London: Tower of London Early Access & Opening Ceremony Tour

Summary

Early entry to tower of london crown jewels and river cruise

You’ll slip into the Tower of London before regular visitors arrive, watch the opening ceremony with a small group, see the Crown Jewels without crowds, and explore ancient walls with a local guide who knows every odd story. Your day ends with a flexible river cruise pass—leaving you free to float down the Thames whenever you feel like it.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d ever feel nervous standing outside a place like the Tower of London — but there we were, just after sunrise, shuffling our feet in that chilly London air. Our guide, James (who had that dry British humor), handed out our passes and whispered something about “the best bit coming up.” Then suddenly, the Yeoman Warders appeared in their uniforms. The opening ceremony wasn’t loud or dramatic — more like a quiet ritual with keys and old words echoing off stone. It felt strange to be let in before anyone else. I kept glancing back at the empty bridge behind us.

Inside, it was almost silent except for the sound of boots on flagstones and one raven making this weird clucking noise. We headed straight for the Jewel House — no lines at all. James pointed out details on one of the crowns (I can’t remember which king — sorry James) and told us to look for tiny inscriptions on some of the swords. The jewels themselves are…well, you just have to see them. I caught myself grinning like a kid. There’s this faint metallic smell in those rooms, maybe from all that gold? Or maybe just my imagination running wild.

We wandered along the walls after that, peeking into Edward I’s bedroom (felt odd seeing such an old bed) and then pausing by the ravens. One of them hopped right up to us — apparently they’re minor celebrities here. Someone asked if they could take it home; James just laughed and said “only if you want London to fall.” The White Tower was last — so much armor everywhere, and these narrow staircases where you have to watch your step or risk embarrassment. At some point I lost track of time completely.

The tour wrapped up with a flexible river cruise pass — which honestly felt like a treat after all that walking. We ended up drifting past Westminster later that afternoon, watching sunlight flicker off the Thames. I still think about how quiet those first moments were inside the Tower compared to everything outside. If you get a chance at early access, take it — there’s something about seeing history wake up before everyone else does.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — VIP Tower of London and River Cruise

• Watch the Opening Ceremony
• Meet the Yeoman Warders
• Visit the Jewel House and Crown Jewels
• Walk along the Tower Walls
• See Edward I’s bedroom and ravens
• Tour the White Tower
• Receive flexible river cruise pass

Top questions

What time does the VIP early access Tower of London tour start?

The tour begins early in the morning before regular opening hours; exact times vary by season but always allow entry before general admission.

Does this tour include seeing the Crown Jewels?

Yes, you’ll be among the first people admitted to see the Crown Jewels during your visit.

Is hotel pickup included for this Tower of London tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; public transportation options are nearby for easy access.

How long does this Tower of London & river cruise experience last?

The full experience including opening ceremony lasts several hours; there’s also a 2.5-hour option without ceremony if short on time.

Is lunch provided during this tour?

No meals are included; only guided touring and entry tickets plus a flexible river cruise pass are provided.

Can guests with mobility impairments join this walking tour?

This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchairs due to stairs and uneven surfaces.

What’s included with the flexible river cruise pass?

You receive a one-way ticket valid from several piers (Tower, Westminster, Greenwich or London Eye) at your chosen time on any day.

What’s included

Your day includes early skip-the-line entry to both the Tower of London and Jewel House with first access to see the Crown Jewels, expert storytelling from an English-speaking local guide who brings centuries-old stories alive as you walk through ancient halls and ramparts together—and wraps up with a flexible one-way sightseeing river cruise ticket so you can float down the Thames at your own pace afterward.