Easy Access Tower of London Royal Secrets Scandals Tour

If you’re planning a visit to London and want to uncover the hidden stories behind one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Easy Access Tower of London Royal Secrets & Scandals Tour offers a compelling blend of history, intrigue, and royal drama. This three-hour guided experience promises not just a walk through bricks and mortar, but a peek behind the curtain into centuries of royal secrets, scandals, and legends.

What immediately appeals to us about this tour is its focus on accessibility and exclusivity. With guaranteed timed tickets, you won’t waste precious sightseeing time waiting in lines, and the inclusion of Crown Jewels entry makes it a real highlight. Plus, the guide’s storytelling style—highlighting scandals, secrets, and the personal lives of monarchs—adds a layer of excitement that traditional visits often lack.

But a word of caution: it involves quite a bit of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and stairs, so it’s best suited for those in good health and comfortable with physical activity. For history lovers, royal enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the Tower’s dark and fascinating past, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a detailed, engaging experience that combines history, drama, and the chance to see the Crown Jewels up close.

Key Points

• Fast-track access: You skip the lines with guaranteed timed tickets and get to see the Crown Jewels without delay.
• Rich content: The tour covers everything from the White Tower and Tower Armory to infamous prisoners and royal scandals.
• Focus on stories: The guide shares surprising tales about spies, plots, and dynastic tangles that impacted history.
• Royal artifacts: Up-close views of the Imperial State Crown, Koh-I-Noor Crown, and Sovereign’s Sceptre.
• Legendary ravens: Learn the history and significance of the Tower’s famous birds.
• Authentic experience: Watch the Beefeaters and explore the historic sites like the scaffold site and Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point & Entry Ease

Your adventure begins outside the Starbucks at 3 Tower Place West Building, just a short stroll from the Tower itself. Arrive 15 minutes early to check in smoothly—latecomers won’t be accommodated, so punctuality is key. The meeting spot is straightforward, and the tour ends back at the same point, making logistics easy for travelers.

The First Impressions

Once inside, your guide will introduce you to the structure of the Tower, built by William the Conqueror in the 1070s. Expect a quick overview of its evolution from royal fortress to a symbol of monarchy, imprisonment, and intrigue. The guide’s storytelling style makes history come alive as they share tales of royal dynasties, architectural developments, and the Tower’s pivotal role in royal life.

Exploring the Crown Jewels

The highlight for many is the Crown Jewels Exhibition. You’ll get up close to the Imperial State Crown, the Koh-I-Noor Crown, and the Sovereign’s Sceptre—all sparkling symbols of royal power. The jewels are displayed in a way that allows for great photos and appreciation of their craftsmanship. This part of the tour underscores the grandeur and tradition of monarchy, and the guide often shares stories about these symbols’ history and significance.

The White Tower & Armory

Next, you’ll step into the White Tower, a masterpiece of Norman architecture. It’s a striking and imposing structure that has served various purposes over centuries. Inside, the Armory houses some impressive displays, including Henry VIII’s tournament armor. You’ll learn about the weapons and armor that once defended the realm and get a sense of the martial side of royal life.

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The Darker Tales & Secrets

Here’s where the tour shines—your guide will reveal scandals and secrets of past rulers, prisoners, and plots. Expect stories about spy networks, dynastic disputes, and financial scandals that shook the monarchy. The tour explores the private and public lives of royalty, exposing the human side behind the regal veneer.

The Historic Prison & Torture Instruments

The Lower Wakefield Tower offers a chilling glimpse into the Tower’s darker history—an area where prisoners faced instruments of torture. The guide recounts stories of those who suffered here, adding a visceral layer to your understanding of the Tower’s role as a place of punishment.

The Ravens & Beefeaters

No visit to the Tower is complete without meeting its guardians. You’ll see the legendary ravens that have been at the Tower for over 300 years and learn why they are protected by royal decree. Plus, the Beefeaters—formal Yeoman Warders—stroll about in their traditional uniforms, often sharing amusing anecdotes about their duties and the Tower’s history.

The Scaffold & Historic Sites

You’ll visit Tower Green, the site of historic executions, and the Church of St Peter ad Vincula, where many notable prisoners are buried. Walking these grounds helps you imagine the Tower’s role as a place of justice and tragedy.

End of Tour & Reflection

The tour concludes near the Tower Bridge, offering a chance to take photos of this iconic structure. The entire experience is designed to be both educational and entertaining, with a good balance of storytelling, historic facts, and visual displays.

While £119.88 per person might seem steep at first glance, it includes a wealth of privileged access and exclusive sights. Entry to the Crown Jewels alone is a major highlight, and seeing the White Tower’s architecture and arsenal adds substantial depth. The guided narrative enhances the experience, ensuring you’re not just wandering around but gaining insights into the scandals, secrets, and stories that shape the Tower’s reputation.

The tour’s emphasis on stories of royal scandals and intrigue makes it stand out. It’s not just about looking at artifacts but understanding the personalities and events that made history. One reviewer noted, “John was fantastic! We learned a good deal of history…and he was able to cater the content to the whole family.” That personal touch makes the experience accessible and engaging for all ages.

Accessibility & Practicalities

The tour is designed for those comfortable with walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, hills, and stairs. It doesn’t include hotel pickup, transportation, or food, but the convenience of a guided, all-in-one experience makes it worthwhile. Remember, it operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

Suitability & Recommendations

This experience is best suited for history buffs, royal enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to see the Crown Jewels and learn about the Tower’s darker past. It’s ideal for those who appreciate storytelling and details, rather than just sightseeing. Children over 18 and in good health will find it more comfortable, given the walking requirements.

This Tower of London tour offers a comprehensive and engaging way to explore one of London’s most famous landmarks. It combines exclusivity, storytelling, and a focus on scandalous stories that many visitors find memorable. The inclusion of the Crown Jewels and access to historic sites makes it a highly worthwhile experience for those interested in the monarchy and its secrets.

While it isn’t a quick glance or a passive visit, it’s a well-curated, thoughtfully guided experience that maximizes your time and understanding. If you’re traveling with a family, history group, or simply a curious mind eager for stories of kings, queens, spies, and villains, this tour will serve you well.

In short, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a deep, story-driven visit to the Tower that goes beyond the usual self-guided walk. A good mix of facts, legends, and visual splendor, all wrapped up in a well-organized package.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
This tour requires some walking over uneven surfaces, stairs, and hills, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments or who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the Tower is not included. The meeting point is conveniently located outside a Starbucks near the Tower.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves a good amount of walking and is operated in all weather conditions.

Is the tour appropriate for children?
While the tour is suitable for those over 18, children aged 10 and above may enjoy the stories, especially if they’re interested in history or royal tales.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. It’s best to plan for a meal before or after the tour.

This guided adventure into the Tower of London offers a well-rounded, story-rich experience that captures the imagination and provides a meaningful look at centuries of royal secrets. If uncovering the hidden tales behind Britain’s monarchy interests you, this is a tour worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: