Tower of London: Opening Ceremony & Early Crown Jewels Access

Discover the Tower of London with Early Access & Opening Ceremony
This tour offers a unique glimpse into one of London’s most iconic landmarks, combining a short but impactful guided experience with early entry to the Tower of London. Priced at $94.95 per person and lasting roughly 1 hour 15 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to beat the crowds and see the treasures in a more intimate setting. You’ll start your day with a visit to the historic fortress, witness the traditional Opening Ceremony, and enjoy exclusive early access to the Crown Jewels — all led by knowledgeable guides.

Two things we particularly love about this experience: First, the early morning access makes a significant difference — you get to see the Crown Jewels in peace while they’re still undisturbed by the crowds. Second, the stories shared by the Beefeaters add a personal, lively touch that you simply can’t get from a guidebook. However, a consideration is that some reviews mention initial difficulties locating the guide or issues with timing, so a bit of patience and readiness to adapt might be needed.

This tour suits history buffs, those visiting London for the first time, or anyone wanting the best chance to marvel at the Tower’s treasures without fighting the mass of day-trippers. If you value insider stories and a more relaxed, less crowded experience, this tour is a smart choice.

Key Points

• Early Access: Beat the crowds for a more relaxed view of the Crown Jewels and Tower.
• Opening Ceremony: Witness a centuries-old tradition that few visitors get to see.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Nicholas and Ana bring stories to life with humor and knowledge.
• Flexible Exploration: After guided highlights, you’re free to explore iconic sites on your own.
• Secluded Viewing: See the Crown Jewels, Traitors’ Gate, and Bloody Tower in a quieter setting.
• Small Groups: Typically limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Early Morning Arrival

The tour begins at 68 Lower Thames Street, a convenient spot in the heart of London, near public transportation. Arriving early means you dodge the typical crowds and get a head start on your exploration. When we took this tour, guides like Nicholas and Ana proved to be very knowledgeable, sharing engaging stories that made the history of the Tower come alive well before the usual rush.

The Significance of the Opening Ceremony

One of the most memorable moments is watching the Tower’s opening ceremony — a tradition that has persisted for centuries. The Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) perform a ceremonial key-handing-over, where the keys are symbolically handed to the tower’s guards, signifying the start of the day. Multiple reviews highlight how this adds a sense of gravity and authenticity, with some describing it as “a grand, historic moment.” It’s a rare spectacle that makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time.

Inside the Tower Before the Crowds

Once the gates open, the tour takes you straight inside, giving you early access to the Crown Jewels. This is often cited as the highlight — not just for the glittering crowns, scepters, and diamonds, but for the ability to see them without the throngs of travelers. Reviewers like StacyandAdam_S say, “Seeing the Crown Jewels without a crowd was so worth it.” You can snap photos of the dazzling collection in peaceful silence, with guides sharing insider tips on what to look for.

The Beefeaters’ Stories and Photo Opportunities

Your guide, whether it’s Lee or another expert, will entertain you with stories that aren’t in the typical guidebook. Many reviews praise guides for being “very knowledgeable and friendly,” making the experience lively and memorable. You’ll also have the chance to take photos with these legendary guardians, adding a fun, personal touch to the visit.

Exploring Iconic Sites

After the guided highlights, you’re encouraged to explore the Traitors’ Gate, the Bloody Tower, and the White Tower at your own pace. These sites are packed with tales of betrayal, execution, and royal intrigue, which guides often describe with a mix of humor and gravity. Visitors consistently recommend walking through Traitors’ Gate, imagining prisoners being brought through the dark waters of the Thames, or standing inside the Bloody Tower, pondering the fate of the princes.

The White Tower and Other Hidden Gems

The White Tower, built by William the Conqueror, remains the core symbol of Norman power. Inside, you’ll find displays of royal armor, weapons, and historical artifacts. Several reviews mention that exploring the White Tower on your own after the guided part makes for a well-rounded visit. It’s a chance to see the Tower’s evolution from a fortress to a royal residence and prison.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate, manageable feel, unlike the crowded daytime visits. Although some reviews report slight issues like guides arriving late or difficulty locating them initially, most guests enjoyed the personalized attention and the relaxed pace.

Value for Money

While $94.95 may seem steep for just over an hour of guided tour and early access, consider the benefits: avoiding the long lines, experiencing the opening ceremony, and viewing the Crown Jewels in peace. Several reviewers call it “absolutely worth it” and appreciate the priority entry and guidance as a way to maximize their visit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re seeking a more exclusive, less crowded experience at the Tower, this tour is perfect. History lovers and fans of royal tradition will appreciate the opening ceremony and the stories shared by Beefeaters. It also works well for travelers who like a balance of guided insights and free exploration. Be prepared for a small group setting — it’s not designed for large crowds — and a tour that emphasizes quality over quantity.

For those on a tight schedule or wanting to see as much as possible in a short time, this tour provides a low-stress way to enjoy the Tower’s highlights early in the day. On the flip side, if you’re keen on a deep dive into every nook of the Tower, you might want to combine this with more extensive visits later.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early at the specified meeting point for smooth check-in.
• Guide names like Nicholas or Ana are mentioned, so look out for familiar faces if you’ve booked with this company.
• Bring a camera, but remember that photos of the Crown Jewels are not allowed.
• The tour is suitable for people with moderate physical fitness, as there is some walking and standing involved.
• Small group size means personalized stories, but be prepared for the guide to sometimes be late or a bit loud in noisy environments.
• After the guided portion, feel free to explore sites like Traitors’ Gate or the White Tower at your leisure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include transportation?
No, the tour is based at the Tower of London itself; you’ll need to make your own way there via public transit or walking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for sudden changes.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the focus on history and storytelling should appeal to older children and teens, especially those interested in royal legends.

What’s the time commitment?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, including the opening ceremony, with additional free time afterward for self-guided exploration.

Are tickets included?
Yes, your ticket covers the opening ceremony, early access to the Crown Jewels, and entrance to sites like Traitors’ Gate, Bloody Tower, and White Tower.

Will I have time to take photos?
Absolutely — especially during the Crown Jewels viewing, where it’s quiet enough for good photos (though no pictures of the jewels themselves are allowed).

Is this tour good for history buffs?
Yes, the guides share stories that go beyond the typical facts, making it great for those eager to learn colorful details.

What if I have mobility issues?
The tour requires moderate physical activity; some sites inside the Tower involve walking and stairs. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand if you have specific needs.

Are guides friendly?
Most reviews praise the guides for being friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging — key to making the experience memorable.

Can I still explore after the tour?
Yes, the tour ends back at the meeting point, leaving you free to linger or visit nearby sights on your own.

In essence, this Tower of London early access tour offers a fantastic blend of tradition, history, and peaceful viewing in a compact, manageable package. It’s especially worth considering if you want to see the Crown Jewels without the crowds and enjoy a personal connection with knowledgeable guides. Suitable for history lovers and travelers wanting a more authentic, less rushed experience, it promises memories that will last well beyond your visit to London.