London: Tower of London Early Access & Beefeater Tour

Summary

Early morning at the Tower, Crown Jewels first, riverside city stories

You’ll slip into the Tower of London before crowds arrive, watch Beefeaters open ancient gates, and see royal jewels up close. Cruise along the Thames while your guide shares city secrets, then catch either the Changing of the Guard or explore Westminster on foot. This day feels both grand and personal—moments you’ll remember long after you’ve left those old stones behind.

What’s the experience like?

I never thought I’d feel almost alone inside the Tower of London. We shuffled in just after sunrise—still chilly, air kind of sharp—and our Beefeater guide was already cracking dry jokes about ravens and royal secrets. The stone felt cold under my hand. I could smell wet grass from the moat. When they unlocked those ancient doors for us, it was weirdly quiet for a place with such heavy history. I caught myself whispering near the Crown Jewels (they really do sparkle, but not in a cartoon way—more like old light through glass). Honestly, I didn’t expect to care that much about royal stuff, but standing there with no crowds made it hit different.

Afterwards, we hopped onto a Thames river boat—the city looked softer from the water somehow. Our guide pointed out all these odd details you’d miss on your own (like why some bridges are painted blue). The wind off the river made me zip my jacket all the way up. Depending on your day, you get either the Changing of the Guard or a walking tour through Westminster. We got lucky with Horse Guards—those boots on cobblestone echo louder than you’d think. There was this little kid next to me who saluted back at one of them and nearly fell over laughing when he got a wink.

The tour wraps outside Buckingham Palace. People lingered for photos—I just stood there for a minute watching everyone’s faces tilt up towards those gates. It’s funny how places you’ve seen in movies or textbooks can suddenly feel real and close when you’re actually there. I still think about that hush inside the Tower before London woke up; it sticks with you more than any postcard ever could.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tower of London and London landmarks

• Early access Tower of London visit
• Watch Tower opening ceremony with Beefeater
• See the Crown Jewels
• Optional Thames River boat cruise
• Attend Changing of the Guards or Westminster walking tour
• Tour ends outside Buckingham Palace

Top questions

Is early access to the Tower of London included?

Yes, this tour includes VIP early-access tickets so you enter before regular visitors.

Can I see the Crown Jewels without crowds?

Yes, early entry means you'll be among the first to view them that day.

Does this tour include a Thames River cruise?

The river cruise is included if you select an upgrade option and book before January 2026.

What happens if Changing of the Guard is cancelled?

If cancelled due to weather or scheduling, you'll get a guided walking tour of Westminster instead.

Are guides allowed inside every part of the Tower?

No guiding is allowed inside Jewel House or White Tower due to venue rules; those parts are self-guided.

Is lunch included in this tour?

No meals are included; only guided experiences and entry fees are covered.

Is there hotel pickup for this tour?

No hotel pickup is provided; you'll meet at a central location near public transport.

Are headsets provided during guided portions?

Yes, headsets are provided when needed so you can always hear your guide clearly.

What’s included

Your day includes VIP early-access tickets to the Tower of London with Beefeater-led opening ceremony, expert English-speaking guide throughout most stops (with headsets as needed), an optional Thames river cruise if selected before 2026, plus either attendance at Changing of the Guard or a fully guided walking tour through Westminster—depending on schedule and weather. From January 2026 onward, you'll use a multilingual app for your self-guided visit inside the Tower itself.