Tower of London: Opening Ceremony & Early Crown Jewels Access

Uncover the hidden gems of the Tower of London with this exclusive tour. Witness the ceremonial opening of the gates, led by the iconic Yeoman Warders, and enjoy early access to the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive. This intimate experience offers a personalized glimpse into the Tower’s rich history, promising an unforgettable encounter. Explore the key areas of the Tower and discover captivating stories that will leave you eager to delve deeper into this iconic landmark’s past.

Key Points

• Exclusive early access to the Tower of London and Crown Jewels before public opening.
• Witness the ceremonial opening of the Tower’s gates by Yeoman Warders.
• Engaging stories and historical insights shared by knowledgeable Yeoman Warder guides.
• Intimate group size of up to 20 for personalized attention and interaction.
• Opportunities to take photos and ask questions with the iconic Beefeaters.

Tour Overview

The Tower of London Opening Ceremony provides visitors with early access to explore the Tower and see the Crown Jewels before the general public.

This VIP experience includes watching the ceremonial opening of the Tower’s gates, hearing stories from the Yeoman Warders, and exploring key landmarks like Traitor’s Gate and Bloody Tower.

With a maximum group size of 20, guests enjoy an intimate and immersive tour.

Operated by The Roman Guy Tours, the experience is priced from $83.45 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Meeting and Logistics

Travelers meet for the Tower of London Opening Ceremony at 68 Lower Thames St, City of London, London EC3R 6DL, UK.

Punctual arrival, 10-15 minutes before the scheduled start, is recommended. The tour concludes back at the meeting point.

This experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

Fortunately, the tour location is near public transportation.

Guests should be aware that this is an intimate group tour, with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides.

Included Features

This opening ceremony tour at the Tower of London includes early access to the Crown Jewels, allowing guests to marvel at these priceless treasures before the general public arrives.

Participants also witness the Tower’s iconic Gate Opening Ceremony, a centuries-old tradition performed by the Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters.

Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides provide engaging insights, giving visitors the opportunity to explore key historical sites like Traitor’s Gate and the Bloody Tower.

The small group size of 20 travelers or fewer ensures an intimate experience and ample interaction with the Beefeaters for photos and questions.

Reviews and Experiences

Guests have generally provided positive feedback on the Tower of London Opening Ceremony tour, awarding it an average rating of 4.2 stars out of 30 reviews.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and intimate group size, which allows for personalized attention. The highlights include being among the first to see the Crown Jewels and witness the opening ceremony.

However, some guests have expressed concerns about guide communication and the tour’s focus on specific aspects. Feedback emphasizes the importance of clear communication and flexibility in the tour structure to ensure a seamless and engaging experience for all participants.

Early Access to the Crown Jewels

One of the key highlights of the Tower of London Opening Ceremony tour is the opportunity to gain early access to the Crown Jewels.

Guests are among the first to admire these priceless royal treasures, including the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond, before the general public arrives. This exclusive access allows visitors to marvel at the spectacular jewels in a less crowded setting, providing a more intimate experience.

The tour’s timed entry ensures a smooth flow, minimizing waiting times. Exploring the Crown Jewels gallery with a knowledgeable guide adds depth to the experience, as they share fascinating historical insights about the collection.

The Tower Opening Ceremony

As the morning light begins to filter through the historic walls, the Tower of London’s iconic gates are ceremoniously opened in a time-honored tradition. This captivating Tower Opening Ceremony marks the start of the day, signaling the arrival of Yeoman Warders and the beginning of the public tour.

Time	Action	Participants
9:00 AM	The Chief Yeoman Warder emerges from the Byward Tower.	Chief Yeoman Warder, Yeoman Warders
9:01 AM	The Chief Yeoman Warder unlocks and opens the main gates.	Chief Yeoman Warder
9:02 AM	Visitors are welcomed into the Tower.	Visitors, Yeoman Warders

Witnessing this ceremonial opening allows guests to enjoy the Tower’s rich history and traditions, setting the stage for an unforgettable day at this iconic London landmark.

Interaction With Yeoman Warders

Following the ceremonial opening, visitors can now engage directly with the iconic Yeoman Warders, or "Beefeaters," who bring the Tower’s rich history to life.

These legendary guardians, dressed in their distinctive Tudor-style uniforms, share captivating stories and provide unique insights into the Tower’s past. Guests have the chance to interact with the Beefeaters, ask questions, and capture memorable photos.

This intimate experience allows travelers to delve deeper into the Tower’s complex history, from its role as a royal residence to its notorious use as a prison. The Beefeaters’ engaging narratives bring the fortress to life.

Exploring Key Areas of the Tower

Visitors explore a range of iconic areas within the Tower of London, each steeped in captivating history. They step through Traitor’s Gate, the infamous water entrance where prisoners were brought, and enter the Bloody Tower, the site of the mysterious disappearance of the Princes in the Tower.

The tour also takes them to the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels, one of the most dazzling collections in the world. Throughout the experience, guides share vivid stories and insights, allowing guests to enjoy the Tower’s rich past and uncover its many secrets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for This Tour?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, but there’s no information about discounts or promotions. Travelers should check the tour’s website for any special offers or deals that may be available.

Can I Take Photos or Videos Inside the Tower of London?

Yes, visitors can take photos and videos inside the Tower of London, except in the Crown Jewels exhibition where photography and filming are prohibited to protect the displays. The tour guide will provide clear guidance on what’s allowed.

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Dressing modestly is recommended as it’s a historically significant site. The focus is on exploring the Tower, not fashion.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Items During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase souvenirs and gifts during the tour. The tour operator provides opportunities to browse the Tower of London gift shop, where you’ll find a range of memorabilia and items related to the Crown Jewels and British history.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place for This Experience?

The tour operator implements COVID-19 safety protocols like reduced group sizes, mandatory face coverings, and enhanced cleaning. Guests should check the latest requirements before their visit.

The Sum Up

This exclusive Tower of London tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the historic opening ceremony and explore the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive. Led by knowledgeable Yeoman Warders, guests gain intimate access to this iconic landmark and its captivating past, creating a truly memorable experience. With limited group sizes, this tour provides a personalized and immersive glimpse into the Tower’s rich history.