If you’re thinking about visiting the Tower of London, this VIP tour caught our eye because it promises an experience that’s quite different from the usual rush.
It’s designed for those who want to see the Crown Jewels and key historic sites without the mass of travelers fighting for space. Plus, with a cruise on the Thames included, it offers a well-rounded London experience in a compact three-hour window.
Two things we really like about this tour are the early access—which means fewer crowds—and the insider feel you get during the opening ceremony and the guided exploration. It’s a chance to soak in the atmosphere with a guide who shares stories that bring the Tower’s history to life.
Kim was our guide and he was exceptional! This is a Walks tour and you just know this tour company sits above the rest. The time, the detail, the amount of knowledge these tour guides have is just the best around. Kim took the time to explain the history of the Tower of London, he answered all of our questions. We had the special circumstance of having two tour guides on our trip, Sophie is so knowledgeable and we can’t wait to take a tour from her too one day when we return to London. 10 out of 10 stars, look no further, this team is amazing!
Excellent tour. The guide was extremely knowledgeable about the history of the Tower of London including the various people that lived and died there. Having early access to see the Crown Jewels was wonderful. I highly recommend this tour.
The first thing is they should explain where to meet, the guide as it was very confusing. They could say meet under the big Tree that is in front of the tower shop, that would save a lot of confusion… other than that the guide was very experienced even though we had a bomb threat, before we started and consequently had to wait for a few hours before we had entry. But all in all the guide was entertaining and knowledgeable. The pie and mash in the cafeteria at the tower is well worth buying.
The price, roughly $130, is a bit on the higher side but can be justified if you value intimate, hassle-free sightseeing and memorable moments.
A potential consideration is the tour’s physical demands—it involves walking over cobblestones, stairs, and uneven surfaces, which can be tiring, especially in warmer weather or if you have mobility concerns. Also, this tour is in English and has a maximum group size of about 20, so it’s not suited for those looking for a large-group, more casual experience.
All in all, this experience is a fantastic fit for history lovers, first-time visitors eager to beat the crowds, or anyone wanting to enjoy the Tower with a bit more exclusivity. If you’re comfortable walking and appreciate guided insights, this tour offers a straightforward way to make the most of your time in London.
- Key Points
- A Close Look at the Tour Itself
- Starting Point and First Impressions
- Inside the Tower: Crowds and Comfort
- The Jewel House: Crowds vs. Solitude
- Exploring the Walls and White Tower
- The Ravens and Hidden Rooms
- The Thames River Cruise: Flexibility and Views
- The Overall Experience: Balancing Value and Enjoyment
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
- FAQ
- More VIP Experiences in London
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in London
- More Tour Reviews in London
- Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in London we have reviewed
Key Points
- Fewer Crowds, More Comfort: Early access means you see highlights like the Crown Jewels without the usual throngs.
- In-Depth Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the visit with fascinating stories and insights.
- Inclusive Thames Cruise: A flexible ticket for a scenic boat ride adds a relaxing touch to your day.
- Special Opening Ceremony: Optional upgrade to witness the historic Tower opening ritual, a real highlight.
- Good Value for a Premium Experience: Slightly higher price but offers an intimate, hassle-free tour.
- Physical Considerations: Expect uneven surfaces and walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
A Close Look at the Tour Itself
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Starting Point and First Impressions
The tour kicks off outside the Tower of London, at Starbucks Tower Place. From here, the experience begins with a special event—the Opening Ceremony—if you’ve chosen to upgrade. This is a rare peek into a formal military ritual that officially marks the day’s start, with the Yeoman Warders and military escort marching to open the Tower’s gates.
Several reviews highlight how special it was to witness this firsthand, with one reviewer noting, “Getting in before the crowds and seeing the unlocking ceremony made it all the more memorable.”
If you opt for the standard morning tour, you’ll still enjoy early entry, bypassing the queues that usually form at opening time. This is a big plus for those who dislike waiting in lines or just want to maximize their sightseeing time.
Our tour guide Elizabeth was awesome and gave us all sorts of interesting facts and tidbits about every part of the Tower and throughout the tour. One of the best parts of the tour was the earpieces! Every person got a bluetooth earpiece and Elizabeth used her lapel microphone to narrate our walks as well as to talk to us better with many other people around. This allowed her to continue to narrate as we walked along narrow paths and up/down staircases. It also helped a lot when in smaller rooms with other people as she didn't have to yell to be heard and this also didn't disturb other guests.
Amber was fantastic, while my Daughter (15yrs) is very into English History. She said she even found out a few new things. Amber was very informative with a wealth of knowledge & answered any questions people had. The earphones/headsets made it easy to listen to Amber.
This is a must do! Dominque was amazing! He was an excellent guide and had so much knowledges. This tour went way above my expectations.
Inside the Tower: Crowds and Comfort
Once inside, you’re among the first visitors to explore the grounds, which makes for a more relaxed experience. One reviewer mentioned, “The early entrance makes the visit much less hectic.” Without the crowds, you can really take your time at each highlight, like the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. The jewels are dazzling, and with fewer people around, you get a chance to appreciate their details without jostling.
Guides tend to be well-informed and engaging. Reviewers have shared how guides like Amber, Liz, and Sal brought history alive, weaving stories and facts into each stop. One noted, “Our guide Sal was very knowledgeable and engaging—this made the visit the most interesting.”
The Jewel House: Crowds vs. Solitude
Seeing the Crown Jewels in a less crowded setting is a highlight for many. One person pointed out, “You can take your time and soak in one of the most dazzling collections of riches in the world.” This is a rare chance to admire the glittering crowns and scepters without the usual crush of travelers.
Exploring the Walls and White Tower
After the jewels, the tour continues along the famous Tower walls, where you can see the historic defenses and learn about their strategic importance. The White Tower, the original part of the fortress, gets a detailed tour. One reviewer shared that even after multiple visits over the years, this was the most engaging experience thanks to a guide.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London
The Ravens and Hidden Rooms
The resident ravens get a mention in many reviews—these iconic birds are part of the Tower's charm, and guides often share stories about their history and superstition. You might also peek inside the refurbished Edward I bedroom, which gives a glimpse into the medieval era.
The Thames River Cruise: Flexibility and Views
The tour concludes with a ticket for a Thames cruise, which is a real bonus. This flexible pass allows you to choose your departure time and pier—whether Tower, London Eye, Westminster, or Greenwich.
Reviewers appreciate the option to see the city from the river, especially after a busy morning indoors. The cruise offers an opportunity to unwind and take in the sights from the water, like Tower Bridge and the South Bank.
The Overall Experience: Balancing Value and Enjoyment
While the tour price is around $130, the value comes in the form of skip-the-line access, intimate viewing of the Crown Jewels, and an insider look at the Tower’s rituals and architecture. Reviewers frequently mention how much they appreciated being able to explore in peace, with one saying, “It was worth it to get in before the crowds and see the Ceremony of the Keys.”
However, the walking part can be demanding. The cobblestones, stairs, and narrow passages add to the authenticity but might be tough for those with mobility issues or tired legs after a while. Many mention bringing comfortable shoes, as the surface isn't always even.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, first-time visitors, or anyone who values a more personal and less crowded experience. It works well for travelers who are comfortable walking and navigating uneven surfaces. Families with older children or teens who enjoy stories of royalty and medieval defenses will also find it engaging.
If you're seeking a relaxed, in-depth visit with a guide in a small group setting, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited to those willing to pay a little more for convenience and exclusivity.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
In the end, this VIP experience offers an opportunity to see some of London’s most iconic sights with fewer crowds and more personal attention. It’s a smart choice if timing and comfort matter to you and you want to enjoy the Tower without the usual hustle. The inclusion of the Thames cruise adds a nice touch, rounding out your day with scenic views of the city.
While it’s not a budget deal, many reviews suggest that the quality of guides, the exclusive access, and the memorable rituals make it worth the extra spend. Just be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces, and you’re set for a special day.
VIP Early Access Opening Ceremony Tower of London & River Cruise
"Kim was our guide and he was exceptional! This is a Walks tour and you just know this tour company sits above the rest. The time, the detail, the a..."
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking on cobblestones, stairs, and narrow passages, so it may be challenging for those with mobility concerns. Comfortable shoes and readiness for some physical activity are recommended.
How early do I need to book?
Most travelers book about 72 days in advance, which shows how popular this tour is. Booking early ensures you secure your spot, especially if you want the opening ceremony upgrade.
Does the tour include the Crown Jewels?
Yes, the admission ticket to the Jewel House is included, and you get the chance to see the Crown Jewels in a less crowded setting if you arrive early.
Can I join the Thames cruise at a later time?
Yes, the cruise pass is flexible—you can choose your departure time and piers from Tower, London Eye, Westminster, or Greenwich.
Is the tour guided?
Absolutely. A local, English-speaking guide leads you through the Tower’s highlights, sharing stories, history, and insider tips.
Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour price covers the early access, Jewel House entry, and the Thames cruise pass. However, extras like souvenirs or additional food aren’t included.
In choosing this tour, you’re getting a well-rounded, immersive experience with the advantage of fewer crowds and expert guidance. It’s great for those who want to make the most of a short visit and enjoy some unique moments in one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
