Who’d have thought an almost 700 year old tradition would still be going strong as we continue our journey into the 21st century? That’s exactly what’s happened here, with the Changing of the Keys Ceremony still being in high demand and a popular attraction within the Tower of London.
If you can tear yourself away from everyday life for a couple of days this summer, look no further than a weekend break in London. With so many sights to see and attractions to appreciate, you won’t be disappointed. Click here to book cheap hotels from Travelodge to ensure that your stay in the city can be a budget one, and start planning your itinerary to ensure you don’t miss anything.
Planning for a few months down the line? Consider applying for tickets to see the Changing of the Keys ceremony in the Tower of London. While the Changing of the Guards may be extraordinarily popular with Joe Public day after day, the Keys ceremony isn’t as well documented and as such, tickets are exceptionally difficult to get hold of.
In fact, the operator of the ceremony requires parties to apply, in writing, if they want tickets, at least 2 months in advance of your visit. While it requires exceptional planning skills and definite visit dates, they are free, which often makes up for it.
Home to the Crown Jewels and the Royal Armour, it’s no wonder the Tower of London is under lock and key and secured 24 hours a day. Of course, while armed guards and fortified stone walls will likely be enough to keep the baddies out, it’d all be useless without a lock and key. Every night, the Chief Yeoman Warder and his armed entourage, ensure the doors to the Tower of London are locked and return the keys for safekeeping in the Queen’s House every night. No matter what has happened over the last 700 years, one thing has been constant – this ceremony.
You can be part of this unique experience by applying for tickets to see the ceremony. At 9:30pm, your group will be escorted to the main gates on Water Lane where they will be met by the Chief Yeoman Warder, at exactly 9:53pm. Gates will be locked, with you standing by to admire this traditional ritual. Afterwards, you will be able to follow the Chief Yeoman Warder into the main grounds, where you will witness the final part of the ceremony, whereby guards will be asked to present arms. The Last Post is played and the ceremony is complete!
It’s quite incredible to realize that this level of pageantry still exists in the 21st century but it does. Be a part of it by applying for tickets at least 2 months in advance (3 during the summer months). Applications have to be done in writing; more information can be found via the Tower of London website.
If this sounds up your street, make it part of your weekend visit to London. Search for cheap hotels from Travelodge and start arranging what else can fill your itinerary, too.
Related posts: Traveling? See Which Bank Account is Appropriate for You