Crown Jewels tickets

Choose the first weekday entry slot if seeing the Crown Jewels is your priority. The Jewel House is noticeably quieter during the opening hour, giving you a steadier pace through the display and better opportunities to appreciate each piece before visitor numbers build.

Allow 20–30 minutes for the Crown Jewels themselves, including the introductory displays and moving walkway. If you're visiting with a guide, set aside up to 45 minutes, as the historical context transforms the regalia from glittering objects into symbols of royal authority.

You'll usually reach the Jewel House midway through your Tower visit, before continuing to the White Tower, battlements, and other historic buildings. Keep enough energy and time in reserve—many visitors underestimate the queue and arrive feeling rushed through the Tower's most iconic collection.

Queues are longest between late morning and early afternoon, especially during weekends, school holidays, and summer months. Even after joining the line, expect a steady visitor flow inside the Jewel House. Earlier and later visits generally mean shorter waits and a more comfortable pace.

Focus on St Edward's Crown, the Imperial State Crown, and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, home to the Cullinan I diamond. These ceremonial pieces remain the centrepieces of the collection and represent centuries of British coronation traditions.

Many visitors assume they'll have unlimited time beside each display, but the moving walkway through the main chamber keeps everyone progressing. Take time to study the introductory galleries first, then use the second viewing opportunity to revisit details you may have missed.

Created in 1661 for the coronation of King Charles II, St Edward's Crown is the centrepiece of the collection. Crafted from solid gold and adorned with precious stones, it is traditionally used only during the moment of coronation, making it one of Britain's most important ceremonial objects.

Worn by the monarch during the State Opening of Parliament and after every coronation, this crown features nearly 3,000 gemstones, including the Cullinan II diamond, the Black Prince's Ruby, St Edward's Sapphire, and the Stuart Sapphire. Look closely to spot some of the monarchy's most famous historic jewels.

Originally created for Charles II's coronation, the sceptre was redesigned in 1910 to hold the spectacular Cullinan I, or Great Star of Africa—the largest clear-cut diamond in the world. Despite its dazzling appearance, it remains an active symbol of royal power during every British coronation.