London: Tower of London, Thames Boat & Changing of the Guard

Exploring London through this tour offers a compelling mix of history, tradition, and scenic views. It combines a rare opportunity to step inside the Tower of London before it opens to the general public, a relaxing cruise along the Thames River, and an up-close look at the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace.

One of the biggest draws? The early access to the Tower, which allows you to beat the crowds and see the Crown Jewels in relative peace. The guide weaves in plenty of fascinating stories, making the experience more than just ticking off landmarks.

Of course, the tour does involve a fair amount of walking and tight scheduling, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy active sightseeing and are comfortable with a brisk pace. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or someone looking to maximize a short visit, this experience packs in a lot in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Early Access to the Tower of London allows visitors to avoid crowds and see the Crown Jewels with minimal fuss.
• The guided tour is praised for knowledgeable guides who bring history to life.
• The boat ride on the Thames offers great views and a relaxing way to move between landmarks.
• The Changing of the Guards ceremony is a quintessential British spectacle, with some days offering mounted cavalry.
• The tour’s timing is tight but well-organized, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive morning.
• Price at around $113 per person provides good value, considering the included attractions and guided commentary.

Starting Point: The Tower of London

The adventure begins right outside the Ticket Office at the Tower of London, where your guide, holding a “City Wonders” sign, meets your group. What sets this tour apart is the VIP early access to the fortress—meaning you get to step in before the crowds arrive. This early access is particularly valued by reviewers who mention how it allows for a more relaxed look at the White Tower and Jewel House.

Inside the Tower, you’ll witness the ceremonial opening performed by the Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, which adds a layer of tradition and solemnity to your visit. As one reviewer noted, “Jeremy was amazing fun and the changing of the guard gave me chills,” highlighting how engaging the guides make the experience.

The Crown Jewels are a major highlight here. Being among the first visitors means you get to see the regalia, including crowns, scepters, and orbs, without the overwhelming crowds that gather later in the day. Reviewers frequently mention how they appreciated this priority access—”Getting into see the Crown Jewels was also key as the crowds that soon descended were crazy,” one traveler shared.

Note: The tour does not include guided commentary inside the Jewel House or White Tower, as that’s prohibited, but your guide provides plenty of context before entering.

Scenic Thames River Cruise

From the Tower, you’ll board a panoramic riverboat for a 30-minute cruise along the Thames. This part of the tour offers a chance to see iconic sights like the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament from a different perspective.

The guide points out noteworthy landmarks and shares interesting tidbits along the way, making this not just a transportation method but an informative part of the experience. Reviewers have called the boat ride “a pleasant surprise,” noting the relaxing scenery and how it effectively connects the Tower with Westminster.

The Changing of the Guards or Westminster Walk

When you arrive at Embankment, you’ll have the option to watch the Changing of the Guard—a quintessentially British event and a highlight for many visitors. Depending on the day, you might see the Foot Guards at Buckingham Palace or the Mounted Horse Guards at Horse Guards Parade.

Several reviewers emphasize the expert positioning of their guides, who help them get the best views—”Lee and Peter were amazing! The tour was so informative and fun,” one reviewer said, describing how the guide’s knowledge and humor enhanced the viewing.

Timing is key: The schedule varies, with the Foot Guards changing on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, and the Horse Guards on Tuesday and Thursday. On Saturdays, there’s the “Guard Mounting” or “Inspection of the New Guard”.

Alternatively, some groups opt for a guided walk around Westminster instead of watching the guard change. This provides a chance to explore the palaces, historic buildings, and famous sites like Westminster Abbey and Parliament, with stories woven in by your guide. Several reviewers appreciated this alternative, noting how engaging and informative the walking tour was.

Concluding at Buckingham Palace

The tour wraps up at Buckingham Palace, giving you ample time to take photos, especially of the famous balcony where the Royal Family appears during special occasions. Many guests comment on how the timing allows for great photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the royal atmosphere.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The value of this tour is enhanced by its inclusions: VIP early access to the Tower, the opening ceremony (if selected), the Thames boat ride, and guided commentary. The headsets provided ensure everyone can hear the guide clearly, even in busy spots.

However, it’s worth noting that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included**, so you’ll need to make your way to the starting point on your own. Also, large bags, baby strollers, and luggage are not permitted inside the Tower, so pack accordingly.

Duration and Pacing

The entire experience lasts about 3.5 to 4 hours, making it a well-packed morning or early afternoon adventure. Reviewers have mentioned the pace as brisk but manageable, with some noting that it can feel a bit rushed—”A bit rushed at the monument Tower of London but a little too long walking through Westminster,” one said.

It’s a suitable option for active travelers who enjoy walking and sightseeing without feeling overly pressed, provided they’re prepared for a fair amount of walking—around 10,000 steps or more.

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledge and humor of guides like Jeremy, Louise, and Natalie. Many mention how these guides made history engaging and relatable, with one saying, “Louise was super relatable and filled in travel and wait times with interesting stories.”

The small group size — usually 15-20 people — is another plus, fostering a more personal experience and better vantage points. Guests have also appreciated the organized nature of the tour, with many saying it was “well designed” and “very efficient,” allowing them to see multiple major sights without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking quite a bit.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for photos, especially at Buckingham Palace and the Tower.
• Arrive at the meeting point early to ensure a smooth start.
• Remember that inside the Jewel House and White Tower, guided tours are not allowed; rely on your guide’s commentary beforehand.
• Check the schedule for the Changing of the Guards to align with your interests—whether you want the foot or mounted version.

This experience is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to central London’s most famous historical sites in a short timeframe. The early access to the Tower of London makes it particularly appealing for history buffs and keen photographers, who want to avoid the crowds and capture iconic sights without the hustle.

It’s a fantastic choice for first-time visitors who want a curated overview, with knowledgeable guides adding depth and humor to the sightseeing. The inclusion of the Thames boat cruise and the opportunity to witness the Changing of the Guards brings a touch of tradition and scenery that’s hard to beat.

However, active travelers who dislike rushing or long walks might find the pace a little brisk. Also, those with mobility issues should be aware that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and no wheelchair accessibility is mentioned.

Overall, at around $113, the tour offers solid value, especially considering the early access, guided commentary, and multiple highlights packed into a manageable morning or early afternoon. For anyone looking to tick off London’s top attractions with style, insight, and a few memorable moments, this tour makes a smart choice.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet at the designated starting point outside the Tower of London.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 3.5 to 4 hours, making it a great morning or early afternoon activity.

Can I see the Crown Jewels?
Yes, with early access, you will get to see the Crown Jewels in the Jewel House before the crowds arrive.

Is the Changing of the Guard always included?
It depends on the day of the week. It’s available on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday for Foot Guards, and on Tuesday and Thursday for Horse Guards. Saturdays feature a different ceremony called the “Guard Mounting.”

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the amount of walking involved. A camera or smartphone is also handy for photos.

Are large bags allowed inside the Tower of London?
No, large bags, luggage, or baby strollers are not permitted inside, so plan accordingly.

What if I want to do a different activity instead of watching the Changing of the Guard?
You can opt for a guided walking tour of Westminster instead, which offers a broader perspective on London’s royal and political history.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, be mindful that there’s a lot of walking and standing, which may be tiring for very young children.

Are there any dress code restrictions?
No specific restrictions, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes are best.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexible planning.

This tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and tradition, making it a highly recommended option for those wanting to maximize their time in London. With knowledgeable guides, smooth organization, and a variety of sights, it promises a memorable morning in England’s capital.