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

Travel Flexibly
Tower of London Historic "Closing Ceremony" After Hours Tour 5 / 5 See All 145 Reviews
· 1.45h · England, United Kingdom

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
Expert English speaking guide
After hours Tower of London access
Ceremony of the Keys
Traitor's Gate
Bloody Tower, White Tower, and more!
Max group size of 50
Meals
Guide gratuity
Hotel pick up
Tripadvisor Logo

See what people are saying

145 total reviews

Leave a review
5.0/5 (based on 145 reviews)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 stars
Quiet Reflection
09 September 2025
B
Reviewed by
Bethany Morgan

The quiet moments while walking surprisingly made the history feel more personal. The ritual ceremony was an unforgettable reflective experience

Deeply Historic
08 September 2025
L
Reviewed by
Lottie Carter

Feeling the weight of history as the gates locked was powerful. Our guide did an excellent job setting the scene all evening.

Fun Facts
08 September 2025
F
Reviewed by
Finn Phillips

The guide balanced history with fun facts and humor. The ceremony was surprising in its seriousness and tradition.

show more reviews

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.

Start From: $157.38

available days discounted days

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!

Reserve Now $157.38 / per person
$157.38 / per person
You may also like
Free Cancellation
Up to 10% off

Free Cancellation Skip the Line

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

Explore Buckingham Palace, see the Crown Jewels, take a river cruise on the Thames, and more!

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation Guided Tour

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London

Dive into British history at London's famous fortress and enjoy a flexible ticket to a Thames Cruise

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation Skip the Line

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

Explore royal history at London's famous church before seeing Buckingham Palace's iconic ceremony

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation Exclusive Access

Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters

Witness a centuries-old tradition before seeing the crown jewels with fewer crowds

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Small Group Day Tour of Bath, Windsor Castle, and Stonehenge from London

Visit Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London in just one day

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters

Hear legends from the Guardians of the Tower of London before your full tour of the fortress

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Skip the Line Churchill's War Rooms and Westminster Small Group Tour

Explore the preserved Secret Bunkers in London, where D-Day and the fall of Hitler were planned

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Kensington Gardens tour with Royal High Tea

Enjoy an intimate tour of Kensington Palace Gardens that ends with traditional English High Tea

Day Trip

Day Trip New Tour

From London: The Enchanting Cotswolds Village Tour with Lunch

Explore Idyllic Burford and Stow-on-the-Wold and enjoy a two-course lunch in Bibury

From London: Cotswolds Day trip to Bibury, Burford, and Burton-on-the-Water

From London: Cotswolds Day trip to Bibury, Burford, and Burton-on-the-Water

Explore the timeless charm of the English countryside in a small group

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour

Get rare summer access to the royal State Rooms, only open a few weeks each year!

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

British Museum Guided Tour in London

Admire this world-famous historic collection with the help of an expert guide

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Changing of the Guard Small Group Walking Tour in London

Witness the world-famous ceremony while learning about the orgins of this iconic routine

Exclusive Access

Exclusive Access Transportation Included

Exclusive Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Guided Tour

Touch the historic stones at sunrise or sunset and explore the charm of Windsor town

Day Trip

Day Trip Exclusive Access

Exclusive Inner Circle Stonehenge Access, Lacock Village, and Bath

Enjoy transportation to and from London and a chance to eat at a 13th century Inn in Lacock

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation

London: Ultimate Speedboat Adventure

Experience Big Ben, Tower Bridge & More in Thrilling Fashion with a Small Group

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation Private Tour

Private Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard Tour

Dive deep into London's history at the famous church before seeing Buckingham Palace

New Tour

New Tour Private Tour

Private Tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London

Delve into the church's architectural brilliance and sacred stories with your personal guide

New Tour

New Tour Private Tour

Private London Highlights Black Cab Sightseeing Tour

Zip through London’s captivating streets as you admire Westminster, Big Ben, Hide Park and more

Guided Tour

Guided Tour Private Tour

Private Tour of the National Gallery in London

Admire masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Monet's Water Lilies with a dedicated guide

Day Trip

Day Trip New Tour

Windsor, Stonehenge, & Bath Full-Day Tour with Lacock Pub Lunch from London

Enjoy coach travel, early entry to Windsor Castle, and a pub lunch on this action-packed day trip

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

London: East End Food Tour in a Small Group

Check Brick Lane, Shoreditch and Spitalfields off your bucket list with local food tastings

New Tour

New Tour Private Tour

Private Victoria and Albert Museum Highlights Tour

Marvel at Raphael’s Cartoons, historic fashion trends, and treasures of the Jewellery Gallery

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation Private Tour

Private Tower of London Tour

Follow your private guide through London's most infamous fortress

Private Tour

Private Tour Skip the Line

Private Tour of the Tate Modern in London

Immerse yourself in world-class modern art, from Picasso to Warhol, with a dedicated private guide

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Essential London Sights by E-Bike Small Group Tour

Cycle through classic landmarks, from Big Ben to Buckingham Palace

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Harry Potter Studio & Oxford from London: Magic Behind the Scenes

Roam the streets of Oxford, visit Hogwarts Castle, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express!

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Morning Food Tour Through Borough Market and London

Taste local delicacies, explore the neighborhood near the iconic Bridge, and end with a cold pint

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Royal Hampton Court Palace Tour with Afternoon Tea

Immerse yourself in regal history as you tour the palace grounds and experience afternoon tea

Day Trip

Day Trip New Tour

Full-Day Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

Journey back in time to experience the mysteries of ancient stones and historic Roman baths

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Royal London Bike Tour with Thames River Cruise

Ride by Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, and more in the heart of the city

Day Trip

Day Trip New Tour

Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & White Cliffs Full Day Tour From London

Experience England’s Royal History, Spiritual Heritage, and Iconic Landscapes in One Day

Guided Tour

Guided Tour New Tour

Premium Westminster Abbey Tour with Breakfast and London Eye

Avoid lines and witness the storied sites of royal ceremonies, then soar above the London skyline

Private Tour

Private Tour Transportation Included

Private Black Cab Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

See London’s landmarks in comfort with skip-the-line entry and a private black cab experience

Day Trip

Day Trip New Tour

From London: Full-Day Stonehenge and Avebury Small Group Tour

Experience mysterious stone circles and quaint villages with an expert guide

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

From London: Harry Potter Studios Tour in a Small Group with Pickup

Join us to experience the official movie sets and props that brought the beloved film saga to life!

Family Friendly

Family Friendly New Tour

Private Harry Potter Black Cab Tour Through London

See where the magic of Harry Potter came to life as you drive to Gringotts Wizarding Bank and stroll

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation Private Tour

Private London in a Day Tour

Discover London's deep history at Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, and the Changing of the Guard

Day Trip

Day Trip Transportation Included

From London: Cotswolds and Oxford Small Group Day-trip with Lunch

Visit two unforgettable English destinations that have captivated poets and artists

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

Soho Eats: A Delicious Evening Walking Tour

Uncover the history of rock-n-roll in London while sampling delicious local food

Private Tour

Private Tour Transportation Included

Private Windsor Castle Tour from London

Experience royal splendor and visit Eton College on this day trip from London

Family Friendly

Family Friendly Private Tour

British Museum Private Guided Tour

Admire the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian Mummies, and the Parthenon Sculptures with a passionate guide

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation New Tour

London by Bike Tour: River Thames and Borough Market

Cycle through iconic landmarks like The Globe Theatre and Tower Bridge