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Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London
London
Witness an ancient ceremony dating back over 700 years.
About
Step back in time and witness the Ceremony of the Keys, an ancient tradition that has secured the Tower of London for over 700 years. Hear the iconic exchange of 'Halt, who comes there?' as the Yeoman Warder locks up the fortress for the night. This atmospheric reenactment takes place daily amidst the historic battlements, safeguarding the Crown Jewels and other invaluable treasures.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
History enthusiasts, tradition seekers, unique cultural experiences
Vibe
Historic, traditional, atmospheric, solemn
Energy Level
Low
Budget
Low
Photo Friendly
No
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
£5.00 per ticket
Duration
35 minutes
Schedule
Tickets are released on a rolling monthly basis and sell out quickly. Visitors are admitted precisely at 21:30 and late arrivals will not be admitted. The ceremony concludes at 22:05.
Organizer
Historic Royal Palaces
Practical Information
Parking
There is no on-site parking, and the Tower is within the Congestion Charging Zone. Nearby parking options include Tower Hill Coach and Car Park (2-minute walk) at 50 Lower Thames Street, EC3R 6DT, and Minories car park (10-minute walk) at 1 Shorter Street, E1 8LP. The Tower Hill Coach and Car Park offers allocated bays for Blue Badge holders and a free coach drop-off facility for stays under 15 minutes.
Accessibility
Limited accessibility is available. Visitors with special requirements are encouraged to email VisitorServices.TOL@hrp.org.uk for assistance. Further details can be found on the Tower's accessibility page.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
No toilet or refreshment facilities are available on-site.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book your tickets the moment they are released, as they sell out extremely quickly due to the ceremony's popularity and limited capacity.
- Arrive precisely at 21:30; the gates close strictly at this time, and no exceptions are made for latecomers.
- As no refreshments or restrooms are available, plan accordingly by using facilities before arrival and bringing any necessary personal items.
- Photography is not permitted, so focus on experiencing the historic atmosphere and sounds of the ceremony rather than trying to capture images.
- Consider the limited accessibility and email VisitorServices.TOL@hrp.org.uk in advance if you have any specific needs to ensure a smoother visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ceremony of the Keys?
It is an ancient tradition dating back over 700 years where the Yeoman Warder locks up the Tower of London for the night, involving a specific exchange of keys and passwords.
When does the ceremony take place?
The ceremony occurs daily, with visitors admitted at 21:30 and the event concluding at 22:05.
How can I get tickets?
Tickets must be pre-booked online only and are released on a rolling monthly basis. They are in high demand and sell out quickly.
Can I change my booking date?
Changes to unused admission tickets can be made by contacting the Contact Centre on 0333 320 6000 or emailing info@hrp.org.uk, subject to terms and availability, and at least 3 working days before the new visit date.
Is photography allowed during the ceremony?
No, photography is not permitted during the Ceremony of the Keys.