London’s iconic Tower and the Changing of the Guards ceremony are two of the city’s must-see attractions. Combining early access to the Tower’s Crown Jewels with a scenic River Thames cruise and premier viewing spots for the Guards’ performance, this captivating tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the capital’s royal history. Guided by knowledgeable experts, this immersive experience promises an unforgettable adventure that delves into the heart of London’s storied past.

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Key Points

This guided tour offers early access to the Tower of London and a chance to witness the Changing of the Guards ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
The 3.5-4 hour experience includes a 75-minute guided tour of the Tower of London and a 30-minute River Thames cruise.
Guests can explore the Crown Jewels and other historic sights before the general public, with expert guides providing rich historical commentary.
Premier viewing spots are secured for the Changing of the Guards ceremony, providing an immersive and engaging experience.
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, and schedules are subject to change, so travelers should confirm details in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Tower of London Experience offers visitors a chance to explore London’s royal landmarks with a guided tour.

The tour includes a visit to the Tower of London, where you’ll witness the Beefeaters, and a River Thames cruise. Priced at $109.11 per person, the tour lasts 3.5-4 hours.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The experience provides early access to the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels, as well as prime viewing positions for the Changing of the Guards ceremony.

Looking for more options in London? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at either The Gunpowder Plot: The Immersive Experience or the Tower of London, the guided tour takes visitors through a 75-minute exploration of the iconic fortress.

Guests then embark on a 30-minute boat cruise along the River Thames, offering views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and Shakespeare’s Globe.

The tour culminates with the Changing of the Guards ceremony, a 1.5-hour spectacle of pageantry and tradition at Buckingham Palace.

Though subject to change, the tour’s carefully curated itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience, blending London’s royal history and iconic landmarks.

Notable Features

One notable feature of the Tower of London experience is the early access visitors enjoy to the iconic fortress and the Crown Jewels. This exclusive opportunity allows guests to avoid the crowds and explore these treasures at a more leisurely pace. Plus, the tour provides prime viewing positions for the iconic Changing of the Guards ceremony, ensuring an unobstructed view of this historic military tradition. Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guides provide captivating commentary on the storied history of English monarchs, bringing the site’s past to life.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Early Tower Access | Skip the lines and explore the fortress and Crown Jewels before the general public. |

| Changing of the Guards | Secure premier viewing spots for this iconic military ceremony. |

| Historical Commentary | Engage with expert guides who share the rich history of the site and its royal occupants. |

| Sights Along the Thames | Enjoy scenic views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and Shakespeare’s Globe during the river cruise. |

Important Information

Visitors should be aware that the Tower of London experience may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

There’s no guiding inside the Jewel House and White Tower.

The Changing of the Guards ceremony may be rescheduled or canceled, in which case a Westminster walking tour will be offered instead.

The ceremony takes place at different locations – the Foot Guards at Buckingham Palace and the Horse Guards at Horse Guards Parade.

Saturday features the Guard Mounting ceremony.

Travelers should confirm schedules and plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.

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Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the Tower of London tour receives an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 88 reviews.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, with many highlighting the quality of the commentary and the informative nature of the tour. Reviewers express satisfaction with the prime viewing positions for the Changing of the Guards ceremony and the overall enjoyment of the experience.

The tour’s highlights, including early access to the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels, further contribute to the positive feedback from customers.

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Exploring the Tower of London

Although the Tower of London boasts a rich and storied history, the guided tour provides visitors with an immersive experience, unveiling the fortress’s captivating past. Guests are treated to an up-close view of the iconic Beefeaters, learning about their roles as ceremonial guardians. Inside the tower walls, the Crown Jewels exhibit dazzles with its display of priceless regalia. Visitors can explore the haunting Bloody Tower, where many historical figures were imprisoned and executed. The tour culminates in a serene cruise along the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city’s landmarks.

| Site | Duration |

| — | — |

| Tower of London | 75 minutes |

| River Thames Cruise | 30 minutes |

| Changing of the Guards | 1.5 hours |

Witnessing the Changing of the Guards

The Changing of the Guards ceremony is perhaps the most anticipated highlight of the Tower of London experience.

Visitors are treated to a spectacular display of military precision as the new guard unit marches in perfect synchronization, their scarlet tunics and bearskin hats commanding attention.

The ceremony includes:

The Old Guard marching out to the sound of the regimental band.
The New Guard marching in, their weapons gleaming in the sunlight.
Intricate drills and maneuvers as the Guards exchange duties.
Photo opportunities as the Guards pose for visitors.

The Changing of the Guards is a quintessential London tradition not to be missed.

Enhancing Your London Experience

Wondering how to make the most of your London experience? Consider adding a River Thames cruise to your Tower of London tour.

This 30-minute boat ride offers picturesque views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral and Shakespeare’s Globe.

Plus, securing prime viewing positions for the Changing of the Guards ceremony ensures you witness this time-honored tradition in all its splendor.

With early access to the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels, you’ll beat the crowds and learn about the rich history of England’s monarchs.

Tailor your tour to create an unforgettable London adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Tower of London?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside the Tower of London, though photography isn’t allowed in the Jewel House where the Crown Jewels are displayed. Visitors should check for any restrictions before taking photos on the tour.

Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. The price covers the guided tour of the Tower of London, River Thames cruise, and viewing of the Changing of the Guards ceremony.

Is the Tour Available in Different Languages?

The tour is available in multiple languages. Guests can choose from English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German. This allows visitors from around the world to enjoy the experience in their preferred language.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, but you can choose your starting point and the Changing of the Guards ceremony type to suit your preferences. However, the overall tour duration and activities are fixed.

What Is the Dress Code for the Changing of the Guards?

There’s no strict dress code for the Changing of the Guards, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Avoid wearing anything too casual like pajamas or beachwear. Smart casual attire is suitable to enjoy the ceremony in comfort.

The Sum Up

Experience London’s rich history and iconic sights with the Tower of London and Changing of the Guard tour. Explore the fortress’s past, witness the impressive Changing of the Guards ceremony, and enjoy a scenic River Thames cruise, all led by knowledgeable experts. This captivating blend of history and royal pageantry promises an unforgettable adventure.