Tower of London Opening Ceremony, Boat Ride & Changing of Guard

A half-day tour that packs in some of London’s most iconic sights—what’s not to love? For $115.31 per person, you gain early access to the Tower of London, cruise along the Thames, and get a choice between witnessing the Changing of the Guard or exploring Westminster with a guided walk. This tour is designed for travelers who want a well-rounded glimpse of royal history, impressive architecture, and lively city scenes without committing an entire day.

Two features stand out: first, the early access to the Tower of London means you’ll beat most crowds, giving you a quieter, more intimate experience. Second, the option to swap the Guard change for a comprehensive walking tour of Westminster allows for flexible interests—whether you thrill to the pageantry of guards or prefer exploring the political heart of London.

A potential caveat? The tour’s schedule can shift depending on events, which might mean missing out on certain sights like Buckingham Palace. This flexibility is great if you’re open to changes but might be frustrating if your main goal is to see the Palace.

This experience suits history buffs, first-time visitors eager to see London’s highlights in a limited time, or travelers who want a mix of indoor and outdoor activities with local guides. If you’re looking for a structured yet authentic taste of London with professional guides, this tour offers good value—and plenty of memorable moments.

Key Points

• Early Access to the Tower of London: Beat the crowds and see the Crown Jewels before most visitors arrive.
• Thames River Cruise: Enjoy relaxing water views and commentary on landmarks along the riverbank.
• Flexible Options: Choose between watching the Changing of the Guard or exploring Westminster’s historic streets with a guided walk.
• Expert Guides & Headsets: Guides share insightful stories, and headsets ensure you don’t miss a word.
• Ideal Duration: About four hours, making it perfect for a balanced, half-day adventure.
• Limited Crowds & Small Groups: Tour operates with a maximum of 25 travelers for a more personal experience.

Exploring the Tour: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Starting Point: The Tower of London

Our journey begins early at 2 Tower Hill, where we’re greeted with VIP tickets that grant early access to this historic fortress. We loved the way arriving before the crowds transformed the visit into a more personal exploration of the White Tower, the Jewel House, and the grounds. The highlight is being among the first to see the Crown Jewels, an experience that many reviewers praised: “Getting there first meant no lines and an unhurried look at the dazzling crowns and regalia,” one traveler commented.

The opening ceremony—if you opt for it—is performed by the Yeoman Warders, and it involves the unlocking of the doors—a ritual that adds a theatrical touch to the history. However, note that any sightseeing inside the Jewel House is off-limits during the visit, as security regulations prohibit guides from accompanying guests inside. Still, you’ll get plenty of time to wander and absorb the atmosphere, with some reviewers mentioning they had enough time to take pictures with a Beefeater or learn about the ravens guarding the Tower.

One of the most appreciated aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guides, like Jo and David, who share stories that range from the Tower’s grim days as a prison to amusing tidbits about royal legends. Some noted that the timed schedule might feel rushed if you’re a history enthusiast eager to see everything, but overall, the early start provides a more peaceful experience.

Cruise Along the Thames

Next, the boat ride on the Thames offers a refreshing change of pace. Sitting on the water, you get a different perspective of London’s cityscape, with views of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and other historic sites. The commentary, delivered via headsets, was praised for being clear and informative, ensuring you could always hear the guide’s insights.

Travelers loved the relaxed vibe aboard the boat, which also serves as a convenient way to cover more ground without walking. It’s a good way of connecting the historical dots your guide provides from the Tower to Westminster, or to prepare you for the next part of the tour.

Your Choice: Changing of the Guard or Westminster Tour

Depending on the day, you can opt to witness the Changing of the Guard, a colorful, precise ceremony showcasing British military tradition. The event typically lasts about 45 minutes and is free. Travelers who chose this option remarked on how impressive the military precision and pageantry were, with one saying, “Seeing the guards change at Buckingham Palace was a highlight—something I’d recommend to anyone visiting London.”

Alternatively, you might prefer the guided walking tour of Westminster. Here, your guide takes you through the political and royal heart of London, sharing stories about Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament. This part provides a deeper understanding of British governance and monarchy, with some reviewers noting that their guides went beyond the obvious sights to reveal lesser-known stories.

The Westminster walk lasts about an hour and ends outside Buckingham Palace, where you have time to snap photos of the iconic façade. Many visitors appreciated the chance to explore the city’s history in this vibrant neighborhood, especially when guides pointed out hidden corners and shared inside stories.

Finishing Up at Buckingham Palace

The tour wraps up outside the Palace, giving you a chance to take photos and soak in the view. It’s a fitting end to a packed four hours—especially since some reviews mention that the tour’s timing sometimes limits the amount of time spent at each site, but the overall experience remains rewarding.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the early access to the Tower of London is a real game-changer. It’s the best way to experience the Crown Jewels and the historic fortress with fewer crowds and more space to walk and absorb the atmosphere. Several reviews highlight how this benefit elevates the experience—“Getting in first meant no lines and a peaceful visit,” one reviewer noted.

