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!
Expert, English-speaking guide
Exclusive after-hours access to the Tower of London
Witness the Ceremony of the Keys
Guided walking tour of the Tower grounds
Guide tips
Interior building access
Your tour begins at the Tower Shop
Your exclusive Ceremony of the Keys experience begins at the Tower Shop, directly across from the entrance to the Tower of London, at 8:30 PM. A representative will greet you and lead you to meet your Beefeater guide, one of the Tower's official protectors, who will escort you inside after the fortress has closed to the public.
Tour the Tower of London
You'll embark on an exclusive one-hour guided walk around the Tower's grounds, experiencing this iconic landmark in peaceful after-hours calm. Your Beefeater guide will share tales of royal intrigue, executions, and the Tower's pivotal role in British history as you explore the key areas where centuries of drama unfolded.
Traitor's Gate
Next, you'll pass Traitor's Gate, the historic water entrance once used to bring prisoners accused of treason into the fortress under cover of darkness. Your guide will explain how this ominous gateway became synonymous with the Tower's darkest chapters.
White Tower
You'll see the White Tower, the oldest and most iconic building within the fortress. This nearly 1,000-year-old structure has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison, standing as the heart of the Tower's storied past.
Chapel Royal of St Peter Ad Vincula
Then you'll learn about the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula, the final resting place of several notable figures including Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Thomas More. This poignant chapel symbolizes the Tower's role in some of England's most dramatic historical moments.
For Reference Only. Itineraries are subject to change
Select participants and date
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!
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A Must-Do in London
Leslie W.
Verified Review
September 17, 2025
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 M.
Verified Review
September 09, 2025
The quiet moments while walking surprisingly made the history feel more personal. The ritual ceremony was an unforgettable reflective experience
Deeply Historic
Lottie C.
Verified Review
September 08, 2025
Feeling the weight of history as the gates locked was powerful. Our guide did an excellent job setting the scene all evening.
Fun Facts
Finn P.
Verified Review
September 08, 2025
The guide balanced history with fun facts and humor. The ceremony was surprising in its seriousness and tradition.
Rich Narratives
Riley M.
Verified Review
September 07, 2025
The guide shared rich and fascinating narratives about the Tower’s past. The silent nighttime setting made all the difference.
Fascinating Evening
Esme W.
Verified Review
September 06, 2025
History came alive during the evening tour. The guide was fantastic, and the ceremony was a breathtaking way to end the night.
Engaging Experience
Harrison M.
Verified Review
September 05, 2025
Every moment was engaging, from the walk to the ceremony. The guide mixed humor and history brilliantly. A very special evening.
Holly C.
Verified Review
September 04, 2025
Beautiful Tradition
Theo P.
Verified Review
September 02, 2025
The centuries-old Ceremony of the Keys is a moving tradition. The quiet Tower grounds at night made it all feel deeply historic and special.
Small Group
Pippa E.
Verified Review
September 02, 2025
The small group made the night feel personal and exclusive. Our Beefeater guide shared stories with warmth and insight. Loved every minute.
Intimate Moments
Maisie W.
Verified Review
September 01, 2025
With just a small group, we had genuine moments to ask questions and engage deeply. The historic lock-up ceremony was a powerful conclusion.
Joshua M.
Verified Review
September 01, 2025
Archer A.
Verified Review
September 01, 2025
Magical Tradition
Millie C.
Verified Review
August 31, 2025
The whole experience felt magical, especially the centuries-old tradition of locking up the Tower. Well worth the evening.
Lifetime Memory
Leo G.
Verified Review
August 31, 2025
The beautiful Tower lit up at night, the expert guide, and the moving closing ceremony made an unforgettable night.
Cultural Gem
Amelia B.
Verified Review
August 30, 2025
This tour is a cultural gem that brings history to life. The tradition of locking the Tower is astonishing.
Fascinating Ritual
Alfie B.
Verified Review
August 30, 2025
Seeing history still in practice firsthand was fascinating. The Beefeater's warmth and knowledge made the evening extra special.
Piper H.
Verified Review
August 30, 2025
Elisa C.
Verified Review
August 29, 2025
Kathleen G.
Verified Review
August 29, 2025
Truly Atmospheric
Oscar W.
Verified Review
August 28, 2025
Walking the Tower grounds by night felt atmospheric and mysterious. The ceremony gave a sense of continuity that was deeply meaningful.
Perfect Size
Imogen H.
Verified Review
August 27, 2025
The group was small enough for questions but large enough for atmosphere. The night lighting added so much to the experience
Noah S.
Verified Review
August 25, 2025
Must-See
Charlie M.
Verified Review
August 24, 2025
If visiting London, this should be on your list. Skipping the crowds and taking part in this old tradition was unforgettable.
Relaxed Pace
Daisy T.
Verified Review
August 20, 2025
No rush, no crowds. Just a peaceful, informative stroll through centuries of history, ending with an amazing tradition that lasts hundreds of years.
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