tower of london night tour christmas

• Historical Sites in England >

Tower of London Night Tour

The Tower of London night tour is available on selected Sunday’s throughout the year, beginning at 7pm. Led by Yeoman Warders, you’ll visit some of the most gruesome sights in the Tower, and hear spooky tales to accompany it. Discover the secrets behind the ancient walls, and learn more about its history with sites like Traitors’ Gate and the Bloody Tower.

2019 Dates:

• 06, 13, 20 and 27 January 2019
• 03, 10, 17 and 24 February 2019
• 03, 10, 17 and 24 March 2019
• 07 and 14 April 2019

For more information, see here .

Tower of London Night Tour – Yeoman Warder

more things to do

Bridgerton Filming Location Tours

Highclere Castle Opening Dates 2024

6 Favourite Museums in London

Visiting Leeds Castle

Top 10 Castles & Palaces in England

• London Attractions
• London Tours
• Tower of London
• Crown Jewels
• White Tower
• Beefeater Tour
• Fusilier Museum
• Visitor Facilities
• Plan Your Visit
• Guided Tours
• Restaurants
• Nearby Attractions
• London Theatre Tickets
• Harry Potter London Tours
• Heathrow Airport transfers
• Madame Tussauds London
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium
• Up At The O2 Climb
• Buckingham Palace
• London To Stonehenge Tours
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• London To Windsor Castle Tours
• Tower Bridge
• National Express London
• Westminster Abbey
• Kew Gardens
• Hampton Court Palace
• Downton Abbey
• Frameless London
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Sightseeing Cruises
• Dinner Cruises
• Lunch Cruises
• Travel Guide
• Things to do
• Trip Planner
• Where to Eat
• Festivals and Events
• Travel Tips

Christmas at Tower of London | Top Attractions, Parties & More

Christmas 2024 at tower of london.

Picture the Tower of London adorned with festive cheer—its ancient stones bathed in the warm glow of Christmas lights. A magical atmosphere envelopes this historic fortress as carolers serenade visitors, and the scent of seasonal treats fills the air. From the iconic White Tower to the historic grounds, the Tower of London transforms into a beautiful yuletide wonder.

Why Visit Tower of London During Christmas?

• Experience Tower of London in a festive setting, where a blend of history and Christmas spirit will create a magical atmosphere.
• Watch the iconic fortress get lit up and bathed in the warm glow of Christmas lights, presenting a sight to remember.
• Enjoy the holiday season with special events and performances, from carolers spreading cheer to themed activities that will add a joyful twist to your visit.
• Indulge in the flavors of Christmas as the air is filled with the delightful scent of seasonal treats. From hot beverages to traditional treats, the Tower offers a number of choices.

Top Things to do on Christmas at Tower of London

Royal Ceremonies

Learn about the Tower's royal coronation customs, showcased with a display that honors the King's coronation year. Take part in a procession, uncover which king received the crown on Christmas Day, and marvel at the magnificent coronation throne.

Victorian Festivity

Find out what Christmas was like during Victorian times at the Tower of London. Join the Tower postman in his quest to deliver a urgent Christmas parcels, meet characters dressed up around the area as Victorian tourists, soldiers or lively postmen as you walk around. There will also be Christmas carols presented by a talented group of local musicians.

Date: 27 - 31 December 2023

Timings: 10 AM - 4:30 PM

Seasonal Treats

There are a number of cafes in and around the Tower of London where you can grab a bite to eat during Christmas. Make your holiday outing memorable with a scrumptious mince pie and a comforting cup of hot chocolate from one of the charming cafés in Tower of London.

Private Parties

You can arrange private events and parties at the Tower of London. There are several venues suitable within the Tower such as the Boutique and the Pavillion. Such a historical backdrop is will certainly be a treat this festive season. With sparkling champagne, entertainment and delicious food it will surely be a night to remember.

Plan Your Christmas at Tower of London

• Tube: London Underground has 11 lines that operates from 5 AM until midnight.
• Bus: There are plenty of London's iconic double-decker buses that will take you around the city.

