Tower of London: Early Access with Crown Jewels & Beefeaters

If you’ve been dreaming of experiencing the Tower of London without the usual crowds, this guided early access tour might just be your ticket. Imagine arriving before the general public, witnessing the historic opening ceremony, and getting a close-up view of the Crown Jewels. This tour combines a small-group vibe with expert guides who bring history to life, making it a standout way to explore this iconic fortress.

What we love most? The chance to see the Crown Jewels with minimal crowds, and the engaging stories from knowledgeable Beefeaters. That personal touch really makes the experience memorable. A potential drawback? The tour’s duration is relatively short—about 75 minutes—so if you’re after a deep dive, you’ll need to explore on your own afterward.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate expert insights, want early access to key sights, and enjoy small-group experiences that feel intimate rather than touristy. Whether you’re a history buff or simply want to beat the crowds, this experience offers a practical and enjoyable way to see the Tower of London.

Key Points

• Early Access Advantage: Beat the crowds and see the Crown Jewels before the masses arrive.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Lee and Margarite enhance the experience with storytelling and humor.
• Iconic Highlights: Witness the historic opening ceremony, explore Traitors Gate, and visit the Bloody Tower at your own pace.
• Small Group: Limited to 20 people, so the tour remains personal and manageable.
• In-Depth Insights: Learn fascinating stories about the Tower’s landmarks, such as the Green Tower and the White Tower.
• Flexible Exploration: After the guided part, enjoy free time to wander and take photos without feeling rushed.

The Starting Point and Guided Exterior Walk

Your adventure begins at the Tower of London Shop, where you meet your guide about 10-15 minutes before the scheduled start. We’ve read that arriving early really pays off, as it allows you to get ahead of the usual crowds. Once assembled, your guide will lead a roughly 25-minute walk around the Tower’s exterior, taking in the formidable walls, Traitors Gate, and the White Tower from outside.

This initial stretch is more than a warm-up; it’s a chance to soak in the atmosphere of the historic fortress. You’ll hear stories of intrigue, betrayal, and royal drama, setting the tone for what’s inside. Many reviewers mention how engaging guides like Lee and Margarite bring history alive with humor and vivid descriptions.

Witnessing the Historic Opening Ceremony

One of the tour’s standout moments is the Opening Ceremony, a tradition that has persisted for over a century. The gates swing open with military precision, and the Beefeaters perform their lively commentary. According to reviews, this is a lively spectacle, not just a formal procedure—expect witty banter from the Beefeaters who add personality and humor to the centuries-old ritual.

Travelers like Belinda appreciated this part, noting how special it was to see the ceremony done with flair. It’s a unique chance to witness a key piece of the Tower’s living history, usually inaccessible to visitors arriving later in the day.

Early Access to the Crown Jewels

After the ceremony, you’re among the first visitors to step into the Crown Jewels collection. This is where the tour really shines. With fewer visitors around, you’ll get an unobstructed view of glittering crowns, scepters, and diamonds that usually draw massive crowds.

One reviewer, John, called this the “best part,” emphasizing how being early allowed him to beat the long lines and enjoy a more relaxed viewing experience. The fact that this part of the tour is limited in time—about 15 minutes—means you’ll want to pay close attention and soak it all in.

Exploring the Tower’s Other Landmarks

Following the jewel viewing, your guide will share insider tips on must-see spots like the Traitors Gate, the Bloody Tower, and the Green Tower. The Green Tower is especially notable because two of Henry VIII’s wives met their end there, adding a ghostly dimension to your visit.

While the tour itself lasts roughly 75 minutes, you’ll have the freedom to stay and explore on your own afterward. Many reviews highlight the value of this flexible time, allowing visitors to see the White Tower or wander through the grounds at their pace.

The Value of a Small Group

Limitations on group size—max 20 people—ensure that guides can answer questions and provide personalized insights. Multiple reviews mention how guides like Lee, Margarite, and Suzanne bring enthusiasm and depth to the tour. They add humor and stories, making the experience engaging and memorable.

This small-group approach also minimizes the chaos often found in larger tours, making it easier to take photos, listen carefully, and ask questions. If you’re someone who prefers a more intimate experience, this tour hits the mark.

Practical Considerations and Logistics

The tour’s price is around $111.79 per person, which includes the early access, the opening ceremony, and the guided exploration. While it’s not the cheapest option, the value lies in avoiding crowds, enjoying a personalized experience, and getting behind-the-scenes insights.

The tour lasts about 75 minutes, so you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and dress weather-appropriately, especially if it’s an overcast or rainy day. The meeting point is straightforward—just arrive 10-15 minutes early at the Tower of London Shop, where the guide will be holding a sign.

Note that the tour does not include hotel pickup or meals, so plan to eat before or after. Also, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as the experience involves walking and standing.

Real-World Experiences from Other Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the history fun and accessible. For example, Tracy loved how her guide, Lee, infused humor into his storytelling, making complex tales easy to follow. John emphasized how the early access “certainly recommended” the experience, especially for the Crown Jewels and opening ceremony.

Some mention the short duration—around 75 minutes—feeling a bit rushed, but many appreciate that it’s enough to see the main highlights without feeling overwhelmed. One traveler noted that the line for the Crown Jewels can be over an hour if you arrive later, so going early is a great way to save time.

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, first-time visitors, and those eager to avoid the crowds. If you value personalized attention and enjoy stories and humor along with history, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially good for travelers who want early access, giving them a head start on one of London’s most visited attractions.

However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into every corner of the Tower or have mobility issues, you might find the 75-minute tour too brief or the walking involved challenging.

For those who want the best introduction to the Tower of London, this tour offers excellent value. It combines early access, expert guides, and exclusive sights in a manageable timeframe. The intimate group size helps foster conversation and allows for better photo opportunities, making it a worthwhile choice.

While the tour is concise and doesn’t cover every detail of the Tower’s vast history, it’s perfect for a first visit or a quick, high-quality overview. Plus, being among the first into the Crown Jewels and witnessing the opening ceremony adds a special touch that many visitors cherish.

If your goal is to experience the Tower with fewer crowds and with the guidance of engaging experts, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just remember to dress comfortably, arrive early, and keep your camera ready for some unforgettable moments.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the Tower of London opening ceremony, early access to the Crown Jewels, a guided walk with fun stories, and a small group experience.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 75 minutes, with the guided portion plus free time afterward to explore independently.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your voucher, either printed or on your mobile device.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best for those able to walk and stand for periods; not suitable for wheelchair users or people with limited mobility.

Where do I meet the guide?
At the Tower of London Shop, 10-15 minutes before the scheduled start. The guide will hold a sign with “The Tour Guy.”

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it begins at the Tower of London and ends there as well. You will need to arrange your own transport to and from the meeting point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended; dress weather-appropriate.

Do I get to see the entire Tower?
The tour covers key highlights such as Traitors Gate, Bloody Tower, and the Crown Jewels. You’re free to explore other areas afterward on your own.

This guided early access tour offers a fantastic way to get close to London’s crown jewel with fewer crowds, lively guides, and an authentic experience. It’s well-suited for curious travelers eager to combine history, fun, and practicality in one memorable morning.