Tower of London: Opening Ceremony & Early Crown Jewels Access

If you’re planning a trip to London and are fascinated by royal history and legendary sites, this early entry tour of the Tower of London could pique your interest. Designed for those who want to skip the crowds and see the treasures in a more intimate setting, this experience promises a behind-the-scenes peek at one of England’s most iconic landmarks.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines exclusive early access to the Crown Jewels with the chance to witness the Tower’s historic opening ceremony and hear stories that most visitors never get to see or hear. It’s a rare opportunity to step inside before the masses arrive, making it perfect for history buffs and those wanting a more relaxed visit.

That said, one thing to consider is that the tour lasts just over an hour and a quarter, which might feel a little rushed if you’re the type who loves exploring every nook at leisure. Plus, at $94.95, the price is on the higher side for a guided experience, but many feel it’s justified by the exclusive access and storytelling.

This experience suits visitors who value history, exclusivity, and avoiding crowds. If you’re after a more laid-back, storytelling-focused visit with guided insights, then this could be a solid choice. Just keep in mind that it’s not a full-day tour, so plan your day accordingly once you’re inside.

Key Points

• Early access means fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience at the Tower of London.
• You’ll watch the historic opening ceremony performed by Yeoman Warders, adding a regal touch.
• The Crown Jewels are accessible before the crowds, giving you a chance to see them in quiet awe.
• The tour combines guided storytelling with independent exploration, perfect for those who like flexibility.
• Group sizes are limited to 20, ensuring a more personal experience.
• The price is about $95, which offers exclusive access but might be a splurge for some travelers.
• The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness—it involves some walking and standing.
• It’s a great choice for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors wanting an insider view.

What to Expect from This Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

The adventure kicks off early in the morning at 68 Lower Thames St, where you’ll meet your guide. The key benefit here is beating the crowds, and many reviewers note how easy it is to find the meeting spot with public transportation nearby. We love how the tour begins with a friendly, knowledgeable guide who sets the tone for the day.

Inside the Tower: A Glimpse of Royal Secrets

Once inside, the guide will take you around the historic grounds, sharing tales of betrayal, imprisonment, and royal splendor. You’ll get a chance to see the exterior grounds, including sites like Traitors’ Gate—an ominous entrance where prisoners once arrived—and the White Tower, built by William the Conqueror, which served as a royal residence.

Reviewers mention the guides’ storytelling skills as a highlight, with one saying, “The Beefeaters’ intro to the tour was loved,” and another praising “a knowledgeable, fun guide” who kept everyone engaged. The stories aren’t just dry facts—they weave legends, suspense, and drama, which bring the centuries-old walls to life.

The Opening Ceremony: A Historic Ritual

One of the tour’s standout moments is the Gate Opening Ceremony, performed by the Yeoman Warders (or Beefeaters). Watching the gates creak open with keys in hand feels almost theatrical, and many guests describe it as a “front-row seat to history in action.” It’s one of those experiences that feels special because it’s a tradition that’s been kept alive for hundreds of years.

Exclusive Early Access to the Crown Jewels

The crown jewel of this tour is the opportunity to view the Crown Jewels in the early morning light—long before the crowds arrive. Many reviewers express how magical it is to have this space almost to themselves, with one saying, “Getting to see the jewels first, without the stampede, made all the difference.” You’ll see diamonds, crowns, scepters, and orb treasures, bathed in soft sunlight, making for incredible photos and a more intimate experience.

Exploring Key Sites with Freedom

After the jewels, the tour guide will give insider tips for the rest of your visit. They often recommend exploring Traitors’ Gate, the Bloody Tower, and the White Tower at your own pace.

Several reviews highlight how this flexibility is a major plus, with one guest noting, “We enjoyed having guided overview and then free time to explore.” This is ideal if you want a mix of guided storytelling and the chance to linger at spots that catch your interest.

The Dark Side of the Tower

Stories of the two young princes, Edward V and Richard, who vanished in the Bloody Tower, are woven into the tour. The atmosphere becomes almost mysterious as you stand near the infamous site, where history and legend merge. Some reviews mention the “haunted, secretive” vibe, which adds a layer of intrigue to the visit.

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: The Exterior and Setting the Scene

Your journey begins outside the Tower, where your guide will share stories about the Traitors’ Gate and the White Tower. Expect to hear about the secrets and legends lurking within these walls, as many reviews note the guide’s storytelling as a major highlight.

Stop 2: The Opening Ceremony

This brief but historic event involves the Yeoman Warders performing a tradition that has been carried out for centuries. Standing at the gates, witnessing the keys being handed over, and observing the guards’ ceremony creates an authentic atmosphere that many visitors find unforgettable.

Stop 3: The Crown Jewels

This is the showstopper—your VIP moment before the crowds arrive. Many reviews rave about getting early access, with one saying, “No pictures allowed, but it’s worth it to see the sparkle without the crowds.” Expect to spend around 15 minutes in awe of the shimmering crowns and jewels, with soft lighting enhancing their brilliance.

Stop 4: Traitors’ Gate & Bloody Tower

Post-visit, you’re encouraged to explore sites like Traitors’ Gate and the Bloody Tower on your own. The stories of betrayal and murder are powerful and add depth to your visit. Several guests say these sites are “dark, mysterious, and full of secrets,” making them a must-see.

Stop 5: The White Tower

Built over 1,000 years ago, the White Tower is a fortress as much as a symbol of Norman might. Inside, you can expect to find historical artifacts, royal weapons, and stories of prisoners. Reviews mention that exploring the White Tower alone after the guided tour is a rewarding experience.

The Practicalities

Group Size and Guide

You’ll be in a small group, capped at 20 people, which helps keep the experience personal. Many reviews praise guides like Nicholas and Lee for their knowledge and engaging manner. One reviewer even called their guide “one of the coolest guides I’ve ever had.”

Duration and Price

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, which is a solid chunk of time to get a taste of the Tower without feeling rushed. The cost is around $94.95 per person. While it’s not cheap, many guests feel the exclusive early access and storytelling justify the price—especially if you’re keen on avoiding crowds and capturing photos in peace.

Accessibility and Physicality

The tour recommends travelers have moderate physical fitness, as there’s some walking involved. However, most of the sites are accessible, and the experience is tailored to provide a good balance of guided narration and free exploration.

Booking and Cancellation

Reservations are straightforward with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility if plans change. The experience is booked via The Tour Guy, known for its reliable tours.

Real Guest Feedback – What They Loved (and What They Didn’t)

Highly Praised Aspects:
– Knowledgeable guides like Lee and Nicholas make history come alive.
– Watching the opening ceremony is seen as a must-do highlight.
– Being first in line for the Crown Jewels allows for stunning photos and a quiet viewing.
– The small group size makes the experience intimate and personal.
– The early access truly makes a difference, especially during busy seasons.

Some Criticisms:
– A few guests noted initial difficulty in locating guides, so arrive early and look out for your guide’s group.
– In one instance, a guide was late and somewhat abrupt, which impacted the experience slightly.
– For some, the price might seem steep, but many feel the exclusive access and stories compensate.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who values priority access, storytelling, and avoiding lines, this tour is a strong pick. It’s ideal if you want to beat the crowds and get a more relaxed, insightful visit. It’s perfect for history lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone who appreciates a touch of tradition and ceremony.

However, if you prefer a full-day, in-depth exploration or travel with very young children, this might feel a bit brief. The experience is designed for those wanting a snapshot of the Tower’s highlights with a special focus on exclusivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pick-up or drop-off?
No, it does not include hotel transportation. You meet at the designated location near the Tower of London.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including the opening ceremony, crown jewels viewing, and guided narration.

What is the price?
It costs around $94.95 per person, which reflects the exclusive early access and storytelling.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stories and sites are engaging for most ages. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness.

What does the tour cover?
It covers the outer grounds, the opening ceremony, early access to the Crown Jewels, Traitors’ Gate, Bloody Tower, and White Tower, along with guided storytelling.

Are there opportunities for independent exploration?
Yes, after the guided portion, you’ll have time to explore highlighted sites like Traitors’ Gate and the White Tower on your own.

How do I find my guide?
The meeting point is at 68 Lower Thames St. Arrive early, and look for a guide with a small group—most guests find it straightforward after a quick check.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Is this experience good value?
Many guests feel that the early access, exclusive viewing, and guided stories justify the cost. For those who want a quieter, more intimate visit, it offers a lot for the price.

Final Thoughts

This early access tour of the Tower of London is a smart choice if you’re eager to beat the crowds and dive into the history in a more relaxed setting. The combination of watching the historic opening ceremony, seeing the Crown Jewels before the rush, and hearing stories from passionate guides makes it stand out from standard visits.

It’s especially suited for travelers who care about exclusive experiences, enjoy storytelling, and want to capture photos without the throng of travelers. While the price might be on the high side, many guests agree it’s a worthwhile splurge for a truly special morning.

If you’re visiting London and want a memorable, intimate glimpse of the Tower’s treasures with a touch of ceremony and tradition, this tour could be exactly what you’re looking for. Just arrive early, enjoy the stories, and soak in the historic atmosphere that has captivated visitors for centuries.