VIP Tower of London: After Hours Tour with Beefeater & Ceremony of the Keys
About this activity
Highlights
- Get an exclusive invite to experience the Tower of London after it closes to the general public.
- See the historic Ceremony of Keys, performed nightly for over 700 years, in front of your eyes.
- Learn of the original purpose of the Tower of London and how it accidentally became a prison.
- Hear stories of how the castle was once a zoo.
- Listen to tales about the Tower's gruesome past and what famous (and royal!) ghosts walk the halls.
Full description
Experience the Tower of London like never before on this unique, after-hours tour. When night falls and the doors close to the public, embark on an exploration of the castle's dark history with a private Yeoman Warder guide. Stroll through the centuries-old grounds as your knowledgeable guide reveals the Tower’s secrets and stories, including how it earned its reputation as one of history's most formidable prisons.
As the sun sets, you'll be ushered through the Traitor's Gate to explore the Tower of London. With a Yeoman Warder guide at your side, this dark chapter of British history will come to life with tales of prisoners arriving here before their fateful march to the Execution Block. Feel the eerie atmosphere as you discover the macabre past and striking stories of this iconic landmark.
Continuing your evening tour, you’ll be transported back in time with captivating tales of the Tower of London's past. Learn how exotic animals roamed within the walls, why the Crown Jewels were kept here, and why Anne Boleyn met her fate at the tower.
Your guide is a living part of history, too. The Yeoman Warders have been guarding the Tower for close to a thousand years and must live within its walls. Let them show you stories of the Tower that you would never know otherwise.
Last but certainly not least, this tour gives you the rare chance to witness the Ceremony of Keys. It’s one of the oldest military ceremonies in the world and one of the most iconic rituals in London. Have your cameras ready to capture the Yeomen Warders in their full Tudor dress, reciting their famous lines and passing the keys to the Chief Warder to officially close the Tower for the day.
Be among the select few who get to experience the historic surrounds of the Tower of London on a private evening tour. Get insights into centuries of British history, with stories and facts that you won't find in any travel guidebook. This is your chance to truly immerse yourself in London's past.
Please note: While the tour of the grounds of the Tower of London is limited to just your small group (20 max), other visitors and groups are able to purchase Ceremony of the Keys tickets and will be admitted to the Tower to witness the ritual.
Included / Excluded
- Local English-speaking Yeoman Warder guide
- Expertly guided walking tour
- Small group of 20 guests maximum
- After hours access to the Tower of London
- Ceremony of the Keys
- Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
- Gratuities
Cancellation policy
Cancellations received greater than 72 hours prior to tour commencement are fully refundable. Cancellations received within 72 hours of tour commencement are nonrefundable. Amendment requests are subject to availability and price changes. Late arrivals and no-shows are non-refundable. This is applicable to any tour participant that fails to arrive or arrives after tour departure.
Reviews
Amazing Tour!!
A highly recommended experience.
The tour was great and having priority on the boat was excellent
