Tower of London After Hours VIP Guided Tour & Ceremony of the Keys

About this experience

Tower of London After Hours VIP Guided Tour & Ceremony of the Keys This exclusive after-hours Tower of London tour offers access to one of Britain's most historic fortresses when the daytime crowds have departed. Led by an expert Yeoman Warder (Beefeater), you'll explore the Crown Jewels in intimate conditions and witness the ancient Ceremony of the Keys, a military tradition performed nightly for over 700 years. The experience combines royal history, medieval architecture, and living ceremonial tradition in an atmospheric evening setting. Your Yeoman Warder guide shares stories of famous prisoners, royal executions, and the Tower's thousand-year history as palace, fortress, and prison. The Crown Jewels viewing becomes particularly special during these evening visits, allowing you to admire the Imperial State Crown and royal regalia without the usual crowds. The White Tower reveals its medieval grandeur more dramatically in evening lighting, while the Tower's famous ravens maintain their watchful presence across Tower Green. The highlight centres on witnessing the Ceremony of the Keys, where the Chief Yeoman Warder ceremonially locks the Tower's main gates while exchanging traditional challenges with armed sentries. This authentic military ritual has continued unchanged through centuries of British history. You'll receive a commemorative certificate marking your participation in this historic tradition. For those interested in exploring more of London's royal heritage, consider the Buckingham Palace State Rooms tour or discover more of the capital's historic sites with a Westminster Abbey guided tour. What is Included VIP guided tour by expert Yeoman Warder Exclusive after-hours access to Tower of London Crown Jewels viewing without daytime crowds Access to the White Tower and Royal Armouries collection Witness the Ceremony of the Keys ceremony Commemorative certificate of participation Small group experience (maximum 15-30 participants) Good to Know Duration: 2-3 hours from start to finish Meeting Point: Designated entrance specified in your booking confirmation. Arrive at least 15 minutes early. Security Requirements: All visitors must pass through airport-style security screening. Avoid bringing large bags or prohibited items. What to Bring: Weather-appropriate clothing and waterproof items if rain is forecast. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes essential for uneven medieval surfaces and cobblestones. Photography: Not permitted during the actual Ceremony of the Keys for security and traditional reasons. Photos may be allowed in other Tower areas. Age Suitability: Children welcome but most suitable for ages 8 and above due to extended standing and walking periods. Important: Punctuality is crucial as the tour cannot wait for late arrivals due to strict ceremony timing and security protocols. Mobile devices must be silenced during ceremonial portions.

Highlights

• Access the Tower of London after daytime crowds have left
• Led exclusively by a Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) guide
• View the Crown Jewels in intimate, uncrowded conditions
• Witness the Ceremony of the Keys, performed nightly for over 700 years
• Explore medieval architecture and royal history after dark

What is included

• After-hours access to the Tower of London
• Expert Yeoman Warder guided tour
• Access to the Crown Jewels
• Attendance at the Ceremony of the Keys

Not included

• Entry to Tower of London buildings
• Access to Crown Jewels

Before you go

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Cancellation terms

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience. Within 24 hours of the start, the booking cannot be cancelled.