Excursion Tower of london ceremony of the keys tour at London

Enjoy your guided walk to the Tower of London where you will experience a very special after hours' visit of the Tower grounds and be part of a unique and century's old tradition.

The Tower of London

The Tower of London has been the setting for many great events during its 1000-year history as a royal palace and fortress, prison and place of execution, menagerie and jewel house. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066-7 and enlarged and modified by successive sovereigns, today the Tower of London is one of the world's most famous and spectacular fortresses.

Exclusive Yeoman Warder Tour of the Tower Grounds

Nobody knows more about the history of the Tower than the Yeoman Warders. Having guarded this palace and fortress for centuries you will be captivated by their amazing stories passed on from generation to generation. Upon arrival you will be met by your Yeoman Warder (also known as Beefeater) for your special guided tour of the Tower grounds which is closed to the general public this evening.

The Tower of London is often identified with the White Tower, the original stark square fortress built by William the Conqueror in 1078. However, the Tower as a whole is a complex of several buildings set within two parallel rings of defensive walls and a moat and it is the area within the walls that you will visit with your warder this evening.

The Ceremony of the Keys

Following your tour, it is time for a unique and century's old tradition - the Ceremony of the Keys, the time-honoured locking up of the Tower of London each night. Set amidst the mighty battlements of this ancient historic fortress, it is one of the oldest and most colourful surviving ceremonies of its kind, having been enacted every night without fail for almost seven hundred years, in much the same form as we know it today.

Every night, at exactly 7 minutes to 10 o'clock, the Chief Yeoman Warder of the Tower emerges from the Byward Tower wearing his long red coat and Tudor bonnet. He carries in one hand a candle lantern and in the other hand the Queen's Keys. With solemn tread he moves along Water Lane to Traitor's Gate. Once all the Tower gates are locked, the last post is sounded by a trumpeter and the ceremony is concluded.

Following the ceremony depart the Tower and walk back to your Ship.

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking and standing for approximately 1.5hours, at times over uneven, gravel and slippery surfaces. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a sweater or light jacket from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. Final guests list must be submitted no later than 2 weeks before the call. The tour includes only the Tower grounds with no internal visit.