Tower of London: After-Hours Tour with Ceremony of the Keys

Exploring the Tower of London after dark: a rare glimpse into history’s shadowy corners
Touring the Tower of London during daylight hours is a classic experience, but seeing it after hours adds a layer of magic and mystery that’s hard to match. This exclusive evening tour offers a chance to wander the fortress with fewer crowds, listen to captivating stories from seasoned Beefeater guides, and witness the ancient Ceremony of the Keys.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it provides access to the Tower’s grounds when they’re cloaked in night’s quiet, giving you a different perspective on its ancient walls. Second, the ceremony itself is a unique, time-honored tradition that most visitors only see in history books. Third, the guides—real Beefeaters—bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and humor that make the experience engaging and authentic.

A possible downside? The tour doesn’t include access inside the Crown Jewels or the Tower’s inner buildings, which might be a disappointment for those craving a full inside look. Still, if you’re after atmospheric storytelling and a taste of history’s darker side, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is especially ideal for history buffs, night-owl explorers, or anyone wanting a more intimate visit to one of London’s most iconic landmarks.

Good To Know

• Exclusive After-Hours Access offers a less crowded, more atmospheric experience of the Tower of London.
• Learn from seasoned Beefeater guides with military backgrounds and deep ties to the Tower’s history.
• Witness the ancient Ceremony of the Keys, a nightly ritual performed for over 700 years.
• Visit the historic Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula from outside, where notable figures like Anne Boleyn rest.
• Enjoy haunting tales of betrayal and power that bring the Tower’s past vividly to life.
• No access to the Crown Jewels or interior — focus is on outdoor grounds and storytelling.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Arrival and Meeting Point

The tour begins outside the Tower of London Shop, where you’ll meet a friendly representative holding a sign with “The Tour Guy” in red. Arriving 10 minutes early ensures you’re settled in before the guide begins. The meeting point’s easy to find, and the friendly staff quickly set the tone for a relaxed yet immersive evening.

Guided Tour of the Exterior Grounds

Once the gates close, your Beefeater guide—a seasoned veteran with a military background—takes charge. These guides aren’t just storytellers but living symbols of the Tower’s legacy, bringing authenticity and humor to every tale. We loved the way the guides share their deep connection to the Tower, making the stories resonate more strongly.

Throughout the 105-minute walk, you’ll traverse the Outer and Inner Wards, passing by notable sites like Traitors Gate—a water entrance with a dark history—and the White Tower, the Tower’s oldest structure. The tight, nighttime setting enhances the feeling of stepping back in time, especially as the Tower’s shadows stretch long across the grounds.

The Haunting Tales and Hidden Secrets

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is hearing stories of betrayal, imprisonment, and royal intrigue. As the guide shares tales of queens like Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, you get a vivid sense of the Tower’s role as both a royal residence and a formidable prison.

Guests noted how the guide’s storytelling was both funny and informative — “full of history and we really enjoyed the ritual of the Ceremony of the Keys,” says Chris. The guide detailed the Tower’s surprising origins as a zoo for exotic animals and royal menagerie, turning what you see today into a living museum of history.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula

An often-overlooked part of the Tower, this chapel is the final resting place for many executed queens and traitors. Though the tour observes from outside, it’s powerful to hear the stories of Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey, knowing their tombs lie within. The guide ensures you feel the weight of their stories without entering the sacred space.

The Ceremony of the Keys

The evening’s grand finale is the Ceremony of the Keys, a ritual performed every night for over 700 years. The Chief Warder, in full ceremonial dress, locks the Tower’s gates in a precise, time-honored process. This event is open to the public with a valid ticket, but being part of a small, exclusive group adds a special touch that’s hard to find during daytime visits.

Guests consistently mention how “incredible” and “like stepping back in time” it was to witness this ritual. It’s a rare opportunity to see a tradition that’s been maintained with such dedication, providing a tangible link to London’s past.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers the exterior grounds, including key points like Tower Green, Traitors Gate, and the White Tower from outside. The guided walk is led by a knowledgeable Beefeater, making every story engaging. You also attend the Ceremony of the Keys, a captivating, centuries-old tradition.

However, the tour does not include access to the Crown Jewels or inside the Tower buildings, which are separate attractions. This means the experience leans more toward outdoor exploration and storytelling rather than inside visits.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about 105 minutes and is scheduled at various times—check availability for your preferred slot. Arrive 10 minutes early and meet in front of the Tower Shop. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be outside for most of the experience.

Note that the tour is exclusively for outdoor grounds, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or who require strollers. No large bags, luggage, or baby strollers are allowed, emphasizing the need for practical planning.

Price and Value

At $158.04 per person, this experience offers a detailed, atmospheric encounter with London’s iconic fortress. While it doesn’t include inside access to the Crown Jewels, the combination of guided outdoor exploration and the Ceremony of the Keys makes it a distinct and memorable event. Guests feel they receive excellent value given the authenticity, storytelling quality, and unique access after hours.

The Authenticity and Atmosphere

Guests consistently praise the guides’ ability to blend humor, history, and military discipline—adding layers of authenticity. Reviewers like Benedetta appreciated her guide’s storytelling style, which kept her and her daughter captivated. The nighttime setting, with fewer visitors, brings a haunting, almost mystical tone to the experience.

The sense of stepping into a living museum—without the usual crowds—is what makes this tour special. Many mention how being in the Tower after hours felt like a secret adventure, an exclusive peek into London’s dark, layered past.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re fascinated by history’s darker stories, enjoy nighttime explorations, or want to witness an ancient tradition firsthand, this tour is perfect. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling, authenticity, and a more intimate experience outside the typical daytime crowds.

However, those seeking in-depth access to the Crown Jewels or inside the Tower’s buildings may want to explore other options, as this experience focuses on the grounds and external landmarks.

The Sum Up

This After-Hours Tower of London tour is a beautifully curated glimpse into centuries of royal and criminal stories, told by expert Beefeater guides. The combination of the atmospheric setting, historical tales, and the Ceremony of the Keys creates a memorable, almost cinematic experience.

It offers excellent value for those interested in authentic storytelling and unique traditions. The limited group size ensures a personal touch, making it feel like a special evening out rather than a generic tour.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, night-time explorers, and those curious about London’s darker past, this experience delivers a captivating journey through time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as spaces are limited and this experience is popular. Booking early guarantees your spot for the evening you prefer.

What is included in the tour?
You get a guided outdoor walk around the Tower’s grounds, led by a Beefeater, plus attendance at the Ceremony of the Keys.

Can I access the Crown Jewels during this tour?
No, this tour does not include access to the Crown Jewels or the interior of the Tower.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The experience is best suited for adults or older children, as the tour involves outdoor walking and historical storytelling. Baby strollers and large luggage aren’t permitted.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and weather-appropriate, as the tour is entirely outdoors and occurs in the evening.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for guests with mobility impairments or those needing assistance, since it involves walking outside.

This tour offers a rare, atmospheric look at the Tower of London, combining history, tradition, and storytelling in a way that’s both educational and entertaining. If you’re after an authentic experience that takes you beyond the usual daytime visit, it’s highly worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: