting. It’s also a great choice if you want a well-rounded visit with expert insights and a scenic cruise—making it a well-balanced package for a memorable day in London.

Key Points

• Early Crown Jewels Viewing: Beat the crowds and see the jewels without the usual rush.
• Expert Guided Tour: Insightful narration brings the Tower’s history to life.
• VIP Access & Opening Ceremony: Witness a historic military ritual before the general crowds arrive.
• Flexible Thames Cruise: Enjoy a one-way sightseeing boat ticket that you can use any day.
• Rich Historical Sites: Explore Tower Green, Bloody Tower, Torture Chambers, and the White Tower.
• Authentic Experience: Small groups and knowledgeable guides make for a more personal visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Getting there and meeting your guide is straightforward. The tour starts at 3 Tower Place, with a check-in 15 minutes early beside a large tree, across from the Tower’s West Gate entrance. Guides will be holding a green Walks sign, making them easy to spot. The meeting point’s proximity to the Tower and the Starbucks makes it convenient, especially for those arriving by Tube or public transport.

The main draw is the early access to the Jewel House, where the Crown Jewels are kept. Unlike the crowds that gather later in the day, you’ll get the chance to step inside in peace—an experience that many reviews highlight as a major perk. As one visitor noted, “Seeing the opening ceremony and getting early access made you feel like you received VIP treatment,” emphasizing how this adds value to what might otherwise be a crowded and touristy visit.

The Opening Ceremony itself is a fascinating military ritual, watched over by Yeoman Warders. It’s a historical tradition that marks the official opening of the Tower each day. Seeing it in a small group is a rare treat that many reviews mention fondly.

Following the ceremony, your guide will lead a comprehensive tour. Starting at the Execution Site on Tower Green, you’ll hear about some of England’s most notable nobles who met their ends there. Moving past the Bloody Tower, where Sir Walter Raleigh was imprisoned, and visiting the Torture Chambers, the tour offers a visceral taste of the Tower’s darker past. These stops are well-chosen, revealing the less-glamorous but equally fascinating side of Tower history.

The tour then takes you along the Tower walls, where you’ll get views of London, and inside the refurbished Edward I bedroom—a rare glimpse into royal living quarters. The resident ravens are also a fun detail, as they’re part of the Tower’s legendary folklore. The highlight is a visit to the White Tower, the central keep, which has been beautifully restored. Many reviewers loved this part, with one praising the “fascinating tour of a medieval castle.”

Post-tour exploration is flexible. You’re free to visit other Tower exhibits like the Beauchamp Tower or the Fusilier Museum at your own pace. The White Tower is a treasure trove of medieval arms, armor, and history, and many visitors say it’s worth extra time.

The river cruise ticket acts as a perfect wind-down or extension. It’s a one-way pass, which you can use on any day, from any pier. This flexibility means you could hop on later in the afternoon or even on a different day, depending on your schedule. The reviews indicate that travelers appreciate this added bonus, especially since it offers a scenic way to see London’s riverside landmarks.

Pricing and value are often points of discussion. While this tour is on the pricier side compared to self-guided visits, reviews consistently mention that the early Crown Jewels access, expert guides, and skip-the-line advantages make it worth the extra cost. As one reviewer put it, “It was well worth the cost and having to get up early,” especially for the VIP feeling and the time saved.

Group size and guide quality are also important. Many reviews praise guides like Paul, Charlotte, Gina, and Dominic—calling them “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “entertaining.” Smaller groups (about 6-8 people) mean more personalized attention, which enhances the experience.

Accessibility and walking are worth noting. The tour involves some moderate walking, and it isn’t suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. If mobility is an issue, you might want to consider alternative options.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a comprehensive, guided visit with early VIP access to the Crown Jewels, which most regular tickets don’t offer. The expert commentary and ability to avoid the biggest crowds make it a memorable and efficient way to see the Tower’s key highlights.

It’s particularly good for history enthusiasts who appreciate detailed stories, as guides often share anecdotes that bring the Tower’s past to life. The inclusion of the White Tower as a central feature offers an immersive look into medieval England.

Plus, travelers love the combo of a guided tour and a scenic river cruise. This combination offers both historical insight and a relaxing way to view London’s skyline from the Thames, giving the tour a well-rounded feel.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This VIP tour primarily attracts those who value early access and skip-the-line advantages. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience the Crown Jewels in peace and for those interested in a full, guided overview of the Tower’s many historical facets.

It’s also suitable for first-time visitors who want a structured visit that covers the major sites without feeling rushed. However, it’s not ideal for people with mobility issues or strollers due to the walking involved.

On top of that, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a shorter visit, the Regular Tower of London Tour might suit you better, as it’s about 2.5 hours and doesn’t include the opening ceremony.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves a good deal of walking and historic stories, many reviews mention that older children and teenagers find it engaging, especially with the guided commentary. However, it may not be suitable for very young children or strollers.

What time does the tour start?
Check availability for specific starting times, which typically range within the daytime hours. Arrive 15 minutes early at the designated meeting point to check in.

Are there any dress code restrictions?
There are no strict dress code restrictions, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Due to the walking nature, avoid heavy or uncomfortable footwear.

Can I take photos inside the Crown Jewels?
The tour includes access to view the Crown Jewels, but the rules about photography aren’t specified. It’s common for such exhibits to restrict photography, so look for signs or ask your guide.

Is this a small-group experience?
Yes, many reviews mention groups of about 6-8 people, which allows for a more personalized experience and easy interaction with the guide.

What if I want to explore more on my own?
After the guided tour, you’ll have time to wander independently inside the Tower, visiting additional exhibits like the Beauchamp Tower or the Fusilier Museum.

How flexible is the river cruise?
The cruise pass is valid for any day and any pier, offering flexibility. You can plan to use it later in the day or on a different day if you prefer.

What makes the early Crown Jewels access special?
It allows you to see the jewels and the opening ceremony with minimal crowds, a rare chance many reviewers say makes the experience feel exclusive.

To sum it up, the London: VIP Tower Opening Ceremony, Crown Jewels & Cruise tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of history, tradition, and scenic views. It’s perfect for those who want an insightful, less crowded visit to the Tower and enjoy a peaceful viewing of the Crown Jewels. The guided element ensures you won’t miss key stories, while the river cruise adds a relaxing touch to your day.

If you’re willing to splurge a little for a more intimate and comprehensive experience, this tour delivers good value through its early access, expert guides, and scenic extras. For history lovers, first-timers, or anyone seeking a memorable way to explore London’s most famous fortress—this tour ticks many boxes.