Crown Jewels, London — About, History, Tours & Visitor Info

See the Crown Jewels inside the Jewel House at the Tower of London: what they are, how to visit, ticket types and tours, brief history and timeline, opening info, access and smart tips for a smooth 2025 visit.

About the Crown Jewels (Jewel House, Tower of London)

The Crown Jewels are the United Kingdom’s ceremonial regalia—crowns, sceptres, orbs and other objects used at coronations and state events. They are safeguarded in the Jewel House at the Tower of London and are one of Britain’s most visited collections. A moving walkway helps keep the line flowing past the crowns so everyone gets a clear view.

What You’ll See

Visitor highlights typically include the Imperial State Crown, the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross (set with the Cullinan I diamond), the Sovereign’s Orb, and the historic Coronation Spoon, alongside ceremonial swords and other regalia used in modern coronations.

Why It’s Special

Beyond precious stones and craftsmanship, the collection represents centuries of ceremony and continuity. Exhibits explain how each object is used, with films and labels that make the stories easy to follow.

Brief History & Timeline

1066–1300s — Early English coronation regalia is recorded; items evolve with successive monarchs.
1649–1660 — Many medieval pieces are destroyed during the Interregnum; regalia is remade for the Restoration.
1661 — New regalia is created for the coronation of Charles II, forming the core of today’s collection.
19th–20th c. — Crowns are refitted; notable gems such as the Cullinan diamond are incorporated into the regalia.
Today — The Crown Jewels are displayed in the Jewel House with modern security and interpretation.

Tours & Ticket Options

Timed Entry (Self-Guided)

Best value for most visitors. Explore the Tower at your pace, including the Jewel House, the White Tower, medieval walls and exhibitions.

Early Access (Quieter Jewel House)

Enter before general opening for a calmer viewing of the regalia. Ideal if you want space for the films and exhibits before daytime crowds build.

Guided / Hosted Tours

Join a guide for context and stories, streamlined entry and help with route-finding. Great for first-timers or anyone who prefers a structured visit.

Popular Combos

Combine the Tower with Tower Bridge (glass walkways) or a Thames cruise for an efficient half-day itinerary with top views.

Good to know: Tickets use time slots. The Jewel House has a moving walkway by the main crowns. Arrive 10–15 minutes early, and go to the Crown Jewels first at busy times. Policies and pricing vary by date—check the product page when booking.

What You’ll Experience Inside

Key Objects & Stories

See crowns, sceptres and orbs used at modern coronations, with clear labels and short films explaining how each piece features in the ceremony. Expect precious stones, fine metalwork and centuries of symbolism.

Imperial State Crown and other working regalia used at state openings and coronations.
Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, set with the Cullinan I diamond.
Sovereign’s Orb and ceremonial swords; the historic Coronation Spoon.

Practical Details

Photography is restricted inside parts of the Jewel House—follow signage and staff guidance. The walkway helps everyone keep moving; you can usually loop again for another view if it’s not too busy.

Outside the Jewel House, explore the White Tower, the medieval wall walk and exhibitions that explain the Tower’s roles as palace, fortress and prison.

Insider Tips

Best Time

First hour after opening or late afternoon on weekdays is calmest. If available, early-access tours are the quietest.

Route Strategy

Head straight to the Jewel House, then enjoy the wider Tower at your pace. Save photo stops on Tower Bridge for later light.

Travel Light

Large luggage isn’t permitted. Small daypacks make security faster and walking the cobbles easier.

Visitor Cheatsheet

Opening & Duration

Hours vary by season; check your timed slot at booking. Allow 2–3 hours for the Tower, including Jewel House.

Getting There

Tower Hill (District/Circle), Tower Gateway (DLR), Fenchurch Street (rail), Tower Pier (river boats).

Accessibility

Grounds have step-free routes; some historic towers have stairs. Ask staff for accessible paths and lifts where available.

Facilities

Cafés, restrooms and water points on site. Family-friendly with baby-change; buggies are fine outdoors.

Ready to See the Crown Jewels?

Pick timed entry for value, early access for calm, or a guided/hosted option for depth—and enjoy the rest of the Tower after.