Crown Jewels, London — Best Activities & Things to Do (2025)
Plan the perfect visit to the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London: choose the right ticket, beat the queues, and pair your Jewel House visit with top Tower highlights, riverside views, and nearby food spots.
Top Experiences at the Crown Jewels & Tower
Jewel House Highlights
See crowns, sceptres, orbs and regalia used at coronations and state ceremonies—displayed with clear labels and films.
Moving Walkway View
A gentle conveyor helps the line flow past the crowns. Step back around for a second look if time allows.
Beefeater Insights
Join a Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) talk for stories of royal tradition, intrigue and the Tower’s daily life.
White Tower & Armoury
Explore the Norman keep with historic arms and armour—great context before or after the Jewel House.
Wall Walk & Views
Walk the battlements for skyline views of Tower Bridge and the City—photo spots in every direction.
Chapel & Courtyards
Pause by the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula and the Tower Green area for quiet, reflective moments.
Great Things to Do Before or After
Tower Bridge
Cross the Thames and try the Glass Floor walkways—easy add-on after your Jewel House visit.
Thames Path
Stroll riverside for classic London views. Boats from Tower Pier connect Westminster, Bankside & Greenwich.
City & South Bank
Walk to the Sky Garden, or head over Tower Bridge for Borough Market and the South Bank.
Photo Spots
Best light is early or late. Shoot back to the White Tower from the outer walls and towards Tower Bridge.
Family Breaks
Use cafés inside the Tower or at St Katharine Docks (2–6 min walk) for easy kid-friendly stops.
Short River Cruise
Hop a quick boat to Westminster/London Eye for a scenic reset after the Tower.
Which Crown Jewels Ticket Should You Choose?
Timed Entry (Best Value)
Flexible self-guided visit including the Jewel House. Plan 2–3 hours for the Tower as a whole.
Early Access (Quietest)
Enter before general opening for a calmer Jewel House experience—ideal for focused viewing.
Guided Tour
Go with a host for history, orientation and fewer logistics—great for first-time visitors.
Value Combos
Pair with Tower Bridge or a Thames cruise to cover more in one streamlined plan.
Good to know: Mobile tickets are scanned at the gate. Arrive 10–15 minutes early. Jewel House uses a moving walkway; photography is not permitted inside the Jewel House—take photos elsewhere on the grounds.
Food & Drink Near the Tower
St Katharine Docks
Marina cafés and casual restaurants 2–6 minutes’ walk—easy for families and groups.
Riverside Spots
Grab coffee along the Thames with views to Tower Bridge and the skyline.
Markets & Bites
Borough Market is a scenic 15–20 minute walk across Tower Bridge for street-food variety.
On-Site Breaks
Cafés and rest areas are inside the Tower complex—handy between exhibits.
Quick Visitor Tips
Best Time
First hour after opening is quietest; late afternoon on weekdays is another calm window.
How Long
Most visitors spend 15–25 minutes in the Jewel House and 2–3 hours across the wider Tower.
Photography
No photos in the Jewel House; elsewhere is fine—follow signage and staff guidance.
Accessibility
Grounds are largely step-free; some towers have historic stairs. Ask staff for accessible routes/lifts.
Bags & Security
Security checks at entry; large luggage is not permitted. Travel light with a small daypack.
Weather & Shoes
Parts are outdoors and cobbled—pack a layer or umbrella and wear comfy, grippy footwear.
Ready to See the Crown Jewels?
Pick a timed entry, early-access, guided, or combo option and enjoy a smooth, memorable visit.
