Early Access Tower of London, Crown Jewels & Thames River Cruise
Overview
Available languages
4 hours 45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Skip the line and start your morning inside the Tower of London, a former royal residence, and experience history brought to life. You’ll admire the precious Crown Jewels and then enjoy an hour to explore at your own pace. Next, soak in views of Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, The Shard, and more on a relaxing river cruise down the River Thames. You'll disembark in Westminster, where you'll set off on a walking tour. Learn why each stop earned its spot in England's royal and political history as you pass Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and end with a peaceful stroll through St. James' Park. This walking tour covers London's main sites in under 5 hours.
Unlock even more Tower of London secrets and watch the storied Opening Ceremony by selecting the Opening Ceremony option when booking. After the Opening Ceremony, you'll enjoy a complete tour of the Tower of London with a certified Blue Badge Guide and finish with a relaxing river cruise down the River Thames.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
This tour is in English.
This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
Please note: base on your the option you select your itinerary might change slightly.
Note: the Opening Ceremony option does not include a royal history walking tour of Westminster.
Note: If the Opening Ceremony option is selected the tour will end at the Tower of London.
What To Expect
Jewel House
Meet your local tour leader and head into the tower. You'll head straight to the Jewel House, which means you’ll be able to grab a prime spot to view the Crown Jewels. If you want to start your Tower of London tour with a behind-the-scenes look of day-to-day life at the Tower, select the Opening Ceremony option when booking. The Opening Ceremony is a notable military ritual that officially opens the famous historical edifice. After the Opening Ceremony, your tour will continue to the Jewel House.
Tower of London
You'll have free time to explore the entire complex at your own pace. Your tour leader will share suggestions based on your interests. By the end of your visit, you'll be equipped with the complete story of the Tower and its importance as a symbol of royal, state and historic power.
Options
Best of London Tour Option
Duration: 4 hours 45 minutes Tower of London & River Cruise: Early entry to Crown Jewels, History walk, Tower of London & River Cruise. DOES NOT include Opening Ceremony
VIP Opening Ceremony Option
Duration: 3 hours VIP Access Upgrade & Cruise: See the opening ceremony and Crown Jewels before the crowds. Full tour of the Tower with & river cruise. NO history walk
What‘s Included
Guided walk past Buckingham Palace, Big Ben & Westminster Abbey
Cruise on the River Thames with views of Tower Bridge, St Pauls Catherdral & Shakespeare's Globe
Entrance to Tower of London with first access to Crown Jewels
Explore the Tower viewing Blood Gates, the legendary ravens & the castle walls Ca
Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
Gratuities
Entrance to other monuments
Guided tour of Tower of London
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
136 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great overview
Debra R,Jun 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved all the History. Great concise information that was understandable.
Great Tour, But Lots of Cobblestone Walking!
Jay K,Jun 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a fabulous tour. But the level of walking, particularly on uneven cobblestones streets & paths, & up steep, narrow stairwells was definitely a little tough on my old (& fat) legs. I pushed through, but it was hot & tough - as it was about 10 - 15 degrees warmer than normal. But Yulija our guide was great, found shadier spots for her group to stand & learn all about the Tower & its former “guests.” And we even entered through the infrequently used “Anne Boleyn door!” Yulijia ran a great tour - we learned SO much about the Tower & who lived there, died there, & live there today, it was spectacular! A great tour, worth the price.
Tour
thomasfW6393TO,Jun 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Our guide Angie was very knowledgeable. We are grateful to Molly who helped get us connected with the tour when the wrong meeting place was given
Great overview and our tour guide was so informative!
458lorit,Jun 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour of the tower of London right on the boat and then a walk-through history.
Fun informative Tower of London tour.
Janet W,Jun 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was great. Tower of London could be a full day. So much to see. Danny was an excellent tour guide. Very informative.
Great tour!
J7200QDrickv,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Danny was excellent. Great insight into tons of fascinating landmarks.
The tour was fabulous! Phillip Scott was a wonderful guide! He knew so much history and background on the Royals!
Adventure574053,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Phillip made our tour great! We covered so much ground in London!
Excellent combination of...
Marilyn H,May 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent combination of walking, boat ride with an experienced, knowledgeable guide. Free time to explore the Tower of London.
Wonderful
640rosemariep,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Sue was amazing! Very knowledgeable… be ready to do some walking 😉
Great guide, great tour
591sandil,May 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Sue was a great guide. She gave us information, history, and made the experience fun.
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