Exploring the iconic Tower of London has long been a must-do for visitors to England’s capital. Now, travelers can take their experience to new heights with the Tower of London Early Access Tour led by the renowned Yeoman Warders. This exclusive tour grants early entry, bypassing the typical crowds, and immerses guests in the storied history of this royal fortress. From the awe-inspiring Crown Jewels to the chilling tales of past executions, the guided journey promises an unforgettable glimpse into the grandeur and grit that have defined the Tower of London for centuries. The only question that remains is – are you ready to uncover the secrets that lie within?
Key Points
- Early access to the Tower of London, bypassing long queues, led by an expert Yeoman Warder (Beefeater).
- Exclusive viewing of the dazzling Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive.
- In-depth exploration of the Tower’s history, traditions, and the site of three English queens’ executions.
- Opportunity to marvel at the splendor of the royal regalia used in ceremonial events.
- Seamless navigation of the Tower’s grounds, including the White Tower, Inner Ward, and Outer Ward.
Overview
This early access tour of the Tower of London allows visitors to bypass the long queues and explore the iconic landmark before it opens to the general public.
Guests will be led by a knowledgeable Yeoman Warder, who’ll share the rich history and traditions of the Tower’s famous ‘Beefeaters.’
The highlight is a guided tour through the Royal Palace and castle, including an up-close look at the dazzling Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive.
You’ll also visit the site where three English queens were executed and marvel at the stunning royal regalia used for ceremonies and coronations.
This exclusive tour offers an immersive experience you won’t find on a standard visit to the Tower of London.
Tour Highlights
Visitors can marvel at the dazzling Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive, providing an unparalleled opportunity to witness these magnificent royal treasures up close. The guided tour also delves into the rich history and captivating traditions of the Yeoman Warders, also known as the ‘Beefeaters,’ who share their knowledge and insights about the Tower’s storied past. Plus, guests will stand on the very grounds where three English queens met their tragic end, offering a sobering glimpse into the Tower’s tumultuous history.
| Tour Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Crown Jewels | See the dazzling royal regalia before the crowds arrive |
| Yeoman Warders | Learn about the history and traditions of the Tower’s iconic guards |
| Execution Site | Stand on the grounds where three English queens were executed |
| Royal Ceremonies | Marvel at the splendor of the regalia used in coronations and ceremonies |
Tour Details
The early access Tower of London tour offers visitors an immersive 75-minute experience guided by a knowledgeable Yeoman Warder, allowing them to skip the ticket line and explore the iconic royal castle at their own pace.
The tour begins at the Gunpowder Plot: The Immersive Experience and includes a one-hour guided tour of the Tower’s highlights.
Visitors will then have the chance to marvel at the Crown Jewels for 15 minutes, avoiding the usual long queues.
After that, they can freely explore the White Tower, Inner Ward, and Outer Ward for 15 minutes each.
While comfortable clothing and rain gear are recommended, non-flash photography is permitted throughout the tour.
Itinerary
Starting with a guided tour of the Tower of London, the early access experience takes visitors on a captivating 75-minute journey through the iconic royal castle.
From the beginning at the Gunpowder Plot: The Immersive Experience, the tour immerses guests in the rich history and traditions of the Yeoman Warders as they lead the way.
Next, guests will visit the awe-inspiring Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive, marveling at the royal regalia used for ceremonies and coronations.
The tour then allows for free time to explore the magnificent White Tower, Inner Ward, and Outer Ward at your own pace.
This early access experience ensures you beat the crowds and make the most of your time at the Tower of London.
Important Information
Comfortable shoes, rain gear, and loose-fitting clothes are recommended for the tour, as the Tower of London can be chilly and wet at times. Though non-flash photography is permitted, the experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the historic nature of the site. While the early access pass helps bypass the crowds, some areas may still be busy during standard operating hours.
The tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the Tower’s rich history and marvel at its stunning architecture, including:
- The iconic White Tower, a 900-year-old Norman keep
- The Royal Armories, home to a vast collection of historic weapons and armor
- The Bloody Tower, where two young princes were allegedly murdered
- The breathtaking Crown Jewels, sparkling with priceless gems and precious metals
Avoiding Crowds
By securing an early access pass, visitors can bypass the typically lengthy queues and explore the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive, ensuring an uninterrupted and immersive experience.
This exclusive tour takes advantage of the Tower’s quieter hours, allowing guests to marvel at the royal regalia without the hustle and bustle of the day. Navigating the historic grounds is far more serene and enjoyable when the site is less congested, enabling deeper engagement with the Yeoman Warders’ captivating narratives.
Plus, the early access pass helps visitors avoid the frustrating waits that can plague the Tower during peak visitation times, ensuring a smooth and efficient exploration of this iconic London landmark.
Yeoman Warders
The Yeoman Warders, also known as ‘Beefeaters,’ are the ceremonial guardians of the Tower of London who captivate visitors with their rich history and engaging narratives.
Dressed in their iconic Tudor-style uniforms, these highly trained former senior non-commissioned officers of the British Armed Forces guide guests through the fortress, regaling them with tales of its storied past as a royal residence, armory, treasury, and site of infamous executions.
From their distinctive red and gold outfits to their elaborate ceremonial duties, the Yeoman Warders bring the Tower’s history to life in a captivating and memorable way.
Visitors can marvel at their immaculate drill routines, learn about their role as keepers of the Crown Jewels, and be enthralled by their captivating storytelling.
Royal Regalia
At the heart of the Tower of London’s storied history lies the awe-inspiring Royal Regalia, a dazzling collection of ceremonial objects used during coronations and other royal occasions. Visitors can’t help but be captivated by the sheer opulence and significance of these meticulously crafted symbols of the British monarchy, which include the magnificent Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, the resplendent Imperial State Crown, and the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond, among countless other priceless treasures. The Crown Jewels display showcases the splendor of these regal artifacts, transporting visitors back in time and evoking the grandeur of the British royal tradition.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross | A sceptre topped with a cross, representing the monarch’s spiritual authority |
| Imperial State Crown | Worn by the sovereign at the end of the coronation ceremony, adorned with 2,868 diamonds |
| Koh-i-Noor Diamond | One of the largest cut diamonds in the world, set in the Queen Mother’s Crown |
| Orb | A globed symbol of the monarch’s divine right to rule, topped with a cross |
| Coronation Spoon | Used to anoint the monarch during the coronation ceremony |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take a Guided Tour With a Beefeater in Other Languages?
Yes, visitors can explore the Tower of London with a Beefeater guide in various languages. These immersive tours provide an engaging historical experience and allow guests to discover the tower’s fascinating stories through the eyes of its iconic guardians.
Is Food/Drink Available During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t include any food or drink during the experience. Visitors can explore the Tower’s cafes and restaurants before or after the guided tour to refuel. The focus is on providing an immersive historical experience.
What Is the Cancellation/Refund Policy for the Tour?
The cancellation and refund policy is flexible, allowing guests to receive a full refund if they cancel 24 hours prior to the tour. This offers customers peace of mind when booking their Tower of London adventure.
Can I Book This Tour as Part of a Larger London Vacation Package?
Yes, travelers can book this Tower of London early access tour as part of a larger London vacation package. Many tour operators offer this experience bundled with other top attractions and city sightseeing to create a comprehensive London getaway.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour accommodates groups of all sizes, from solo travelers to larger parties. While there’s no minimum, the maximum group size is limited to ensure an intimate and personalized experience with the knowledgeable Yeoman Warder guide.
Recap
The Tower of London Early Access Tour with Beefeater is a captivating experience that transports visitors back in time.
With exclusive access and expert guidance, guests can marvel at the Crown Jewels, explore royal history, and discover the fascinating rituals of the Yeoman Warders.
This unparalleled tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the splendor and legacy of one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
