Tower of London: Early Access with Crown Jewels & Beefeaters

The Tower of London: Early Access with Crown Jewels & Beefeaters offers a unique way to experience one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Priced at $111.79 per person and lasting approximately 75 minutes, this tour is designed for those eager to beat the crowds and explore the Tower’s fascinating history. It includes early access to the Crown Jewels, a century-old opening ceremony, and engaging stories from friendly Beefeaters.

The tour starts at the Tower of London Shop, where a small group of up to 20 participants gathers for a personalized experience. With a focus on in-depth guided commentary, guests get a front-row view of Traitors Gate, the Bloody Tower, and more. The expert guide leads the way through the grounds, sharing lively stories and insider tips, making this a compelling choice for history buffs and first-time visitors alike.

While the 75-minute duration keeps the experience manageable, travelers should prepare for a walk, some standing, and weather-dependent clothing. The tour’s excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, early entry benefits, and the enjoyment of avoiding crowded lines, though some note the shorter tour length and group size can feel rushed at times.

Key Points

• Early access allows you to beat the crowds and see the Crown Jewels with minimal wait times.
• Expert guides lead lively, storytelling-style explanations of Tower of London’s history and secrets.
• The opening ceremony with the Beefeaters is a highlight, showcasing a tradition spanning over a century.
• The tour includes a visit to the Green Tower, Bloody Tower, Traitors Gate, and other historic sites.
• Small group size of maximum 20 enhances personal attention and interaction.
• The tour does not include transportation, meals, or wheelchair access but offers great value for a 75-minute immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at the Tower of London Shop for a Personal Welcome

The tour begins at the Tower of London Shop, where guests are asked to arrive 10-15 minutes early. Here, a friendly guide greets the group and begins the experience with a walk around the exterior of the Tower. The guided exterior walk lasts about 25 minutes, giving guests a chance to see landmarks like Tower Hill, Tower Bridge, and the Middle Tower from outside.

During this initial phase, the guide shares captivating stories about the Tower’s intrigue, betrayals, and defenses. The scenic views along the route help set the scene for what’s to come inside the historic fortress. This outdoor introduction gives visitors a sense of the Tower’s strategic location and military importance, perfect for setting expectations for the inside tour.

Witnessing the Century-Old Opening Ceremony

One of the standout features of this tour is attending the historic opening ceremony. The Beefeaters perform this tradition with military precision, opening the gates in a lively display. Guests watch as the grand gates swing open, marking the start of the day’s activities and giving a front-row view of this centuries-old ritual.

The witty commentary from the Beefeaters during the ceremony adds humor and personality, making it more than just a formal event. This tradition, dating back over 100 years, offers a glimpse into the royal and military customs that continue to define the Tower’s role today.

Early Access to the Crown Jewels Collection

After the opening ceremony, guests proceed directly to the Crown Jewels. Here, the early access means you are among the first in line, avoiding the usual crowds that flock later in the day. The dazzling collection includes crowns, scepters, and sparkling diamonds, all displayed in the Jewel House.

This intimate viewing experience is a highlight for many, as the fewer visitors allow for a more relaxed and awe-inspiring look at these priceless treasures. The guide provides insider tips on the best spots to observe pieces and shares stories about their significance and history.

Exploring the Bloody Tower, Traitors Gate, and Other Historic Sites

Following the jewels, guests are encouraged to explore independently at their own pace. The tour guide offers valuable recommendations for places such as the Bloody Tower, where some of Henry VIII’s wives met their end, and Traitors Gate, famous for its role in royal history.

Additional sites like the White Tower come into view, offering a sense of the Tower’s defensive architecture and its evolution over centuries. The free time allows for more photos, questions, or quiet reflection while soaking in the atmosphere of this medieval fortress.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Role of the Guided Tour in Enhancing the Experience

Throughout the 75-minute experience, the friendly, English-speaking guide provides engaging, informative commentary. The reviews consistently praise guides like Ben, Margarite, and Suzanne for their knowledge, humor, and ability to answer questions.

Along With the core sights, the guide shares insider tips for visiting other parts of the Tower, such as the Green Tower, where Henry VIII’s wives are thought to have met their fates. The personalized attention in small groups of up to 20 allows for more interaction and a more detailed understanding of the Tower’s stories.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Duration

The meeting point is in front of the Tower of London shop, with check-in recommended 10-15 minutes before the scheduled departure. The tour starts promptly and concludes back at the same location, making it easy for those with tight schedules.

The small group size of up to 20 enhances personal interaction and ensures guests aren’t lost among larger crowds. The overall duration of 75 minutes keeps the experience lively without tiring visitors, but some reviews note that the short tour length may feel tight for covering all aspects.

Accessibility and Limitations of the Tour

While the tour is rich in content, it does not accommodate wheelchairs or participants with limited mobility. Guests should wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing since parts of the experience involve walking outdoors and standing.

The tour does not include hotel transportation or food but offers excellent value for the price considering the early access, expert guidance, and unique ceremonies included.

Comparing This Tour with Other Options

This early access experience is a standout choice for visitors wanting preferential entry and a more personalized, less crowded visit. Unlike some other tours that may focus solely on the exhibits or self-guided visits, this tour combines guided storytelling, a historic ceremony, and independent exploration.

Other experiences may include private access or additional stops, but the combination of early entry, lively guides, and historic traditions makes this tour particularly appealing.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and first-time visitors to the Tower of London who want to maximize their time and avoid the crowds. The small group size and friendly guides make it suitable for those seeking a personalized experience with informative stories.

However, those with mobility issues or seeking a longer, more comprehensive visit might find the 75-minute duration too brief or the physical layout limiting. Still, for a focused, lively introduction to the Tower’s highlights, this tour offers great value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for guests comfortable with walking and standing, and children should be able to follow the guided commentary and enjoy the sites. It does not specify age restrictions, but younger children should be prepared for outdoor walking.

Does this tour include transportation?
No, the tour starts and ends at the Tower of London shop. Guests must arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as parts of the tour involve outdoor walking and standing.

Can I bring food or drinks?
Food and beverages are not included and are not specified as part of the tour. Outside food or drinks are generally not permitted inside the Tower.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour does not accommodate wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.

How long is the tour?
The guided experience lasts approximately 75 minutes, including the exterior walk, opening ceremony, and Crown Jewels visit.

What makes this tour different from other Tower of London experiences?
The early access, historic opening ceremony, and small group size differentiate it from standard guided visits, providing a more intimate and less crowded exploration.

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

Are there any additional costs?
No, the price includes the guided tour, opening ceremony, early access to the Crown Jewels, and visits to Traitors Gate, Bloody Tower, and more. Food, drinks, and transportation are not included.

Is the tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the schedule, but travelers should check current dates for open slots and start times.

How do I find the guide?
The guide is located in front of the Tower of London shop, holding a “The Tour Guy” sign, and is ready 10-15 minutes before departure.

This Tower of London early access tour combines tradition, storytelling, and exclusive viewing in a compact, engaging package. It offers a memorable way to explore London’s historic fortress with the added advantage of early entry and smaller crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby