Tower of London: Early Access with Crown Jewels & Beefeaters

Planning a trip to London and want to experience the Tower of London without the crowds? If so, this early access tour might be just what you’re looking for. It provides a chance to see some of the most iconic sights with a knowledgeable guide, all before the usual rush of visitors. We’ve looked into it thoroughly to help you decide if it fits your travel style.

Two things we especially like about this tour are the early access to the Crown Jewels, which means fewer lines and better photos, and the chance to attend the historic opening ceremony—a tradition that adds a special touch to your visit. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is not suitable for visitors with mobility issues, so if you have limited mobility, you might want to explore other options.

All in all, this tour strikes a good balance for those who want a more intimate, in-depth look at the Tower while avoiding the long lines. It’s ideal for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone eager for an authentic experience early in the day.

Key Points

• Early access means fewer crowds and better photo opportunities at the Crown Jewels.
• The guided walk and Beefeaters’ stories add context and personality to your visit.
• The small group size (max 20 people) offers a more personalized experience.
• The 73-minute duration makes it a manageable yet thorough introduction.
• It doesn’t include hotel pickup or meals, so plan accordingly.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, so consider this if mobility is a concern.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect When You Book

Walking into the Tower of London with this tour, you’ll immediately notice the peace and quiet of the early morning hours—a rare treat at a site usually bustling with visitors. The tour starts with an outside walk around the fortress, where your guide will share stories of intrigue, betrayal, and royal drama. Expect to see iconic landmarks like Traitors Gate and the White Tower, all from the outside, setting the scene for what’s inside.

The highlight before the crowds arrive is the historic Opening Ceremony. This traditional event, performed by the Beefeaters, involves military precision and witty commentary, making it both informative and entertaining. As one review notes, “This was a great tour option, to get early access to the Tower and see the opening ceremony that the Beefeaters do… Lee our tour guide was great, he was really friendly and engaging, and was knowledgeable.” It’s a memorable way to kick off your visit.

Inside the Tower: Crown Jewels and Beyond

After the ceremony, you get to skip the crowds and head straight to the Crown Jewels. Since you’re among the first to arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to view the stunning collection of crowns, diamonds, scepters, and other regalia without the usual elbowing and long lines. Several reviewers describe this as a major highlight—being among the first allowed in, they appreciated the chance to take photos and really absorb the sights.

Your guide will then point out other significant sites like the Green Tower, where two of Henry VIII’s wives met their end, and Traitors Gate, known for its dark history. After the guided portion, you’ll have free time to explore on your own, taking in areas like the Bloody Tower and White Tower at your own pace. This flexibility allows you to linger where you’re most interested, whether that’s the haunting atmosphere of the Bloody Tower or the historic displays in the White Tower.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour follows a structured route to maximize your experience:

• Start at the Tower of London Shop, where you’ll meet your guide and check in.
• A guided walk around Tower Hill (25 minutes) introduces the history and lore of the grounds, with scenic views along the way.
• A quick photo stop at Tower Bridge (5 minutes)—a perfect backdrop for your photos.
• Passing by the Middle Tower (about 5 minutes), your guide shares tidbits about its role.
• A brief guided look at the Tower of London (10 minutes), focused on outside landmarks and their stories.
• Visiting the Jewel House (15 minutes) gives you a close look at the Crown Jewels.
• The main event: the Crown Jewels (15 minutes), where early access means minimal queues and more time to admire the treasures.
• The tour concludes back at the original starting point.

Throughout, your guide will keep the pace brisk but engaging, making sure you get the most out of your time.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

From reviews and our analysis, guides like Lee, Ben, and others consistently earn praise for their knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous approach. Many travelers mention how the guides make the history come alive, sharing stories that stick with you. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the early access is a game-changer if you want a more relaxed visit.

On the downside, some reviews pointed out that the tour duration can feel brief, especially considering the size of the Tower. One person noted, “The tour was very short, but it still got us early access and avoided the lines.” If you’re a big history buff or want to explore every nook, you might find yourself wanting more time.

Another consideration is accessibility—the tour doesn’t accommodate wheelchairs or those with limited mobility, so plan accordingly if needed.

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Is It Worth the Price?

At approximately $112 per person, this tour is a solid value if you’re after early access, expert storytelling, and a more intimate experience. The advantage of avoiding crowds at the Crown Jewels and being part of the historic opening ceremony enhances the overall experience. If you’re someone who values quality over quantity, this tour offers a richer, more relaxed look at the Tower.

While it doesn’t include transportation or meals, the benefits of skipping the long lines and getting a guided introduction can save you hours of waiting, making it a worthwhile investment—especially if you’re visiting during peak season.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience best suits travelers who want a more personal, less crowded visit and are interested in stories behind the sights. It’s ideal for first-timers to London or those who want the unique chance to see the Crown Jewels early in the day. If you love history or enjoy guided walks with engaging guides, this tour is a good pick.

However, if you’re looking for a long, exhaustive exploration of the Tower or require full accessibility, you might prefer to explore independently or look for other options.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, making it a manageable yet enriching experience.

What is included in the experience?
You get early access to the Crown Jewels, the Tower of London opening ceremony, a guided walk with stories from Beefeaters, and free time to explore key areas like Traitors Gate and Bloody Tower.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify, but most of the experience involves walking and standing, so consider your children’s stamina. It’s generally good for families with older kids interested in history.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, this tour does not include food or beverages, so plan to grab a snack or meal before or after.

What about accessibility?
This tour does not accommodate wheelchairs or participants with limited mobility, so it might not be suitable for everyone with mobility issues.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It starts in front of the Tower of London shop, with instructions to arrive 10-15 minutes early, and ends back at the same point.

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

Final Thoughts

This early access tour of the Tower of London offers a compelling mix of tradition, storytelling, and exclusivity. The chance to avoid crowds, enjoy a private viewing of the Crown Jewels, and learn from engaging guides makes it a standout option for visitors wanting a more intimate experience. It’s especially suited for history lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone eager for a memorable start to their London exploration.

While it’s not the longest or most exhaustive tour, it packs a lot into a short period and provides a genuine sense of the Tower’s grandeur and secrets. If you’re okay with a brisk pace and want the benefit of early access, this tour could very well be the highlight of your London trip.

Remember: Book in advance, arrive early, and come prepared for a fascinating, story-filled morning at one of London’s most iconic sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: