The VIP Tower of London: After Hours Tour & Ceremony of the Keys offers a truly exclusive experience. As one of London’s most iconic landmarks, the Tower takes on a whole new atmosphere after the crowds have gone home. Led by a knowledgeable Yeoman Warder, this small-group tour provides guests with intimate access to the Tower’s hidden gems and fascinating history. The evening culminates in the captivating Ceremony of the Keys, a centuries-old ritual that seals the Tower’s gates for the night. Those lucky enough to witness this time-honored tradition are sure to leave with a deeper appreciation for the Tower’s enduring legacy.
Key Points
- Exclusive after-hours access to the Tower of London for a small group of up to 20 guests.
- Guided tour led by a knowledgeable Yeoman Warder, providing insights into the tower’s rich history.
- Opportunity to witness the centuries-old Ceremony of the Keys, the nightly ritual of locking the tower’s gates.
- Explore the tower’s iconic gates and grounds without the crowds, offering a unique perspective.
- Personalized experience with a small group size, allowing for more intimate exploration of the site.
Tour Overview
The VIP Tower of London: After Hours Tour & Ceremony of the Keys offers guests a unique opportunity to explore the iconic fortress after it has closed to the general public.
Led by an engaging Yeoman Warder guide, the expertly guided walking tour provides small groups of 20 people or fewer with exclusive access to the Tower of London, culminating in the captivating Ceremony of the Keys.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows visitors to witness the age-old ritual of locking up the Tower for the night, a tradition that has remained unchanged for centuries.
With after-hours access and a maximum group size of 20, this VIP tour provides an intimate and unforgettable glimpse into the storied history of this remarkable landmark.
Inclusions
This VIP tour includes an expertly guided walking tour that provides guests with exclusive after-hours access to the Tower of London.
It also features the captivating Ceremony of the Keys, where visitors can witness the age-old ritual of locking up the iconic fortress for the night.
Led by a knowledgeable Yeoman Warder guide, the walking tour immerses guests in the rich history and hidden stories of this legendary landmark.
Guests will have the rare opportunity to explore the Tower of London without the crowds, gaining a unique perspective on this remarkable site.
The Ceremony of the Keys is a time-honored tradition dating back centuries, offering a truly unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to witness it.
Meeting and Pickup
Guests typically meet at the West Gate of the Tower of London, located at 35 Tower Hill, London EC3N 4DR, for the start of this exclusive after-hours tour. This is the designated meeting point where they’ll be welcomed by their expert Yeoman Warder guide.
The tour ends at the same location, so participants don’t have to worry about finding their way back.
It’s worth noting that this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and guests may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues.
The small group size of 20 travelers maximum ensures a more personalized and intimate experience throughout the tour.
Restrictions and Policies
Given the specialized nature of this tour, certain restrictions and policies apply. Participants should be aware that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and they may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues on the itinerary. Plus, access to some areas, such as the Crown Jewels, isn’t included in this tour.
Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. This tour doesn’t include access inside the buildings. The tour has a maximum of 20 travelers.
Cancellation policy allows for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. Participants should arrive at the designated meeting point on time.
Additional Information
With a maximum of just 20 travelers, this VIP Tower of London tour offers an intimate experience.
Guests can expect an expertly guided walking tour, access to the Tower after regular hours, and the opportunity to witness the Ceremony of the Keys.
This exclusive access allows visitors to explore the iconic landmark without the crowds.
Should travelers need to cancel, they can do so up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
However, they should note that certain sites may be subject to occasional closures, and they may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues.
Highlights of the Tour
Highlights of the Tour
This exclusive VIP tour offers guests a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the Tower of London after regular hours, culminating in the captivating Ceremony of the Keys.
Guests will be accompanied by a knowledgeable Yeoman Warder guide who’ll lead them on an expertly curated walking tour, providing fascinating insights into the Tower’s rich history.
The highlights of this tour include:
- Strolling through the Tower’s iconic gates and grounds without the crowds
- Witnessing the ancient Ceremony of the Keys, a nightly ritual dating back to the 14th century
- Exploring hidden corners and learning about the Tower’s storied past
- Experiencing the Tower’s unique atmosphere in the tranquility of the evening
- Enjoying a small-group setting with a maximum of 20 guests for a more personalized experience.
What to Expect
Guests can expect a captivating exploration of the Tower of London’s storied past during this exclusive after-hours tour led by a knowledgeable Yeoman Warder guide.
Participants will embark on an expertly guided walking tour, venturing into the tower’s historic grounds after it has closed to the general public.
The highlight of the experience is the Ceremony of the Keys, a centuries-old ritual that marks the nightly locking of the tower’s gates. Guests will witness this solemn ceremony up close, gaining rare access to this private event.
Throughout the tour, the Yeoman Warder guide will share fascinating insights and anecdotes, bringing the tower’s rich history to life.
This exclusive experience offers a unique perspective on one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Tower of London After Hours Tour and Ceremony of the Keys often raises several common questions from interested travelers.
While the Tower’s narrow paths and uneven surfaces make it not wheelchair accessible, the tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the historic ceremony of the Tower’s nightly closure.
The Ceremony of the Keys is a 700-year-old tradition involving the iconic Yeoman Warders.
Unfortunately, this tour doesn’t include access to the Crown Jewels. However, guests will enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the Tower and an expertly guided exploration of its storied grounds.
- Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
- What’s the Ceremony of the Keys?
- Can I see the Crown Jewels?
- What’s included in the tour?
- When and where does the tour meet?
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Duration of the Tour?
This tour lasts for an undisclosed amount of time. The duration is not explicitly stated in the provided information. Attendees should expect the tour to last several hours, as it includes an after-hours visit and a special ceremony.
Can I Bring a Backpack or Large Bag?
Backpacks and large bags are generally not recommended on this tour. They may be cumbersome and could interfere with the group’s ability to move through the tour sites easily. Small, personal items are generally permitted.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children due to the late evening timing and the restricted access to certain areas. However, older children interested in history may find the experience engaging.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Guests are generally allowed to take photos during the tour, although they may be restricted in certain areas or during specific events. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any photography guidelines before the tour begins.
Is There an Option to Upgrade or Customize the Tour?
There are no options to upgrade or customize this tour. It is a pre-set itinerary with a maximum group size of 20 guests. However, you can book private tours for larger groups or request special accommodations if needed.
Recap
The VIP Tower of London: After Hours Tour & Ceremony of the Keys offers a unique and exclusive opportunity to explore the iconic landmark after it’s closed to the public.
Guests can witness the centuries-old Ceremony of the Keys and gain an intimate perspective on the Tower’s rich history and hidden stories, led by an engaging Yeoman Warder guide.
It’s a rare chance to experience the Tower in a way that’s not available during regular opening hours.
