Tower of London: Opening Ceremony & Early Crown Jewels Access

Exploring the Tower of London early in the morning, before the crowds arrive, offers a rare chance to experience this historic site with a sense of intimacy and awe. This tour, offered by The Tour Guy, combines insider access, engaging storytelling, and a touch of tradition—like watching the iconic opening ceremony—making it a fantastic choice for history lovers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a more personal visit.

What we love about this experience is the priority access to the Crown Jewels, allowing us to view the dazzling collection without the crush of daytime crowds. Plus, the knowledgeable guides, especially those with a good sense of humor, make history come alive in vivid detail. The only consideration? The tour lasts just over an hour and a quarter, so if you’re after a deep dive into every corner of the Tower, you might want more time. It’s perfect for those who want a curated, insightful glimpse rather than a marathon exploration.

This tour suits visitors who value authentic, guided experiences with a focus on exclusive access. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a structured overview or seasoned travelers eager to beat the lines and see the Crown Jewels in a more relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Early access to the Tower of London allows you to avoid crowds and experience the site in a more intimate setting.
• The opening ceremony is a rare event that adds grandeur and tradition to your visit.
• Guides like Beefeaters are experts at storytelling and can share secrets not found in guidebooks.
• The Crown Jewels viewing in the morning is a significant highlight, with fewer visitors and better photos.
• The tour balances guided storytelling with free exploration time, giving you control over what you see.
• Group size is kept small (up to 20), ensuring a personalized experience.
• The price of $94.95 offers good value, considering the exclusivity and insider insights.
• The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness and those comfortable with walking and standing.

An In-Depth Review of the Experience

The Beginning: Meeting Near the Tower and First Impressions

Your day starts early, typically at 68 Lower Thames St, where a friendly guide greets you. From reviews, guides like Nicholas and Lee stand out for their knowledge and engaging delivery, making history accessible and fun. As you gather, you’ll notice the small group size—maximum of 20—keeps the experience personal and allows for questions and spontaneous photo ops.

The moment you walk around the exterior of the Tower, you’re greeted with stories of intrigue—Traitors’ Gate, White Tower, and tales of prisoners and princesses. One reviewer mentioned how the guides weave centuries of legend into vivid narratives, making the place feel alive rather than just bricks and mortar.

Witnessing the Tower’s Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony is a highlight. Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters, perform this age-old ritual with a mix of seriousness and humor, with some guides like Nicholas sharing amusing anecdotes. The ceremony involves the presentation of keys and the opening of the gates, all performed with ceremonial flair. Zoraida_W noted this as a “beautiful ceremony that’s a must-see,” adding that the experience is more than just a photo op—it’s a glimpse into royal tradition.

The Crown Jewels: Exclusive Morning Viewing

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the early access to the Crown Jewels. Unlike daytime crowds, you get to see the sparkling diadems, scepters, and crowns in peaceful, well-lit conditions. StacyandAdam_S emphasized how this was “worth it,” as they could appreciate the jewels’ grandeur without the usual congestion.

Guide insights here are invaluable. They’ll point out details you might miss on your own—like the history behind specific pieces or the stories of how these treasures are used in royal ceremonies. Several reviews, including Carolyn_g’s, mention how being first in line provided a significant advantage—an unhurried, more meaningful viewing.

Traitors’ Gate and Bloody Tower: Immersive Exploration

After the jewels, you’re encouraged to explore iconic sites at your own pace. Traitors’ Gate is a short walk but packs a punch—this dark, historic entrance carried prisoners to their fate. The chilling tales of betrayal make it a memorable stop.

The Bloody Tower, infamous for the disappearance—and probable murder—of the two young princes, Edward V and Richard, holds stories that remain shrouded in mystery. Visitors like CATHY_L appreciated how guides point out these sites’ significance, adding layers of context to your exploration.

The White Tower: Norman Fortress

The White Tower, built by William the Conqueror, is another must-see. Its impressive construction and centuries of history make it a symbol of Norman power and authority. Visitors report feeling transported back in time as they walk through its thick stone walls, surrounded by royal weapons and artifacts.

Flexibility and Time to Explore

While the guided segments are thorough, the tour also offers free time to wander. Reviewers like Jan_C appreciated the “mix of guiding and free time,” allowing for personal discovery. This flexibility means you can linger at favorite spots or snap extra photos without feeling rushed.

Guides and Storytelling

Guide quality is a recurring theme in reviews. Many mention guides like Lee and Ana Maria as knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate. Ana Maria, however, received some criticism about her volume, a reminder that audio clarity can sometimes be an issue in busy outdoor settings.

But overall, guides are praised for their ability to make history fun. One reviewer, tprossow, said Ana “knew all the best ways to convey the many dates in interesting ways,” which helps make a dense history lesson engaging.

Practicalities: Duration, Group Size, and Cost

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, which is perfect for a morning activity. The group size maxes out at 20, ensuring personal interaction and easier questions. The $94.95 price tag reflects a combination of exclusive early access, storytelling, and a more intimate experience—value for those who want more than just a walk-through.

However, some reviews, like Gail_P’s, remind travelers to communicate expectations—audio equipment, guide punctuality, and clarity are crucial. The tour’s focus on priority access makes it worth the cost for those eager to skip the lines, but it’s not a full, all-day exploration.

Additional Tips from Reviewers

• Meeting points are straightforward, and the tour is easy to find if you pay attention.
• Some reviewers noted initial difficulty in locating their guide, so arrive a little early.
• The tour does not include hotel pick-up or meals, so plan accordingly.
• The maximum group size makes the experience less overwhelming and more interactive.
• It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable walking and standing for short periods.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want to see the Crown Jewels early in the day without battling crowds, and who appreciate engaging storytelling from expert guides. It’s perfect if you’re craving a mix of guided insights and free exploration, with the bonus of witnessing a traditional opening ceremony.

Those interested in history, royal traditions, or photography will find this tour particularly rewarding. The small group setting and exclusive access make it a smart choice for travelers who want a more personal, relaxed visit to one of London’s most iconic landmarks.

However, if you’re after a comprehensive, all-day tour of the Tower, this might feel too brief. Also, those sensitive to audio issues should consider confirming guide equipment beforehand. Still, for a well-organized morning packed with memorable moments, this tour offers excellent value.

FAQs

Does this tour include hotel pick-up or drop-off?
No, it does not. You will meet at the designated location near the Tower of London.

How long does the tour last?
The core guided experience is about 1 hour 15 minutes, with additional free time afterward.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Yes, as long as you have moderate physical fitness. Some walking and standing are involved, but the pace is manageable for most visitors.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the Tower’s opening ceremony, guided storytelling with Beefeaters, early access to the Crown Jewels, and entry to sites like Traitors’ Gate, Bloody Tower, and the White Tower.

Can I take photos of the Crown Jewels?
No, photos of the Crown Jewels are not allowed, but you’ll get a fantastic view in peaceful conditions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the uneven surfaces and outdoor segments.

Is the group size large?
No, the maximum group size is 20, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

Final Words

The Tower of London early access tour offers a unique blend of tradition, storytelling, and exclusivity. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy this historic site without the usual crowds and to see the Crown Jewels in a more relaxed setting. Guided by passionate experts, you’ll gain insights and stories that bring the ancient walls to life.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, authentic traditions, and insider access. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the early entry and ceremony provide a memorable and valuable perspective on London’s royal history.

If you’re looking for a smart, well-organized, and engaging way to experience the Tower of London, this tour checks all the boxes. For an immersive morning filled with stories, tradition, and stunning views, it’s a highly recommended choice.