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

Exploring the VIP Early Access Tour of the Tower of London & Tower Bridge

If you’re eyeing a visit to London’s most famous landmarks, this VIP early-access tour might just be the ticket. While I haven’t done this exact experience myself, I’ve gone through the reviews and details to give you a thorough look at what it offers. It’s a chance to step inside the Tower of London before the crowds arrive and see the Crown Jewels up close—something many visitors rave about.

One thing we love about this experience is how it combines a behind-the-scenes look at iconic sites with the chance to beat the usual rush, making it feel more special and less hectic. Plus, the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude add a layer of enjoyment that can really elevate the visit. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price point—at over $180 per person, it’s definitely an investment, but many say it’s worth it for the early access and exclusive moments.

This tour is a good fit if you’re a history buff, prefer a more relaxed pace, or want to get the inside scoop without the crowds. It’s especially suitable for travelers who don’t mind walking and are happy to stick to a schedule. If you’re after a more flexible, free-roam experience, this might not be the best choice, but for those wanting a guided, insightful, and less crowded visit, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Early VIP access lets you beat the crowds and see the Crown Jewels first.
• Guided experience enriches your understanding with expert commentary.
• All entrance tickets included mean no extra hassle or long lines.
• Visit the White Tower and Tower Bridge for history and spectacular views.
• Tour duration is about 3.5 hours, making it a compact but comprehensive visit.
• Group size is limited to 20, ensuring a more personal experience.

An In-Depth Look at What This Tour Offers

The Unique Advantage of Early VIP Access

What really makes this tour stand out is the early entry to the Tower of London. Instead of arriving with throngs of travelers, you walk in ahead of the masses, giving you the chance to see the Crown Jewels in a quieter, more intimate setting. Several reviews highlight this perk as a major highlight—”getting in early, but no free time for more exploring” seems to be the trade-off, but many find the time at each stop well-structured.

Being among the first visitors means you can take your photos without crowds and really soak in the atmosphere. You also get to witness the opening ceremony, which involves the Duty Yeoman Warder and a military escort marching to open the middle and Byward Towers. It’s a rare glimpse into a centuries-old tradition that adds a layer of authenticity to the experience.

The Guided Tour and Its Value

Having a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference. Multiple reviews emphasize how guides like Warren, Fia, and John bring history alive with their storytelling and friendly demeanor. As one reviewer put it, “Warren was an incredible tour guide. He was very personable and knowledgeable.”

The guided approach isn’t just about facts; it’s about weaving a narrative that helps you understand the significance of each site. From tales of torture and execution at the White Tower to the fascinating stories behind the royal armors of Henry VIII and others, you’ll come away with more than just photos—you’ll have stories to tell.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at the Tower of London, witnessing the opening ceremony and being among the first inside. This part lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which you’ll see:

• The Crown Jewels, where you’re first in line before the crowds. Many reviews mention how this early access makes the experience more enjoyable, avoiding long lines and busy crowds.
• The White Tower, which dates back to the 11th century. Inside, you’ll find a world-class collection of royal armors, including those of Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Visitors like Jeri note that it’s a “phenomenal” place with a lot of historical artifacts.
• The Traitor’s Gate, famous for its dark stories and historic significance.

Next, the tour moves on to Tower Bridge, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of London. The access to the Tower Bridge Exhibition is a highlight, especially for those interested in engineering marvels and city views. The visit here lasts about 45 minutes, providing fantastic photo opportunities and insights into how the bridge operates.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

While the tour includes all tickets, it doesn’t include food, drinks, or transportation—so plan to eat before or after. Meeting outside Tower Hill underground station makes for an easy start, especially if you’re familiar with London’s transport.

The walk involves a decent amount of moving over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, hills, and stairs. Good shoes are a must, and travelers with mobility issues should note that the tour isn’t specially tailored for limited mobility. With a maximum group size of 20, it maintains an intimate atmosphere, which many reviews praise for making the experience less overwhelming.

The Tour’s Value for Money

At roughly $181 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option, but considering the early access, guided insights, and all included tickets, many find it offers good value. Reviews mention that it’s well-organized, with guides who are both informative and engaging. The ability to skip the lines at the Crown Jewels and enjoy a more relaxed exploration are perks that many feel are worth the price.

What Travelers Are Saying

One of the most celebrated aspects is the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach. “Don was a wealth of information,” said Ron_V, and many others agree that the guides make history easy to understand and fun. The early access and the ability to see the Crown Jewels without the usual crowds get rave reviews, with comments like “the opening tour was incredible” and “we saw everything without the usual long lines.”

That said, some mention that the tour is a bit long and involves quite a bit of walking. Also, since it operates in all weather conditions, dressing appropriately is advised. No one seems to complain about the value, though, especially when the experience is so well curated.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This VIP early-access tour is ideal for those who want to maximize their time at London’s top historic sites with minimal hassle. If you’re a history lover eager to see the Crown Jewels first thing in the morning or enjoy guided storytelling that brings the past alive, this tour will suit you well. It’s also perfect for travelers who value a more personal experience—small group size and expert guides are a big plus.

However, if you prefer a more flexible, self-paced visit or are on a tighter budget, you might want to consider other options. This tour is a good investment for those who appreciate guided insights and the privilege of skipping the crowds.

FAQ

Can I cancel this tour for a full refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Make sure to cancel in time to avoid losing your payment.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for families, children over 18 would enjoy the guided insights and exclusive early access. Smaller children or those with mobility issues might find the walking and uneven surfaces challenging.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance tickets—Crown Jewels, White Tower, Tower Bridge Exhibition—are included, making it a seamless experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must because of the walking involved. Dress appropriately for weather, as the tour operates in all conditions.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation and hotel pick-up or drop-off are not included. You’ll meet outside Tower Hill station.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Will I get enough time at each site?
Reviews suggest the timing is well-structured; most visitors feel they have enough time to explore each section without feeling rushed.

Can I visit the Crown Jewels at any other time?
Yes, but the VIP tour allows you to see them first thing in the morning, avoiding long lines and crowds that form later in the day.

In sum, this VIP early-access tour of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge offers a balanced mix of history, exclusive access, and expert guidance. It’s especially good for travelers who want a more intimate, less crowded experience that’s rich in stories and stunning views. While it’s a bit pricier than other options, many feel the benefits—like skipping lines and insider insights—make it worth the investment. If you love history and want to experience London’s landmarks in a relaxed, guided way, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.