London: Tower of London After Hours Tour and Key Ceremony

Step into the shadows of London’s iconic Tower and uncover its captivating history on an exclusive after-hours tour. As the sun sets, visitors are granted rare access to witness the centuries-old Ceremony of the Keys, a ritual that marks the nightly closure of this formidable fortress. Guided by Yeoman Warders, guests explore the Tower’s dark secrets, from its infamous ghosts to its unique association with animals. This unforgettable experience offers a glimpse into the Tower’s past that few have the privilege to witness. What hidden wonders await those who dare to explore the Tower after dark?

Key Points

• Exclusive after-hours access to the Tower of London, guided by expert Yeoman Warders, offering a unique glimpse into the historic Ceremony of the Keys.
• Captivating narratives from Yeoman Warder guides, who bring the Tower’s dark history and haunting tales of infamous prisoners and grisly executions to life.
• Unparalleled access to the Tower’s secrets and shadows, including chilling accounts of the site’s notorious ghosts and the Tower’s close relationship with animals.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users due to the historic nature of the site, and participants must provide their full names for security purposes.
• Potential temporary closures of certain areas and a requirement to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tower of London

The Tower of London, a centuries-old fortress on the banks of the River Thames, boasts a rich and captivating history that has long enthralled visitors from around the world.

This iconic landmark has served as a royal residence, a prison, and a site of execution, making it a treasure trove of fascinating stories and secrets.

Guests on the exclusive after-hours tour will have the rare opportunity to explore the tower’s intriguing past, guided by the expert narration of the Yeoman Warders.

From the ancient Ceremony of Keys to the tales of the tower’s famous ghosts, this immersive experience promises to transport visitors back in time and uncover the hidden gems of this legendary fortress.

Exclusive After-Hours Access

As the sun sets over the Tower of London, guests are granted exclusive after-hours access to this historic fortress, allowing them to discover its secrets away from the crowds. Yeoman Warder guides lead small groups through the shadowy corridors, regaling them with captivating tales of the tower’s storied past.

The after-hours experience offers:

1. A glimpse into the Ceremony of the Keys, a centuries-old ritual that marks the tower’s nightly closure.

2. Chilling accounts of the tower’s infamous ghosts, from the doomed princes in the tower to the haunting presence of Anne Boleyn.

3. Insights into the tower’s close relationship with animals, from the legendary ravens to the exotic menagerie that once lived within its walls.

4. An opportunity to explore the castle’s hidden nooks and crannies, away from the rush of daytime visitors.

Ceremony of the Keys

Centuries-old Ceremony of the Keys marks the nightly closure of the Tower of London, a tradition witnessed by guests during the exclusive after-hours tour. This solemn ritual has been performed by the Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters, for over 700 years. As the clock strikes 10 pm, the Chief Yeoman Warder, dressed in ceremonial uniform, enters the Tower, checks the locks, and hands the keys to the Chief Yeoman Ward, who then secures the main gates. Guests observe this timeless ceremony from a privileged vantage point, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Tower’s rich history and the dedicated guardians who protect it.

Ceremony	Time	Significance
Ceremony of the Keys	10 pm	Nightly lock-up ritual
Chief Yeoman Warder	Ceremonial uniform	Checks locks and hands keys
Yeoman Warders	Beefeaters	Longstanding Tower guards

Captivating Yeoman Warder Guides

Yeoman Warder guides, known as Beefeaters, bring the Tower of London’s captivating history to life through their engaging storytelling during the exclusive after-hours tour. These expert guides command attention as they recount tales of the tower’s infamous prisoners, grisly executions, and supernatural sightings.

Their deep knowledge and theatrical flair transport guests back in time, allowing them to:

1. Uncover the tower’s secrets and scandals
2. Learn about the castle’s close ties to the Crown
3. Hear chilling accounts of ghostly encounters
4. Gain a new appreciation for this iconic fortress

The Yeoman Warders’ captivating narratives make the Tower of London’s dark past come alive in vivid detail, leaving guests with an unforgettable experience.

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Uncovering the Tower’s Secrets

The Tower of London’s captivating history unfolds during the exclusive after-hours tour, as guests uncover the castle’s intriguing secrets and unravel its dark past. From tales of infamous prisoners to the mysterious sightings of ghostly apparitions, the Yeoman Warder guide captivates the small group with thrilling narratives that bring the Tower’s storied legacy to life.

Captivating Stories	Chilling Ghostly Encounters	Fascinating Royal Ties
Executions of royal	Sightings of the White Lady	Close connections to the
figures like Anne	– the ghost of a woman	Crown and its legacy
Boleyn and Catherine	beheaded in the Tower	Imprisonment of kings
Howard	Haunting sounds of	and queens
	clanking chains

Through this exclusive experience, guests gain unparalleled access to the Tower’s secrets, uncovering the shadows that have long cloaked this iconic landmark.

Haunting Tales of the Ghosts

Countless ghostly tales linger within the Tower’s ancient walls, captivating visitors with their chilling accounts of restless spirits haunting the historic landmark. Whispers of the infamous ‘White Lady’ – the ghost of a 15th-century queen – are said to haunt the Tower’s corridors. Sightings of the ‘Princes in the Tower’ – two young boys allegedly murdered in the 1400s – have spooked guards and visitors alike.

Other eerie apparitions include:

• The ghost of a medieval constable who was murdered in his bed.
• The spirit of a hanged prisoner who roams the grounds.
• The shade of a former warder who died while on duty.
• The spectre of a bear, a remnant of the Tower’s exotic animal collection.

Animal Inhabitants of the Tower

Over the centuries, the Tower of London has housed an eclectic menagerie of exotic animals, reflecting the venue’s close association with the British monarchy. Historically, the Tower’s animal residents included lions, polar bears, elephants, and even a collection of kangaroos. These creatures were often gifts from foreign dignitaries or used for royal entertainment.

Today, the Tower’s most famous animal inhabitants are the iconic ravens, which are believed to protect the Crown and the Tower itself. Visitors can spot these magnificent birds wandering the grounds, and learn about their important role in the Tower’s storied history. This animal legacy adds to the Tower’s unique and captivating charm.

Important Tour Information

Visitors should note that the Tower of London after-hours tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as the historic site may be subject to occasional closures.

Mask-wearing or proof of vaccination may also be required, and tour organizers will need the full names of all participants for security purposes.

When planning your visit, keep these important considerations in mind:

1. The tour isn’t accessible for those in wheelchairs due to the historic nature of the site.

2. Certain areas may be closed temporarily, so be prepared for potential changes to the itinerary.

3. You may be required to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to participate.

4. Provide your full name to the organizers to ensure a smooth check-in process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Photos are generally allowed during the tour. However, guests are advised to check with the tour guide as photography may be restricted in certain areas or during the private Ceremony of the Keys.

Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, as stated in the important information. However, the tour provider may be able to accommodate other disabilities with advance notice. Guests should inquire about accessibility when booking the tour.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation and refund policy allows guests to cancel up to 24 hours prior to the tour and receive a full refund. No-shows or cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour is open to guests of all ages, though it may not be suitable for young children. There are no specific age restrictions, but the content and duration may be challenging for very young participants.

Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, guests are not permitted to bring food or drinks on the Tower of London after-hours tour. The tour focuses on the castle’s history and traditions, and consuming outside items is not allowed during the experience.

Recap

The Tower of London’s exclusive after-hours tour offers a rare chance to witness the historic Ceremony of the Keys and explore the iconic landmark’s captivating secrets.

Led by knowledgeable Yeoman Warders, visitors uncover the Tower’s haunting tales of ghosts and its unique association with animals, providing an unforgettable experience in the shadows of the night.

You can check if your dates are available here: