The Tower of London is a historic site that holds a captivating allure, especially after the daytime crowds have dispersed. The exclusive after-hours tour offers a rare opportunity to experience the tower’s enchanting Ceremony of the Keys, a 700-year-old tradition of locking the gates at night. Led by a knowledgeable Yeoman Warder, this unique journey promises an immersive exploration of the tower’s storied past, revealing its darker secrets and untold tales. For those seeking a deeper connection to this iconic landmark, the after-hours tour is a must-consider experience.

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Key Points

Exclusive after-hours tour led by a Yeoman Warder, providing a unique opportunity to explore the Tower’s grounds without daytime crowds.
Tour includes witnessing the Ceremony of the Keys, a 700-year-old tradition symbolizing the authority of the monarch.
Visitors can explore the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula, the final resting place of notable historical figures like Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard.
The evening setting enhances the immersion in the Tower’s dark history, with the Yeoman Warder sharing tales of betrayal and power.
Participants must meet in front of the Tower of London Shop and arrive 10 minutes before the tour starts, with a valid passport or ID required for participation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tower of London: A Nighttime Exploration

As the sun sets over the River Thames, the Tower of London takes on an entirely new atmosphere. The iconic castle, once bustling with activity, becomes shrouded in darkness and mystery.

On this exclusive after-hours tour, visitors have the rare opportunity to explore the Tower’s grounds without the daytime crowds. Led by a Yeoman Warder, they’ll uncover the site’s dark history, from tales of betrayal and execution to the long-standing Ceremony of the Keys.

The evening setting heightens the experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the Tower’s captivating past.

Looking for more options in London? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Unraveling the Tower’s Dark History

The Tower of London has long been a site of intrigue and dark deeds.

The Tower of London has long been a site of intrigue and dark deeds.

As the exclusive after-hours tour group gathers, a Yeoman Warder guides them through the grounds, sharing tales of betrayal, power, and executions.

Visitors witness the Ceremony of the Keys, a 700-year-old tradition locking up the Tower.

They explore the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula, the final resting place of notable figures like Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard.

Through the Yeoman’s captivating storytelling, the evening atmosphere enhances the historical experience, transporting guests back in time to uncover the Tower’s sinister past.

The Captivating Ceremony of the Keys

Although the Tower of London has witnessed countless acts of betrayal and execution throughout its storied history, one of its most enduring traditions is the nightly Ceremony of the Keys. This ancient ritual has been performed without interruption for over 700 years, with a Yeoman Warder locking the Tower’s main gates at precisely 9:53 pm each evening. The ceremony is a symbolic statement of the monarch’s authority, and guests on the after-hours tour have the rare opportunity to witness this captivating tradition. The experience transports visitors back in time, evoking the Tower’s rich past and the ever-vigilant guardianship that has protected it for centuries.

| Ceremony of the Keys | | |

|———————|—————-|—————-|

| Time | 9:53 pm | Precise timing |

| Purpose | Symbolic | Monarch’s authority |

| Duration | Over 700 years | Enduring tradition |

| Attendees | Yeoman Warder | Tower’s guardians |

Chapel Royal of St. Peter Ad Vincula: Final Resting Place

Within the Tower of London’s storied walls lies the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula, the final resting place of notable figures.

Guests on the after-hours tour will learn about this sacred site and the individuals interred there. The chapel holds the remains of two English queens – Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard – who were executed at the Tower.

Other burials include those of renowned Sir Thomas More and the "Princes in the Tower", the ill-fated sons of Edward IV.

The chapel’s somber atmosphere and poignant history add depth to the Tower’s dark and dramatic past.

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Iconic Sites and Untold Tales

As guests embark on the after-hours Tower of London tour, they’ll explore the grounds’ iconic sites and uncover the untold tales that echo through the centuries.

The tour guides, known as Yeoman Warders, regale visitors with stories of betrayal, power, and execution that have taken place at landmarks like the White Tower and Traitor’s Gate.

Guests will:

Walk through the very locations where notable figures, including Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, met their demise
Hear first-hand accounts from military veterans with deep connections to the historic site
Experience the eerie evening atmosphere that enhances the tour’s immersive historical experience
Witness the Ceremony of the Keys, a 700-year-old tradition that takes place every night at the Tower.

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The Yeoman Warder’s Perspective

The Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, are the official tour guides of the Tower of London.

They’re retired senior officers from the British Army, Navy, or Royal Air Force, with at least 22 years of military service. Their role is to share the Tower’s rich history with visitors.

During the after-hours tour, a Yeoman Warder leads the group, regaling them with tales of betrayal, power, and executions that have taken place within the Tower’s walls.

Their military background and connection to the site lend authenticity to the experience, bringing the past to life.

Enhancing the Historical Experience

The evening atmosphere at the Tower of London enhances the historical experience for visitors on the after-hours tour. Shrouded in the night’s darkness, the iconic sites take on an air of mystery.

Guests can:

Witness the Ceremony of the Keys, a ritual performed daily for over 700 years
Explore the grounds when crowds have dispersed, allowing for a more immersive experience
Hear chilling tales of betrayal, power, and executions from the Yeoman Warder guide
Appreciate the architecture and ambiance of the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula after sunset

The evening tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the Tower’s rich history in an atmospheric setting.

Tour Logistics and Accessibility

Participants meet in front of the Tower of London Shop, arriving 10 minutes before the tour’s scheduled start time.

They’ll need to bring a passport or ID and wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

Large bags, strollers, and those with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs won’t be able to join the tour.

The evening atmosphere enhances the historical experience, but the tour doesn’t include access to the Crown Jewels or entry into the buildings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book Tickets for the Same Day?

Yes, you can book tickets for the same day if they’re available. The tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can reserve your spot without committing upfront.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but flash photography is prohibited. Guests are advised to check with the tour guide upon arrival for any specific rules or restrictions regarding photography during the experience.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any student or senior discounts. The price is a flat rate of €127.95 per person, regardless of age or student status. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The minimum age requirement for the tour is not specified. However, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, strollers, or large bags, so it may not be appropriate for young children.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The overview clearly states the tour is "not suitable for… large bags", indicating pets would also not be permitted. Participants should bring only what they can comfortably carry.

The Sum Up

The Tower of London’s after-hours tour offers a captivating and immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the grounds without the daytime crowds. Guests can witness the historic Ceremony of the Keys, explore the tower’s dark history, and visit the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula. Led by knowledgeable Yeoman Warders, this exclusive tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover the iconic site’s untold tales and enhance one’s historical understanding.