VIP Early Access: Opening Ceremony Tower of London & Bridge Entry

The Tower of London is a captivating landmark steeped in centuries of history. Witnessing the iconic opening ceremony led by the Chief Beefeater offers an exclusive opportunity to take in the pageantry of the past. Coupled with early access to the Crown Jewels and exploration of the White Tower, this VIP experience promises a memorable start to the day. But the journey continues, as guests gain exclusive entry to the renowned Tower Bridge, unveiling its engineering marvels and offering stunning panoramic views.

Key Points

• Exclusive VIP access to the 700-year-old Tower of London Opening Ceremony, featuring a ceremonial march and historical recitation by the Chief Beefeater.
• Early access to the Crown Jewels exhibit, including the Koh-i-Noor diamond and the Coronation Spoon, with detailed explanations of the regal regalia.
• Exploration of the iconic 11th-century Romanesque keep of the White Tower, featuring the Chapel of St. John’s and exhibits on medieval architecture and history.
• Panoramic views from the high-level walkways of the Tower Bridge Exhibition, 42 meters above the River Thames, with access to the original Victorian engine rooms.
• Highly recommended 3-4 hour tour with a maximum of 20 travelers, providing an immersive and crowd-free experience at the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.

Tour Overview

This VIP early access tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the architecture and traditions of the iconic Tower of London and Tower Bridge.

The 3-4 hour experience accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, with a highly recommended rating of 93% from over 500 reviews.

The tour includes early access to avoid crowds at the Crown Jewels and exploration of the 11th-century Romanesque Chapel of St. John’s in the White Tower.

At the end, guests visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition for panoramic views, before concluding the tour at the bridge itself.

Tower of London Opening Ceremony

Witnessing the 700-year-old Opening Ceremony with the Chief Beefeater is a highlight of the VIP early access tour. As the sun rises, the Beefeater leads a ceremonial march, reciting the history of the Tower and its iconic guardians. Guests get an exclusive view of this solemn tradition, experiencing the grandeur and pageantry that has captivated visitors for centuries.

Ceremony Details
Tradition	700 years old
Participants	Chief Beefeater and guests
Timing	at sunrise
Highlights	Ceremonial march, historical recitation
Exclusivity	VIP early access only

The Tower’s rich history and traditions come alive through this captivating experience, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration of the iconic fortress.

Early Access to Crown Jewels

After the captivating Opening Ceremony, the VIP tour grants guests early access to the Tower’s most prized possession – the Crown Jewels.

This exclusive opportunity allows visitors to:

1. Admire the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond, one of the largest in the world.
2. Marvel at the glistening Coronation Spoon, dating back to the 14th century.
3. Discover the importance of the Imperial State Crown, worn by the sovereign during the coronation ceremony.
4. Explore the stunning display of sparkling scepters, orbs, and other regal regalia.

This early access ensures travelers can thoroughly explore the Crown Jewels without the typical crowds, providing an unparalleled experience.

Exploring the White Tower

The White Tower, the iconic 11th-century Romanesque keep, stands as the centerpiece of the Tower of London complex. Towering over the grounds, it houses the Chapel of St. John’s, a stunning example of early medieval architecture.

Visitors can explore the tower’s interior, which features exhibits showcasing the history and significance of this ancient structure. The chapel’s intricate stone carvings and vaulted ceilings transport guests back in time, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of the past.

Exploring the White Tower offers a unique opportunity to take in the architectural marvels and rich heritage of the Tower of London.

Tower Bridge Exhibition

As part of the VIP early access tour, visitors can explore the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which offers panoramic views from the high-level walkways.

The exhibition provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into the engineering and history behind this iconic landmark.

Visitors can:

1. Walk across the high-level walkways, suspended 42 meters above the River Thames.
2. Learn about the bridge’s construction and the Victorian-era technology that made it possible.
3. Descend into the original Victorian engine rooms to see the inner workings.
4. Enjoy breathtaking views of London’s skyline from the glass-floored viewing platforms.

Tour Inclusions

The VIP early access tour to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge includes all necessary entrance tickets, allowing visitors to bypass the long queues and gain early access to the sites.

A knowledgeable guide accompanies the group, providing historical context and insights throughout the experience.

The tour starts at the Tower Hill Tube Station, with the group meeting 15 minutes before the scheduled departure.

The experience culminates at the iconic Tower Bridge, where guests can explore the exhibition and take in the panoramic views.

All inclusions ensure a seamless and enriching exploration of these London landmarks.

Tour Requirements and Accessibility

While the VIP early access tour to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge caters to a range of travelers, it’s important to consider the physical requirements and accessibility.

This tour involves:

1. Moderate physical fitness, as there’s a significant amount of walking and standing.
2. Not being wheelchair accessible, making it unsuitable for travelers with limited mobility.
3. Requiring adults to accompany any participants under 18 years old.
4. Dressing appropriately for the weather and wearing comfortable shoes.

Guests with health concerns should consult their doctor before booking this tour.

Guest Feedback and Experiences

What do guests say about their experiences on this VIP early access tour of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge? Based on over 500 reviews, 93% of travelers highly recommend this unique opportunity. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides who bring history to life, from witnessing the Chief Beefeater’s ceremony to exploring the iconic landmarks. Many highlight the value of early access to avoid crowds and fully immerse themselves. However, some suggest more time allocated for the Tower before visiting the Bridge. This tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into London’s rich past and architectural marvels.

Positive Feedback	Neutral Feedback	Negative Feedback
Knowledgeable guides	Timing issues	Insufficient time at Tower
Engaging ceremonies	–	Suggested more Tower exploration
Unique experiences	–	–

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Opening Ceremony?

Photography is generally allowed during the opening ceremony at the Tower of London. However, travelers should be respectful and avoid disrupting the ceremony. Specific rules may apply, so it’s best to check with the tour guide before taking photos.

Is There an Audio Tour Available for the Tower of London?

Yes, the Tower of London offers an audio tour that provides informative commentary about the site’s history and key attractions. Visitors can use their own devices to access the audio tour and explore the Tower at their own pace.

Do the Beefeaters Provide Any Special Souvenirs?

The beefeaters do not provide any special souvenirs. The tour focuses on providing early access to the Crown Jewels and witnessing the 700-year-old opening ceremony, rather than offering exclusive beefeater merchandise or keepsakes.

Is There a Discounted Ticket for Seniors?

No, the tour does not offer discounted tickets for seniors. The tour has a fixed price for all participants, and there are no special discounts mentioned in the provided information.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. Guests are advised to eat before the tour or purchase refreshments at the on-site cafés and restaurants. Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted during the tour.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the rich history and grandeur of the Tower of London with VIP early access to the iconic opening ceremony, followed by exclusive entry to Tower Bridge for stunning panoramic views. This unforgettable experience provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness centuries-old traditions and explore the engineering marvels that define these iconic landmarks, ensuring a truly memorable start to your day.