What has 2, 868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, 269 pears and four rubies? The Imperial State Crown, of course. It was worn by Queen Elizabeth II on her coronation day and alongside the Sovereign’s Sceptre and rod, the Protector of Good and the St Edwards Crown, it’s part of one of the most famous collections in the world: the Crown Jewels. They may have had quite a time of it during their stay at the
Tower of London since the 1600s (they’ve nearly been destroyed in a fire and been stolen) but, thankfully, they survived.
Why are we telling you all this? Because event bookers can organise a very special private viewing for their group.
Guests will be greeted at 6.30pm by one of the Yeoman Warders (you’ll probably know them as Beefeaters) before going on a walk-and-talk tour that will take them to the Jewel House. Inside – you guessed it – is where the world-famous Crown Jewels are housed. Groups will be able to view them in complete privacy (in the company of the venue’s knowledgeable warders) before heading to the 900-year-old White Tower for a drinks reception and dinner steeped in history.
Sound special? We think so too: prices start at £1,600 for 15 guests, with extra guests able to be added (maximum 80 total) from £110pp. Morning events are also popular (from £1,200) with private viewings followed by breakfast or a meeting in the AV-ready New Armouries.