Buckingham Palace or Bling-ing Palace? Your Guide to Seeing the Crown Jewels in London
So you're in London, land of crumpets, rainy days, and enough history to bury yourself in (metaphorically, of course). And let's face it, what's a trip to London without a good dose of royal gawking? But forget the chance of catching a glimpse of the Queen nicking biscuits from the palace kitchen (security's tight these days), most tourists have their sights set on something far more dazzling: the Crown Jewels.
Where are the Crown Jewels Hiding? (They're not under Big Ben, we checked)
Fear not, fellow treasure hunter! The Crown Jewels aren't stashed away in some dusty vault. They're proudly displayed within the historic walls of the Tower of London, a mighty fortress that's seen its fair share of drama over the centuries (think executions, imprisonments, the whole shebang).
Top Tip: The Tower can get mighty crowded, especially during peak season. To avoid feeling like a sardine on the viewing platform, aim to get there early or purchase tickets online beforehand.
Shiny Squad Goals: What Exactly Are the Crown Jewels?
The Crown Jewels are more than just a bunch of sparkly rocks (although there are definitely plenty of those!). This dazzling collection is actually a treasure trove of royal regalia, used for coronations and state occasions. We're talking crowns (obviously), swords, scepters, orbs, and enough diamonds to make your eyeballs water.
Must-See Sparklies: Keep an eye out for the Imperial State Crown, the crown used by the monarch at the State Opening of Parliament, and St Edward's Crown, used specifically for the coronation ceremony.
Can I Actually Touch the Crown Jewels? (Spoiler Alert: No)
Now, while we all harbour a secret desire to channel our inner Regina George and rock a royal crown, the Crown Jewels are under tight security for a reason. Gazing in awe is about as close as you'll get. But hey, at least you can say you've seen some of the most magnificent jewels in the world!
Fun Fact: The Crown Jewels are actually a working collection, meaning the Queen might just pop on a sparkly tiara for an important event.
Crown Jewels FAQ: Your Pressing Questions Answered (and Probably Some You Didn't Even Ask)
How much does it cost to see the Crown Jewels?
Check the Historic Royal Palaces website [Tower of London] for current ticket prices.
How long does it take to see the Crown Jewels?
The viewing itself takes around 20 minutes, but you could easily spend a few hours exploring the Tower of London itself.
Are there any special exhibitions on with the Crown Jewels?
The Tower of London frequently hosts special exhibitions alongside the Crown Jewels. Check their website for the latest info.
Can I take photos of the Crown Jewels?
Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside the Jewel House. But trust us, the sparkle is something you won't forget!
Is it worth seeing the Crown Jewels?
Absolutely! The Crown Jewels are a dazzling piece of British history, and a must-see for any visitor to London.
