Marvel at the guards protecting the Crown Jewels.
Marvel at the guards protecting the Crown Jewels.
Included in palace admission (members go free)
See the sentries posted outside the Jewel House and The Queen’s House. Marvel at their military dress, unique to each regiment.
As serving military personnel, the Tower Guard work alongside the Yeoman Warders and the Tower Wardens to protect the Crown Jewels and ensure the security of the Tower of London.
The Tower Guard take part in the three daily ceremonies: the Ceremonial Opening, the Ceremony of the Word and the Ceremony of the Keys.
During the Ceremony of the Keys, armed guards provide an escort for the Chief Yeoman Warder. Performed at exactly 21:52 every night for hundreds of years, this ancient ceremony locks the outer gates of the fortress for the night. The keys are delivered to the monarch's representative in the Tower, the Resident Governor.
Information for visitors
Please be aware that sentries on duty are serving military personnel. Visitors are advised to be respectful and stand clear when the guards are marching and performing their official duties.
Five Regiments of Foot Guards in the Household Division perform ceremonial public duties at the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and Windsor Castle. They are:
Other UK and Commonwealth regiments have also performed public duties at the Tower.
Be part of this ancient tradition, which has taken place every night for at least 700 years in the Tower of London.
Tickets for the Ceremony of the Keys are free but must be booked in advance. This event is very popular and becomes fully booked very quickly.
More information
Be part of this ancient tradition, which has taken place every night for at least 700 years in the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London.
Daily
Tower of London
21:30-22:05
Separate ticket (advance booking required)
Discover captivating stories of pain and passion, treachery and torture on the Yeoman Warder tours at the Tower of London.
Daily
Tower of London
Tours begin every 30 minutes
Included in palace admission (members go free)
Prepare to be dazzled by this breathtaking, world famous collection of 23,578 gemstones at the Tower of London.
Open daily
Tower of London
Allow one hour
Included in palace admission (members go free)
Legend has it that if the six ravens ever leave the Tower of London, the Tower and the kingdom will fall. These products have been inspired by the Ravens that live at the Tower of London.
From £7.99
Explore one of the most exciting times in history with our high end range of arms and armour and medieval fancy dress
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Shop our products inspired by the almost 1000 years of history at the Tower of London
From £9.99