Second, the combination of outdoor water travel and guided walking makes for a dynamic day. The Thames cruise offers leisurely views and interesting commentary, creating a relaxing break from walking. Many travelers appreciated the expert guides, like Louise and Rob, who kept the stories lively and engaging, making history come alive.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

A key point to consider is the schedule’s flexibility. Some reviews mention that, due to special events or holidays, visitors might miss certain sights like Buckingham Palace or the changing of the guards. While the tour tries to adapt, these surprises can be disappointing if your main goal is seeing specific ceremonies or locations. The tour description notes that if the Guard ceremony isn’t available, you’ll enjoy a walking tour of Westminster instead, which is also a strong highlight.

Plus, some travelers found the crowds at the Crown Jewels a bit overwhelming, despite the early start. If you’re particularly keen on avoiding crowds at popular sites, arriving early really does help, but it’s not a guarantee for complete solitude.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to London’s key sights in a manageable four-hour window. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the Crown Jewels, Westminster, and Buckingham Palace without dedicating an entire day.

It’s also ideal for those who appreciate guided insights—the guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling. If you’re a history enthusiast or enjoy authentic local perspectives, this tour offers a thoughtful, engaging experience.

Finally, it’s well-suited for travelers who want a small-group experience—the cap of 25 travelers ensures a more personal and flexible atmosphere. If your preference is for a tour that balances structured sightseeing with opportunities for questions and photos, this one checks many boxes.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Value of Early Access at the Tower of London

We loved the quiet atmosphere that comes with arriving before the general crowds. The VIP tickets allow you to explore the grounds at a relaxed pace, and you’ll have more time to appreciate key artifacts like the Crown Jewels—a favorite among visitors. Several reviews echoed this sentiment: “Getting there first meant no lines and an unhurried look at the dazzling crowns.”

While inside the Jewel House, you might find the security regulations limiting, but the overall experience of being among the first visitors adds a special touch. If you’re a photo lover, capturing the Tower’s medieval architecture without throngs of people is worth the early wake-up call.

The Thames Cruise: Views and Commentary

The boat ride is more than just a scenic respite. It’s an efficient way to cover a lot of London’s famous sights in a short time. On board, the headsets work well, ensuring that everyone can hear the guide’s commentary. Passengers consistently mention how relaxing and informative this part of the tour is—“A great way to see the city from a different perspective,” said one traveler.

The river journey also serves as a visual guide to the later walking portion, orienting you to the major landmarks spread along the Thames, which your guide will point out and explain.

Westminster and the Changing of the Guard

Choosing between the Guard ceremony and the Westminster walk depends on your interests. The guards’ changeover is a traditional spectacle, filled with discipline and ceremony. Many reviews praise its military precision and theatrical pomp, making it a highlight for visitors seeking classic British pageantry.

The Westminster walk offers a more detailed exploration of London’s political and royal history, with guides revealing little-known stories and hidden corners. The tour concludes outside Buckingham Palace, giving you a perfect photo opportunity and a sense of closure.

The Overall Experience and Reviews

The consensus from reviewers is that guides truly make the experience. They’re described as knowledgeable, engaging, and humorous. For example, one reviewer noted, “Louise was the perfect guide—knowledgeable, kind, and funny.” Others highlighted how guides helped navigate crowds and made kids feel included, enhancing the overall value.

A few critiques mention that timing can be tight, or that certain sites are not as accessible as hoped. One reviewer felt they missed the changing of the guards because of schedule changes, illustrating how external events can impact plans. However, the tour’s flexibility to substitute a Westminster walk ensures you still get a quality experience.

Price and Value

At just over $115, the tour offers a lot of value—combining early access, a river cruise, expert guides, and multiple highlights in four hours. While it isn’t the cheapest option available, the convenience and quality make it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a curated, rundown of London’s royal and political heart.

Final Thoughts

This tour is a smart choice for travelers who want to maximize their time in London without feeling rushed. The combination of early access, scenic boat rides, and guided insights makes it both practical and engaging. Its emphasis on small groups and professional guides ensures a personal touch that enhances the experience.

While schedule changes due to ceremonial or national events can alter the planned itinerary, the tour’s core attractions—Tower of London, Thames cruise, Westminster, and Buckingham Palace—remain compelling. The flexibility of options allows you to tailor your experience based on your interests, whether you’re captivated by royal traditions or political history.

If you value well-organized, insightful tours with a good dose of authenticity, this experience stands out as a solid choice for your London itinerary. It’s best suited for first-time visitors, history buffs, or anyone eager to see London’s highlights efficiently, comfortably, and with a local guide’s perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point at 2 Tower Hill and ends outside Buckingham Palace.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, making it suitable for a half-day plan.

Can I choose the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, if the schedule allows. Otherwise, you will enjoy a guided walking tour of Westminster.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that guides are good at engaging kids, and the small group size helps keep it manageable.

What should I wear?
Comfortable footwear is recommended as there’s quite a bit of walking, especially at Westminster and inside the Tower.

Are tickets included?
Yes, VIP early-access tickets to the Tower of London, boat ride, and the tickets for the Guard or Westminster tour are included.

Will I see the Crown Jewels?
Yes, arriving early allows you to see the Crown Jewels with fewer visitors around, providing better photo opportunities.

What if the scheduled sights are closed?
External events or holidays might disrupt certain parts of the tour, but the guide will adapt with an alternative activity, like the Westminster walk.

This tour offers a great blend of history, ceremony, and scenic views—perfect for travelers wanting to tick off London’s essential sights in a single, engaging outing.