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

Visiting the Tower of London and Tower Bridge is a bucket-list experience for many travelers to London. This VIP early access tour offers a chance to beat the crowds and witness the historic opening ceremony of the Tower, with exclusive entries to some of London’s most famous landmarks. For around three and a half hours, you’ll get an inside look at centuries-old traditions, stunning architecture, and breathtaking city views.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it combines tradition and spectacle. Watching the official opening ceremony with a Beefeater and a military escort is a rare sight that most visitors don’t get to see. Plus, being among the first inside the Tower to view the Crown Jewels provides a quieter, more intimate experience—something especially valuable during busy tourist seasons.

However, this tour isn’t perfect for everyone. It involves several hours of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and stairs, so travelers with mobility issues should think twice. Also, the price point might seem high to some, but considering the exclusivity and early access, many find it well worth the cost.

This experience is best suited for history buffs, photography lovers eager for unobstructed shots, or anyone wanting to get a head start on popular attractions. It’s a well-paced, insightful tour that balances guided storytelling with plenty of time for personal exploration.

Key Points

• Early Access Benefits: Beat the crowds at the Crown Jewels and avoid the long lines that typically form later in the day.
• Authentic Ceremony: Witness the historic Tower of London Opening Ceremony with a Beefeater and military escort—an extraordinary, rarely seen tradition.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visit the White Tower, learn about royal arms and armor, and enjoy panoramic views from Tower Bridge.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Frank, John, and Warren are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor stories based on interest.
• Value for Money: While the tour costs $181.19, many reviews highlight how the early access, insider stories, and exclusive experiences make it worthwhile.
• Physical Demands: Expect a good amount of walking over uneven surfaces; wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off outside Tower Hill underground station, where guides like Warren or Fia greet you with friendly professionalism. From there, it’s a short walk to the Tower of London, where the excitement begins. Right away, you notice the organized, smooth flow—the tour’s small group size (max 20 travelers) ensures a personal touch. Reviewers consistently mention guides being knowledgeable and personable, often sharing little-known facts about the Tower’s long past.

Witnessing the Opening Ceremony

One of the standout moments is the opening ceremony itself. This involves the Duty Yeoman Warder and a military escort marching to open the Middle and Byward Towers. We’re told that only a few tours are privileged to witness this, making it feel like a special backstage pass into British traditions. Reviews from visitors like Ron emphasize the “wealth of knowledge” their guides provided, enhancing this historic spectacle.

Inside the Tower of London

Being among the first inside means you get an up-close view of the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive. This is a significant perk, especially during peak seasons when lines can stretch for hours. The collection, including the crown regalia used since 1661, is dazzling and highly symbolic, offering a glimpse into royal ceremonies past and present.

Next, the White Tower draws attention with its incredible 11th-century architecture. Visitors can explore the Royal Armouries collection, including suits of armor worn by Henry VIII and other monarchs, and the chapel of St. John. Reviewers like Greg praise the “excellent experience,” noting that the guide made the tour both informative and fun.

Tower Bridge and Panoramic Views

After absorbing centuries of history, the tour transitions to the modern marvel of Tower Bridge. The exhibition offers panoramic views of London, including landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard. Many reviewers appreciate the easy access to this part of the tour, avoiding long queues for tickets. The vantage point from the bridge is a highlight, especially if you’re a photography enthusiast.

Practicalities and Comfort

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, involving a fair amount of walking, often over cobblestone streets or inclines. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated. The small group size helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere, and guides are praised for their approachability and ability to answer questions.

While the tour is active, it operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is recommended. The inclusion of tickets to the Tower Bridge Engine Rooms and the White Tower adds further value, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace after the guided portion.

The Authenticity and Value

Many guests, including Charles and Jeri, feel that the early access and exclusive ceremony made the experience much more special than a standard visit. The small group size not only enhances comfort but also allows for more personalized storytelling, which makes the history come alive.

In terms of value, the tour’s price includes all entrance tickets and guided insights, saving you the hassle of buying separate tickets and waiting in lines. The reviews frequently mention how this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of London’s history in just a few hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who still want depth.

Some Tips Based on Reviews

• Arrive promptly, as directions are provided in advance but some guests mentioned nearly missing the start.
• Bring water, especially if you plan to walk and explore for several hours.
• If you have mobility concerns, consider whether the terrain and walking distance suit you, as some reviews note uneven surfaces and stairs.
• Be prepared for a fair amount of walking, but rest assured that the guides try to keep the experience engaging and tailored.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This VIP experience is a fantastic choice for history enthusiasts, photography fans eager for unobstructed views, and those who love experiencing traditions firsthand. It’s also ideal for visitors who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate, behind-the-scenes perspective of London’s royal and architectural heritage.

If you’re visiting London during a busy season or just want to maximize your time with early access and exclusive content, this tour offers excellent value. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility limitations, you might want to consider other options.

Summary

This tour delivers a well-rounded, immersive experience of London’s iconic landmarks with the added advantage of early access to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. With knowledgeable guides, fewer crowds, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a superb choice if you’re after a meaningful and memorable visit. The combination of witnessing a traditional opening ceremony, exploring the Crown Jewels, and taking in panoramic views makes for a captivating morning — especially if you appreciate history brought to life by expert storytellers.

To sum it up, this experience offers great value for those seeking a deeper connection to London’s royal past and architectural marvels. Its small-group setting and exclusive moments make it stand out from more generic sightseeing tours. Perfect for travelers wanting a mix of history, spectacle, and stunning vistas in one compact package.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, children over 18 are required to be accompanied by an adult. The tour focuses on history and tradition, so it’s best suited for older kids who can handle walking over uneven surfaces.

What’s included in the price?
All entrance tickets are included, covering the Tower of London and Tower Bridge Exhibition, along with the VIP experience of the opening ceremony and the Crown Jewels viewing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including guided walks, viewing, and some free time at Tower Bridge.

Can I join if I have limited mobility?
It’s not recommended for travelers with limited mobility due to the amount of walking over uneven terrain, stairs, and inclines involved.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as there’s quite a bit of walking. Dress according to weather conditions, as the tour operates in all weather.

Do I need to book well in advance?
Yes, the tour is often booked about 80 days ahead on average, reflecting its popularity and limited availability of the early access experience.

This VIP early access tour offers an authentic, insider look at London’s most famous landmarks, blending tradition with spectacular views and guided storytelling. It’s an experience designed to leave you with lasting memories—and a few incredible photos, too.