Tower of London: Early Access with Crown Jewels & Beefeaters

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to London and want to see the Tower of London without fighting crowds, this early access tour is a clever way to do it. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a unique, immersive way to explore one of England’s most iconic landmarks.

What makes this tour appealing? First, it includes early access to the Crown Jewels, which means you get to see the dazzling treasures before the crowds arrive. Second, the Beefeaters’ opening ceremony adds a ceremonial flair that’s both historic and lively. Lastly, with a small group of max 20, you’re promised a more personal experience, with plenty of time for questions and photos.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts about 75 minutes, so if you’re keen on exploring every nook, you might find it a bit brisk. Still, it’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want a meaningful, less crowded visit. This tour fits best for history lovers, photo enthusiasts, and those who value a relaxed yet informative experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Early access allows you to see the Crown Jewels and Tower before large crowds arrive.
• Guided by expert Beefeaters, you’ll hear lively stories and get insider tips.
• Attend the historic opening ceremony, a tradition dating back over a century.
• Visit iconic sights like Traitors Gate, Bloody Tower, and Green Tower at your own pace.
• Small-group size ensures a more intimate, personable experience.
• Price-to-value ratio is high, considering priority access and expert commentary.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour offers an excellent package for those wanting to maximize their time at the Tower of London. The included highlights—the opening ceremony, early access to the Crown Jewels, and guided storytelling—are carefully curated to suit history buffs, photo takers, and curious visitors alike.

The guided walk around the Tower’s exterior begins at the Tower of London shop, which is easy to find. From there, your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a scenic 25-minute walk along Tower Hill, where landmarks like Traitors Gate and the White Tower make for perfect photo opportunities. As some reviewers point out, this outside walk offers a chance to get acquainted with the grounds before entering the historic fortress.

The highlight of the tour, the opening ceremony, is a timeless tradition with military precision, infused with Beefeater wit. Watching the gates swing open is more than just a photo op; it’s a glimpse into centuries-old customs preserved to this day. As one reviewer put it, “it was wonderful to see the unlocking of the gate ceremony,” and the lively commentary from the Beefeaters keeps it engaging.

Next, your small group is led directly to the Crown Jewels—a prime perk of this early access tour. Usually, the jewels are packed with travelers, but arriving early means avoiding the big queues. You’ll be among the first to admire the sparkling crowns, diamonds, and scepters. Several reviewers commented on how this early peek was worth the price, with one noting that the queue was an hour long soon after they left.

After the jewels, you’re encouraged to explore at your own pace, with insider tips provided on must-visit spots like the Green Tower, where two of Henry VIII’s wives met their end, and Traitors Gate, notorious for its history of royal prisoners. The tour guide’s expertise shines through as they share captivating stories, making the short guided segment both fun and educational.

Itinerary Breakdown: From Exterior Walk to Hidden Corners

Start at the Tower of London shop, where you’ll meet your guide and get ready for the adventure. The initial outside walk along Tower Hill gives a scenic preview of the grounds, with plenty of historic landmarks visible from outside. Expect to hear stories about betrayals, executions, and royal secrets that add context to your visit.

Your next stop is the Tower Bridge, a quick 5-minute photo break where you can snap shots of this iconic structure with the Tower in the background. It’s a brief stop but provides excellent framing for your London photos.

Moving on, you’ll pass the Middle Tower, a quick pass-by that hints at the complex layout of the fortress. The real focus is inside the Tower, where your guide will lead you to the Guided Tour segment, lasting around 10 minutes, giving a concise overview of the Tower’s history and significance.

Focusing on the attractions, the Jewel House is next—where the Crown Jewels are kept—allowing a 15-minute visit. Here, you’ll see royal regalia, including crowns adorned with diamonds, scepters, and orbs. Reviewers appreciated the early access, which made the experience feel exclusive and less rushed.

Finally, you’ll spend approximately 15 minutes in the Crown Jewels exhibition, which is the tour’s highlight for many. Afterward, the tour concludes at the original meeting point, leaving you free to explore further or soak in the atmosphere.

Authentic Experiences & Hidden Gems

One aspect that critics and supporters agree on is how the guided storytelling adds depth to the experience. Lee, the guide praised by many, combines humor with historical insight, making the stories memorable. Several reviews mention how knowledgeable guides help them understand the significance of features like Traitors Gate and the Bloody Tower.

The green Tower—a lesser-visited site—is a highlight for those interested in the darker tales of royal intrigue. The guide’s tips on these secret corners help guests make the most of their visit, especially since the tour ends with free time to explore further.

Travelers also love the timing of this tour. Arriving early means you’re in the first wave of visitors, which translates into better photos, shorter lines, and a more relaxed experience overall. One reviewer noted, “Getting into the Crown Jewels before the crowds was worth every penny.”

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Practical Details & Tips

The duration of about 75 minutes strikes a good balance—long enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The group size of max 20 makes interaction with the guide easier and more personalized, according to many reviews.

The tour price of $111.79 per person is reasonable considering the exclusivity of early access and guided insights. For comparison, the value significantly increases if you appreciate the benefit of skipping lines and having a knowledgeable guide.

Meeting points are clearly communicated, with instructions to arrive 10-15 minutes early. The guide will be holding a sign marked “The Tour Guy” outside the Tower of London shop. The tour ends at the same location, making logistics simple.

Note that food and beverages are not included, so plan to eat beforehand or grab a snack afterward. Also, since the tour does not accommodate wheelchairs or participants with limited mobility, travelers with mobility issues might want to consider alternative options.

The Sum Up

This early access tour of the Tower of London offers a fantastic way to experience its most iconic sights without the hassle of crowds. The combination of a live Beefeater-led opening ceremony, insider tips, and first-look at the Crown Jewels makes it a standout choice for history buffs and photo enthusiasts alike.

The tour’s emphasis on personalized, small-group interactions ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the knowledgeable guides bring stories to life with humor and expertise. While the 75-minute duration means you’ll need to prioritize what to see, the early access and exclusive insights make it worth considering.

Ideal for travelers who want a meaningful, less chaotic visit, this tour provides a perfect blend of tradition, culture, and storytelling. Whether you’re visiting London for the first time or returning for a deeper dive, this experience is a memorable way to start your day at the Tower.

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive?
It’s best to arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure you meet your guide on time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour generally appeals to adults and older children interested in history, but it doesn’t specify age restrictions. Keep in mind the 75-minute duration and the walking involved.

Are there any transportation options included?
No, the tour starts at the Tower of London shop, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress weather-appropriate as you’ll be outside at the beginning of the tour.

Can I visit the Tower of London after the tour ends?
Absolutely. The tour concludes back at the starting point, allowing you to stay longer and explore other parts of the Tower at your own pace.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexible planning.

Does the tour include a guide inside the Tower?
The guided segment is outside, with a focus on the opening ceremony and initial landmarks. The time inside the Jewel House and Crown Jewels is self-guided.

Are there any food or drink options during the tour?
No, food and beverages are not included, so plan to eat before or after your visit.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, unfortunately, it does not accommodate wheelchairs or participants with limited mobility.

This detailed review should give you a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from the Tower of London: Early Access with Crown Jewels & Beefeaters tour. It combines history, tradition, and exclusivity, making it a worthwhile addition to your London itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: