Tower of London Historic "Closing Ceremony" After Hours Tour
Join this exclusive tour after the crowds have left and witness the Tower's rare closing ceremony
Enter the Tower of London after being closed to the general public to witness the centuries-old Ceremony of the Keys. Having the Tower to yourself, the Beefeaters, or guardians of the Tower of London, lock the fortress gates in a nightly tradition dating back to the 14th century. This unique, one-hour guided tour offers you a rare glimpse into London's secrets, and it's not something to be missed!
- Meeting point at Tower of London Shop
- Tour the Tower of London
- Traitor's Gate
- White Tower
- Chapel Royal of St Peter Ad Vincula
- Ceremony of the Keys
- End outside the Tower of London
Meet your TTG Representative near the Tower of London entrance, as it’s time to experience the Tower of London as few ever will—after the crowds have gone, with exclusive access to its hidden corners and legendary rituals. Guided by one of the protectors of the Tower of London, also known as a Beefeater, you’ll walk in the footsteps of history, witnessing the Ceremony of the Keys, the 700-year-old tradition of closing the Tower gates that has remained unchanged for centuries. Your tour will finish back at the entrance to the Tower of London.
Tower of London Exclusive "Closing Ceremony" After Hours Tour Description
What’s Included:
Exclusive after-hours access to the Tower of London
Expert Beefeater guide
Witness the official closing of the Tower of London
Walking tour of the Tower's grounds
Max group size of 50
Meet Your Guide & Enter the Tower
The tour begins at 8:30 PM with a warm welcome from your TTG representative, who will lead you to the Tower's gates. From here, you’ll meet your Beefeater guide who will escort you into the Tower of London after it’s already been closed to the general public! The evening starts with a brief introduction, setting the stage for a night filled with fascinating history and the peaceful atmosphere of the Tower after dark.
Walk the Tower Grounds
As the lights fade over London, you’ll embark on an exclusive one-hour guided walk around the Tower of London’s grounds. Since you enter after the Tower has closed for the day, this tour won't include entry to the interior buildings. But don’t worry, you’ll still get up close to the key areas where history was made! Your guide will tell tales of royal intrigue, executions, and the Tower's role in British history, all while you soak in the calm of this iconic landmark at night.
Witness the Ceremony of the Keys
The highlight of this rare experience is the Ceremony of the Keys, a centuries-old ritual where the fortress gates are locked for the night. Watch as the Chief Yeoman Warder, accompanied by a military escort, performs this symbolic act. This tradition, which dates back to the 14th century, is one of the few surviving ceremonies of its kind. You’ll witness the solemn exchange between the Warder and the sentry, culminating in the "Last Post," a moving and reverent moment marking the end of the day.
The tour officially ends at approximately 10PM in front of the Tower of London. From here you can enjoy the rest of your evening by strolling along the Thames or finding a local pub for a nightcap.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
146 total reviews
Leave a reviewA Must-Do in London
Leslie Williamson
The Tower of London has been one of our favorite places to visit in London, but this time we booked the after-hours tour! It was fascinating to travel around the Tower for an hour with “Billy”, learning the history by lamplight. When it was time for the Ceremony, Billy left us to join in. It turns out he is the Chief Yoeman Warder, and the one who carries on the nearly 800 year old tradition of approaching the guards with a lantern and a ring of huge brass keys (that holds every key that has been used through time to lock the gates). There was an interchange of words (we could even join in on one return) and then the gates were locked! It was amazing to be a part of history! Go on this tour, you’ll be glad you did.
Quiet Reflection
Bethany Morgan
The quiet moments while walking surprisingly made the history feel more personal. The ritual ceremony was an unforgettable reflective experience
Deeply Historic
Lottie Carter
Feeling the weight of history as the gates locked was powerful. Our guide did an excellent job setting the scene all evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Be sure to bring your voucher to ensure a quick check in before this exclusive experience!
What to bring?
Be sure to bring your voucher to ensure a quick check in before this exclusive experience!
How much walking is involved?
This is a walking tour with a moderate pace. You'll be walking on paved paths and grassy areas, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Can I take photos during the tour?
You are permitted to take photos during the guided tour portion, however photos are strictly prohibited during the Ceremony of the Keys.
Is the Ceremony of the Keys available every night?
Yes, the Ceremony of the Keys is held every evening, but this private access tour is a rare opportunity to experience it without the usual crowds.
What should I wear?
We recommend comfortable shoes, as there will be some walking. Dress for the weather—though the tour is in the evening, temperatures can vary, so layering is advised.
What happens if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. In case of extreme weather, we will notify you of any changes as soon as possible.
Does this tour begin after the monument is closed to the general public?
Yes! This after-hours guided tour of the Tower of London not only grants you access to the centuries old tradition of closing the Tower games, but it also allows you to enter the Tower grounds after the general public has already left for the day.
Is this this experience family friendly?
Yes, the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London is family-friendly, though it is recommended for families with older children due to the late timing and lack of facilities during the event.
Are there bathroom and refreshment facilities available?
No, there are no facilities available at the Ceremony of the Keys event, including restrooms or refreshments, as it is held entirely outside after hours.
Will we be the only group walking the grounds of the Tower of London during the 1-hour walking tour?
Yes, you will have exclusive access to the grounds during the 1-hour walking tour. Following this private tour, you will join a larger group of visitors who are there specifically to witness the Ceremony of the Keys.
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