Tower of London Early Access Tour

Walking Tour

3 hrs

London

The Tower of London, while an incredibly worthwhile site, can be overwhelming by itself—a situation exacerbated by the throngs that visit every day. For those looking to skip the crowds and get an exclusive Tower of London Early Access Tour—including a look at the Crown Jewels—we offer a private, early morning visit before the Tower opens to the public. Together, in the company of a historian specializing in English history, we'll learn about kings and queens, political intrigue, and the history of this magnificent structure.

Tour Description

We start the tour at 8 AM, 90 minutes before the opening to the public. After a short introduction, we will be met by one of the Yeoman Warders who will open the gates of the Tower for us. On our way to the Jewel House, we will learn about the history of this Royal Palace and prison, including how its role has changed through the centuries. Once we've arrived at the Jewel House, we will be greeted by the Duty Exhibitor and be invited through to the Treasury for a private viewing of the Crown Jewels.

Exclusive Early Access

After this, we may be able to visit the cell in which Thomas More was kept for 15 months. This atmospheric cell is accessed only through the Queen's House and is not usually open to the public. The rest of the visit will be designed based on your interests and desires. We may visit the White Tower, the oldest part of the complex, or the Tower Green, site of the execution of the likes of Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey. Execution at the Tower was a privilege reserved for those of high rank or for those who had dangerously strong popular support.

Take Aways

At the end of this tour, we will come away having gained a unique and unparalleled experience at the Tower of London, including visiting sections not otherwise open to the public and having seen the Crown Jewels in absolute peace.

FAQ

What is a private tour?

Our private tours are limited exclusively to travelers in your party. They are designed to provide a learning experience that is completely tailored to you and your traveling companions. Private tours give you more flexibility with scheduling (you decide when the walk best fits in your trip), the ability to tailor your itinerary (we'll work to match the itinerary to the interests and dynamics of your group), and more personalized time with your guide.

Book a Tour

Meet our experts

“ I love leading Context tours simply because I know that I will be spending the day with inquisitive, thoughtful and interested clients. I know they will value my expertise, enjoy our conversation and cherish their experience. ”

Harry C.

From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.

Tower of London - Early Entry

Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.

Included

English-speaking expert guide
Tours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
Intentionally sized groups
A smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
Tickets and entrance fees
All entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
Headsets
Headsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.

Excluded

Gratuities

We encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
Food and drink

Refreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
Transportation to and from the meeting point

Guests organize pre- and post-tour transport themselves - this service can be added by request.
Hotel pickup or drop-off

Unless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.

Map of Exclusive Early Morning Tower of London Tour general meeting point area

Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.

Dos:

Wear comfortable footwear
Check the weather and dress appropriately
Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
Feel free to ask your Expert anything

Don'ts:

Bring firearms or weapons
Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments

Any questions? You can always contact us.

10 Reviews

Paul did a great job! We learned a ton about the Tower of London.

Edward Jan 15, 2025

Sarah Jane was fantastic! We all enjoyed her knowledge and enthusiasm. Very satisfied!

Clinton Jul 20, 2019

While other tour companies claim to "get you in before the crowds," Context is the only one that has actually delivered on this promise. My family and I were able to take tour of the Tower of London well in advance of the crowds, have an in-depth discussion/lecture about the Crown Jewels, not to mention a close look with no rushing or distractions. It was a wonderful tour and Fiona was superb!

Margueritte Jul 9, 2019

Join passionate experts on intimate walking tours that reveal a city’s unique stories, spark conversations, and leave you seeing the world—and yourself—a little differently.

Structured, never scripted

Your interests guide your Expert, leading to stories and perspectives that matter to you.

Crafted for conversation

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Experts, not guides

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