Have you ever wondered what time the Ceremony of the Keys takes place at the Tower of London? This iconic ceremony has been carried out every night for over 700 years, making it one of the oldest military traditions in the world. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of this event and answer the question on everyone’s mind – what time does it start?
The History of the Ceremony
The Ceremony of the Keys dates back to the 14th century when King Edward III ordered that all gates to the Tower of London be locked at night as a security measure. The keys were entrusted to a trusted official known as the Chief Yeoman Warder who was responsible for securing them safely until morning.
Over time, this nightly ritual evolved into a formal ceremony that has been carried out every night since then, except during World War II when it was temporarily suspended due to blackout regulations.
What Happens During the Ceremony?
The ceremony is a solemn affair that involves several key participants, including the Chief Yeoman Warder, members of his guard, and soldiers from The Queen’s Guard. At exactly 9:53 pm, a duty drummers beats out a rhythm to signal that it’s time to begin.
The Chief Yeoman Warder emerges from his quarters carrying a lantern in one hand and his ceremonial staff in the other. He is escorted by four guards wearing traditional Tudor uniforms.
As they make their way across Tower Green towards Traitor’s Gate, they are challenged by a sentry with the words “Halt! Who comes there?” The Chief Yeoman Warder replies “The keys” before proceeding with his escort.
Once they arrive at Traitor’s Gate, another sentry challenges them with “Who goes there?” The reply is again “The keys.”
The sentry then asks “Whose keys?” to which The Chief Yeoman Warder responds “Queen Elizabeth’s keys.”
The guard then opens the gate, and The Chief Yeoman Warder proceeds to the Bloody Tower archway where he meets the duty officer who hands him a set of keys. He then returns to the main gate and secures it for the night.
What Time Does the Ceremony Take Place?
Now that we’ve explored the history and significance of the ceremony, let’s answer the question on everyone’s mind – what time does it take place?
The Ceremony of the Keys takes place every night at exactly 9:53 pm. It’s important to note that this is a highly controlled event, and access is strictly limited to those with pre-booked tickets. Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony is due to start, as late arrivals will not be admitted.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re planning a visit to London, be sure not to miss out on this historic event. The Ceremony of the Keys at Tower of London is a rare opportunity to witness an ancient tradition that has stood the test of time for over 700 years. Now that you know what time it takes place, be sure to book your tickets in advance and arrive early so you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
10 Related Question Answers Found
Are you planning a stay at the Tower Hotel London but unsure about what time you need to check out? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Check Out Time:
The check-out time at the Tower Hotel London is 12:00 PM.
Are you planning to visit the Tower of London soon? One of the most significant historical landmarks in London, this iconic building attracts millions of tourists every year. But, have you ever wondered what is the best time to visit the Tower of London?
If you’re planning a visit to the Tower of London, you may be wondering how long it takes to go around this historic site. The answer? It depends on how much time you have, and how thoroughly you want to explore.
If you’re planning a trip to London, one of the things you might be looking forward to is experiencing high tea. High tea is a quintessentially British tradition that involves enjoying a cup of tea, along with sweet and savory treats. But what time is high tea in London?
Are you planning a visit to the iconic Tower of London and wondering how much time to allocate for your visit? The answer is – it depends. The Tower of London is a vast complex with multiple attractions, and the time required to explore it fully can vary depending on your interests and pace.
The Tower of London has a long and fascinating history, and has been a place of both imprisonment and execution for centuries. While the last execution at the Tower was not too long ago, it’s important to understand the historical context surrounding these events. History of Executions at the Tower
The first recorded execution at the Tower of London took place in 1076, when a man named Ranulf Flambard was thrown into prison for corruption.
The Tower of London has a long and dark history, with many executions taking place within its walls over the centuries. However, the question remains: when was the last execution in the Tower of London? History of Executions in the Tower of London
The Tower of London was originally built as a royal palace and fortress in 1066 by William the Conqueror.
If you’re interested in trading forex, you may be wondering when the London forex session starts. The London session is one of the most active trading sessions in the world, and it’s important to know when it opens so you can plan your trades accordingly. What is the London Forex Session?
Are you planning a visit to the Tower of London, but wondering how much time you should allocate for the tour? Well, the answer to this question depends on various factors, such as your level of interest in history, your schedule, and the amount of time you want to spend exploring this iconic landmark. The Basic Tour
The basic tour of the Tower of London usually takes around two to three hours.
Are you planning a visit to the Tower of London and wondering how much time you should allocate for the tour? The answer is not straightforward as it depends on various factors such as your interests, pace, and time of the day. However, in this article, we will provide you with a rough estimate based on our experience.
