VIP Early Access: Opening Ceremony Tower of London & Bridge Entry

Start with the key details:
This VIP tour, priced at $181.19 per person, offers a rare opportunity to enter the Tower of London before the crowds and witness the historic Opening Ceremony, along with exclusive access to the Crown Jewels and Tower Bridge. Led by knowledgeable guides, including the likes of Warren and Fia, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at one of London’s most iconic sites, all within a manageable 3.5-hour window.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines history with exclusivity. First, you’re among the few to see the Crown Jewels early, avoiding the long lines that typically snarl up this popular exhibit. Second, the chance to witness the Opening Ceremony — a traditional march by the Yeoman Warders — adds a theatrical touch that few other tours can match.

A small consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and stairs, so it might not be suitable for travelers with limited mobility. Also, while the tour is packed with highlights, some might find the tight schedule leaves little room for extra exploration on their own.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, first-timers wanting a curated experience, and those who value skipping lines at major attractions. If you want a deep dive into London’s royal past with a touch of VIP treatment, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

Exclusive Early Access to the Tower of London lets you see the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive.
Insightful Guides like Warren and Fia make history lively and engaging.
Complete Entry Tickets included, saving time and money, especially for the Crown Jewels and Tower Bridge.
Witness the Opening Ceremony — a rare, traditional Yeoman Warder event, adding a personal touch to your visit.
Panoramic Views from Tower Bridge offer a great photo opportunity of London’s skyline.
Walking and Stairs are part of the experience, so comfortable footwear is a must.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Atmosphere

From the moment we meet outside Tower Hill station, it’s clear this tour prizes efficiency and exclusivity. The small group size (maximum of 20 travelers) helps keep things intimate, allowing your guide to share detailed stories and answer questions easily.

The Opening Ceremony and Early Entry

As we approach the Tower, our guide introduces us to the significance of the Opening Ceremony. Watching the Yeoman Warders (or Beefeaters) march to open the Middle Tower and Byward Tower is a highlight, feeling like stepping into a royal procession. This moment is unique because most visitors only see the Tower during normal daytime hours, so you’re getting a slice of tradition rarely experienced by casual travelers.

Inside the Tower

Once inside, you’re among the few to enter before the main crowds, which means more space and less jostling. Our guide emphasizes that this early access allows us to enjoy the Crown Jewels with minimal waiting — a luxury that’s highly praised in reviews. The collection itself is a dazzling array of crowns, scepters, and regalia, used in coronations since 1661, and the close-up view is something you’ll remember long after your trip.

The White Tower and Its Treasures

Next, we visit the White Tower, the original 11th-century structure, housing the Royal Armouries collections. The exhibit features armor from monarchs like Henry VIII and Charles I, along with historic weapons and royal regalia. It’s a fascinating look at the artifacts that made centuries of monarchy possible and adds a tangible sense of history to the visit. Reviewers often mention the “magnificent royal armors” and the ‘Line of Kings’ exhibit, which makes the White Tower a highlight for many.

Tower Bridge Exhibition and Views

The final stop is the Tower Bridge, where we gain priority access to the exhibition. From the high-level walkways, the views over the Thames and across London are stunning, especially when the bridge lifts for ships beneath. The exhibition offers insight into the bridge’s 120-year history and engineering marvels, making it more than just a pretty photo spot. Travelers report that the panoramic vistas are worth the visit alone, and many mention the stairs involved, so sturdy shoes are essential.

Authentic Insights and Tips

According to reviews, guides like Warren and Fia make the experience memorable, blending expert storytelling with humor and friendliness. One reviewer shares that Warren was “very personable and knowledgeable,” which makes the entire experience more engaging. It’s clear that a good guide can turn a standard tour into something special.

Many travelers appreciate the value of avoiding crowds at the Crown Jewels, citing that they could take their time and really appreciate the craftsmanship and history. The timed tickets to the Tower Bridge also help prevent long waits, giving you more time to soak in the sights.

A potential drawback, as one reviewer noted, is the limited free time after the tour. If you’re someone who loves wandering on your own or exploring in depth, this might feel a little rushed. But for most, the focus on key highlights and expert guidance makes this a worthwhile trade-off.

Practical Considerations

Timing and transportation are straightforward, with the meeting point at Tower Hill station. The tour covers about 3.5 hours of walking and sightseeing, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The group size is capped at 20, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable.

Price-wise, at $181.19, it might seem steep for some, but when you consider the included tickets, pre-boarding access, and expert guide, many find it good value—especially given how much you’ll see and learn in a short time.

Note that food and drinks, as well as transportation to and from the sites, are not included, so plan accordingly. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately, and be prepared for some stairs and uneven surfaces.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, VIP-style introduction to London’s royal and architectural history. First-time visitors will find it perfect for covering major highlights efficiently, while history aficionados will appreciate the detailed storytelling.

If you value skip-the-line access and enjoy learning from well-informed guides, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suitable if you’re okay with a bit of walking and stairs and want to avoid the hustle and bustle of crowds.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Not really. The tour involves a fair amount of walking over uneven surfaces, stairs, and hills, so it’s best suited for those in good health with moderate physical fitness.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, which includes guided visits to the Tower of London, Crown Jewels, White Tower, and Tower Bridge.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance tickets are included, which saves you time and money at key sites like the Crown Jewels and Tower Bridge.

Can I see the Crown Jewels without long lines?
Yes, early access as part of this VIP tour means you’ll be among the first to view the Crown Jewels, avoiding typical crowds and wait times.

What’s the main advantage of this tour?
The early access, guided insights, and VIP treatment make this a more relaxed, informative experience—perfect for those who want to see the highlights without the crowds.

Does this tour operate in all weather?
Yes, it does. Dress appropriately for rain or shine, as the tour is outdoors and involves walking.

Is food or drink included?
No, food and drinks are not part of the package, so plan to bring water and perhaps a snack if needed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside Tower Hill underground station and concludes at Tower Bridge.

Is this suitable for children?
Children over 18 are required to be accompanied by an adult, and the tour involves walking and stairs, so it’s better suited for older kids comfortable with those conditions.

To sum it up, this VIP tour of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge offers a rare blend of exclusivity, expert storytelling, and iconic sights. It’s perfect for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers who want to maximize their London experience while avoiding the crowds. The included tickets, VIP access, and friendly guides make it a practical yet memorable way to connect with the city’s royal past and engineering marvels. If you’re prepared for some walking and stairs, it’s a package that delivers a genuine sense of stepping into history, with the comfort of guided insights and front-of-the-line access.