London: VIP Tower Opening Ceremony, Crown Jewels & Cruise

When it comes to iconic London experiences, the Tower of London is high on the list. This tour offers more than just a standard visit — it’s a carefully curated, VIP-style day that combines early access, expert guides, and a relaxing cruise on the Thames. If you’re eager to avoid crowds, soak up history, and enjoy a bit of luxury, this might be just what you’re looking for.

We love the way this tour starts the day with an early entrance to the Jewel House — giving you a peaceful moment with the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive. Plus, the guided tour with a knowledgeable guide brings the Tower’s history alive, with stories that make even the most famous sights more engaging. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this experience is priced higher than standard tours, which might feel steep for some travelers. However, if you’re into history and exclusive access, the value generally holds up.

This tour feels best suited for travelers who want a deeper, more personalized experience at one of London’s most historic sites. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, first-timers wanting a rundown, or those who simply want to beat the rush and see the Crown Jewels in peace. Families with older children might also find it worthwhile, especially if they’re interested in history or royal traditions.

Key Points

• Early Access to the Crown Jewels: Beat the crowds and see the dazzling collection in a relaxed setting.
• Expert Guided Tour: Learn captivating stories from a knowledgeable guide, making history accessible and fun.
• VIP Entrance and Ceremony: Experience the famous opening military ritual with a small, exclusive group.
• Flexible Cruise Ticket: Enjoy a one-way Thames river cruise on any day, adding a scenic touch to your visit.
• In-Depth Tour: Explore key sites like Tower Green, Bloody Tower, Torture Chambers, and the White Tower.
• Time Commitment: Ranges from 2.5 to 3 hours, so plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Check-In

The tour kicks off at 3 Tower Place, London, where you’re advised to arrive 15 minutes early. You’ll spot your guide holding a green Walks sign near the West Gate entrance, opposite the Starbucks. This set-up is straightforward, with clear instructions that make meeting up stress-free. You’re in a small group, which helps keep things intimate and manageable.

VIP Entrance & Opening Ceremony

Once inside the Tower, your first highlight is witnessing the Opening Ceremony, a ceremonial military ritual that marks the Tower’s official opening for the day. This is a real treat because it typically draws large crowds later in the day, but on this tour, you’re part of an exclusive group that gets to see it firsthand — a real VIP feeling. Several reviewers have raved about this, with one mentioning that it made them feel like they received VIP treatment, saying, “Seeing the opening ceremony and getting early access made you feel like you received VIP treatment.”

The Crown Jewels

Next comes the moment many travelers look forward to: the Crown Jewels. Thanks to the early access, you’ll be among the first to enter the Jewel House, enjoying a quiet, unobstructed view of the stunning collection. A common theme in reviews is how much people appreciated being able to see the jewels without the usual crowds, which often makes the experience more special and less rushed. As one reviewer put it, “The Crown Jewel exhibit was spectacular,” and others appreciated being the first in and avoiding the crush of day-trippers.

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Guided Tour of the Tower

After the jewels, your expert guide takes over, leading you through the Tower’s most significant sites. This isn’t just a walk-through — it’s a storytelling session, highlighting the Tower’s role in history, from executions on Tower Green to the imprisonment at the Bloody Tower and the infamous torture chambers.

Some highlights include:

• Tower Green, where noble heads once fell.
• The Bloody Tower, home to some grisly stories and infamous prisoners.
• The Torture Chambers, which give a stark glimpse into medieval justice.
• A quick peek inside the refurbished bedroom of Edward I, adding a touch of royal history.

What makes this guided tour stand out is the depth of knowledge. Multiple reviews praise guides like Paul, Gina, Charlotte, and others for their enthusiasm, clarity, and storytelling skills. One reviewer even said, “Our guide Dominic was excellent and knowledgeable,” emphasizing how much a good guide can elevate the experience.

Exploring on Your Own

The tour concludes inside the White Tower, the central keep of the fortress, with the guide leaving you there to explore at your leisure. This is a real bonus because after the guided portion, you can visit the Beauchamp Tower, the Bestiary, or the Fusilier Museum — all at your own pace.

The Thames River Cruise

As a part of the experience, you’ll receive a flexible one-way river cruise ticket. You can use this on any day and from any pier, making it a great way to see London from the water. This added touch is appreciated by many, as it offers a relaxing way to wrap up a busy day of sightseeing.

Duration & Flexibility

Depending on your chosen option, the full experience lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours. If you’re short on time, the regular tour option offers a condensed 2.5-hour experience that covers the Tower grounds without the opening ceremony. This flexibility makes it adaptable to different schedules.

Pricing & Value

While this tour isn’t the cheapest option around, most reviews agree that the early access, expert guide, and VIP treatment justify the cost. The opportunity to see the Crown Jewels early and avoid crowds is a significant perk, especially during peak tourist season. Many travelers felt the hours spent with a knowledgeable guide added a meaningful layer to what might otherwise be a standard visit.

What’s worth noting?

The tour’s price includes priority entry, a guided experience, and a cruise ticket, which collectively add value. Some mentioned that they felt the tour was a splurge but believed it was worth it for the exclusive access and time saved.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid missing the start.
• Wear comfortable shoes; it’s a walking tour with some uneven surfaces.
• Book in advance as this tour tends to fill up, especially during busy seasons.
• While not suitable for those with mobility issues or strollers, this tour is accessible for most able-bodied travelers.
• Don’t forget to plan for your river cruise on a different day if you want to maximize your experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for anyone eager to get a comprehensive and privileged look at the Tower of London. History lovers will appreciate the depth and storytelling, while first-timers will benefit from the guided insights and early access. If you prefer a more relaxed visit with fewer crowds, this tour hits the mark. It’s also a great choice for those willing to pay a little extra for a more personalized, VIP experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is generally for guests who can walk comfortably and stay engaged with the guide’s storytelling. Children older than a certain age might enjoy it, but the tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly.

Can I join the tour with a stroller or wheelchair?
Unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for guests with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers due to the tour’s walking nature and site accessibility.

What time does the tour start?
Starting times vary; check the availability for specific dates. Arrive 15 minutes early to meet your guide at the designated location.

Are there options if I’m short on time?
Yes, you can opt for the Regular Tower of London Tour with Crown Jewels, which lasts about 2.5 hours and doesn’t include the opening ceremony.

How long is the tour?
The full tour lasts between 2.5 and 3 hours, depending on the option you choose and your pace.

Do I get to see the Crown Jewels?
Absolutely. Early access allows you to see the Crown Jewels before the crowds, providing a quieter, more intimate experience.

Is the river cruise included?
Yes, you get a flexible one-way cruise pass that you can use on any day and from any pier.

What is the guide like?
Reviews highlight guides like Charlotte, Gina, Dominic, and others as knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and good at storytelling.

Can I explore other parts of the Tower on my own?
Yes, after the guided tour ends, you’re free to explore areas like the Beauchamp Tower, the Bestiary, or the Fusilier Museum.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as there’s some walking involved. London weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.

In The Sum Up, this VIP tour of the Tower of London offers a mix of early access, expert storytelling, and scenic relaxation via the river cruise. It’s well-suited for travelers craving a more premium, less crowded visit to this historic site. The guided insights, combined with the chance to see the Crown Jewels in peace, make it a worthwhile splurge for those who value quality experiences and storytelling. Whether you’re a history buff or just want a smoother, more exclusive visit, this tour delivers a memorable snapshot of Britain’s royal history—without the usual hustle.

You can check availability for your dates here: