The Ceremony of the Keys is the traditional locking up of the Tower of London and has taken place on each and every night, without fail, for at least 700 years. The importance of securing this fortress for the night is still very relevant because, although the Monarch no longer resides at this royal palace, the Crown Jewels and many other valuables still do!

The special BSL nights are:

Tuesday 12 February 2008
Thursday 15 May 2008
Wednesday 10 September 2008

Visitors will be admitted to the Tower under escort at 21:30 hrs precisely. Please note that, due to the traditional nature of this event, late arrivals will not be admitted. The ceremony will conclude at 22:05 after which all visitors will be escorted to the exit. 

We do not charge guests for attending the Ceremony of the Keys.  The Tower of London is looked after by Historic Royal Palaces, an independent charity that receives no funding from the Government or the Crown. However, if you feel able to make a voluntary contribution of approximately £5 per person when attending, it will enable us to keep this ceremony alive, meet the cost of the military guard and ensure the tradition is enjoyed for generations to come.

General information:

An interpreter will be provided. 

There are no toilet or refreshment facilities available. 

Photography is not permitted during any part of the ceremony. 

Applications:

Please apply in writing including names of all attendees.

Contact details:

Jenny Andrews
Visitor Services Co-ordinator
HM Tower of London 
London 
EC3N 4AB 

T: 020 3166 6266
F: 020 3166 6265
Jennifer.andrews@hrp.org.uk