Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters
Witness a centuries-old tradition before seeing the crown jewels with fewer crowds
By the time most arrive, the Tower of London is already bustling, its secrets diluted by the crowds. This exclusive early-morning tour grants you a front-row spot as the Beefeaters unlock the gates with ceremonial flair—a sight few ever witness. Capture an intimate photo with the guards, then be among the first to marvel at the Crown Jewels. With a guide to reveal the Tower’s darkest corners and chilling tales, this is London history at its most electrifying and personal.
- Meeting point at Tower of London shop
- Open Tower of London Gates
- Crown Jewels
- Beefeater's Quarters
- Crown Jewels
- Traitor's Gate
- Bloody Tower
- Tower Green
- Royal Bedrooms
- End at White Tower
Meet your engaging local guide near the entrance of the Tower of London where you'll gather with your small group to witness the traditional opening ceremony by the Beefeaters. It's a surprisingly fun experience despite how important it is too. Afterwards, enjoy a guided tour to see the Tower’s highlights like seeing the crown jewels, meeting the resident ravens, and learning a darker side of English history.
Early Access Tower of London Tour Description
Your 2-hour guided tour includes:
Tower of London opening ceremony
Fun stories and pictures with the Beefeaters
Early access to the crown jewels
In-depth guided tour with Traitor’s Gate, Bloody Tower, and more
Friendly, knowledgeable tour guide
Maximum group size of 20
Open the Tower of London Gates
Your early-access Tower of London tour starts with military precision—and more laughs than you might expect. The Beefeaters fulfill this opening ceremony tradition that dates back to the 15th century! It's a serious affair only because the fortress is actually considered an active palace that the reining monarch could live in, if needed.
Follow your guide for a great view of this unique event. You'll hear the guards perform as if it's a dramatic, royal proclamation. But the Beefeaters also know how to entertain you as you watch them prepare the fortress for visitors, so expect some interactions with you and your group.
Early Access to the Crown Jewels
With your early access, you have the option to head straight to the Jewel House and avoid what later becomes an hour-long line to get in. Enjoy your quieter viewing of the most valuable items in British history. On the way there from the gate, your guide will share fascinating details about the 140 valuables bedazzled by priceless stones and coronation regalia of the English monarchy.
Some older items were destroyed during the English Civil War when the monarchy was temporarily abolished, but the collection was rebuilt in 1660 and remains an incredible display of royal riches. Watch for the oldest piece in the collection!
The Bloody Tower, Tower Green, and More
Established in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, this imposing fortress on the River Thames has played prison, palace, armory, and execution house through its long history. The iconic resident ravens will be watching from the walls as your guide leads you to the most important sites.
You'll see where prisoners were brought in from the river at Traitor’s Gate, the royal chapel, the Bloody Tower, and Tower Green where two of Henry VIII’s wives were executed. With all that and more, it's lucky you're with a guide to navigate this fortress and understand just what you're seeing!
The White Tower
The castle keep at the center of the Tower of London grounds was established by William the Conqueror as a symbol of Britain’s new power. It holds nearly 1,000 years of history within its thick stone walls that you can explore. Guides are not allowed in this building, but they'll be happy to share what you should watch for if you want to explore it on your own after your tour ends.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
41 total reviews
Leave a reviewAimee Lindstrand
Chad Anthony
Knowledgeable Tour Guide
Jennifer O'Connor
Jeremy was very knowledgeable on matters regarding the Tower of London. The tour was interesting and well run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Please wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes to suit the weather forecast.
What to bring?
Please wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes to suit the weather forecast.
Can I take photos at the Tower of London?
Photography is allowed in most areas, with the exception of the Jewel House and the Chapel of St. John.
Will the tour guide be with me the whole time?
Mostly, yes. However, the Tower of London does not allow licensed guides to enter the Jewel House or the White Tower. Your guide will share tons of fascinating information about these sites to prepare you to visit on your own.
Do we enter the tower before the crowds?
Mostly, yes. There are limited tickets for the opening ceremony so the general public won't be inside yet.
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