• Budget:   Heeton Concept Hotels , Travelodge London Central Waterloo , Brick Lane hotel
• Mid-range:  : Holiday Inn London - Bloomsbury, an IHG Hotel , Premier Inn London County Hall hotel , Novotel London Paddington
• Luxury:  : Charlotte Street Hotel , JW Marriott Grosvenor House London , Bulgari Hotel London

• Côte St Katharine Docks:  Côte St. Katharine Docks offers contemporary French cuisine, with regional dishes and timeless classics.
• Byward Kitchen and Bar:  Byward Kitchen and Bar is a hidden gem nestled beside a charming church in a garden square, offering a delightful British menu.
• Bodean's Tower Hill:  Bodean's Tower Hill is a split-level diner that invites you to savor mouthwatering burgers, BBQ ribs, and wings.
• Zizzi - St Katharine's Docks:  Zizzi at St. Katharine's Docks is an Italian eatery renowned for its delectable pizzas, pastas and calzones presented on rustic wooden boards.

• London winters can be chilly, so dress warmly, especially if you plan to explore the outdoor areas of the Tower.
• Secure entry tickets to Tower of London in advance to avoid long queues.
• Consider visiting in the evening when the Christmas lights illuminate the Tower.
• Explore Christmas markets in and around the Tower for unique and festive souvenirs.
• Capture the festive beauty of the Tower during Christmas, from the twinkling lights to the historical architecture.
• Be mindful of increased visitor numbers during the holiday season.

Book Tickets and Tours to Tower of London

Frequently asked questions about christmas at tower of london.

Christmas at the Tower of London is an enchanting experience, with the historic fortress adorned in festive lights. The atmosphere will be magical, featuring carolers, seasonal treats, and a special festive ambiance that will be a sight to remember.

Yes, Tower of London is open during December, except for 24, 25 and 26 December.

During Christmas, Tower of London is closed. However, it is open till 23 December and reopens on 27 December. Timings are 9 AM-4:30 PM usually but on Mondays and Sundays until 23 December, it will open at 10 AM.

During Christmas, you can experience the Tower of London bathed in festive lights, explore historical buildings, and enjoy seasonal treats. From the iconic architecture to the Crown Jewels exhibit, there are many must-see attractions.

Absolutely! Visiting the Tower of London during Christmas adds a unique festive ambience to the experience. The special events and the opportunity to explore historical sights in a holiday setting will make it a memorable and worthwhile visit.

Christmas events at the Tower of London include caroling sessions, themed activities, and special christmas treats.

The Best London by Night, Christmas Lights Tours and Evening River Cruises

Tis the season to be jolly! And so it should be after more than 2 years of travel restrictions and 3 years since the last time people had proper fun and enjoyed the spirit of Christmas. If you’re looking for fun things to do in London in the evening or want to know what London would look like at night, well, London is still stunning as ever! The best London by night, Christmas lights and evening cruises is seeing the beautifully lit sights and being closer to the Christmas lights of London on a half open top, double decker bus or on a cruise vessel?

See the Christmas lights of Regent Street, Oxford Street, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus and more. There are also other London by Night tours that also include sights such as The London Eye, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben. In addition, there’s one night time tour that goes to Harrods and also covers the area of Kensington where you will see the Royal Albert Hall, Natural History Museum and more.

Alternatively, if you are looking to up the ante this festive season, why not have some Christmas drinks on London’s only open top bar bus? Yes! That’s correct! There’s a bar bus that takes in some of London’s sights. Wrap up under warm blankets (which are provided), relax and enjoy the Christmas lights and the magnificent landmarks as you travel directly under the angels above Regent Street and under Oxford Street’s Christmas lights. See Trafalgar Square’s Christmas tree and the Christmas market, and see London with family or friends and/or visitors in a new light (pardon the pun).

If you purchase the bar bus Christmas lights tour with the 2 drinks option, you will be able to choose your drinks from a small choice on board. There’s a selection of winter warmers such as mulled wine or hot chocolate to prosecco, rose, gin and tonic, beer and soft drinks. These are available to purchase on board the bar bus. Learn More

Caveat! As with all the tours, there are limited places and whilst children under 5 years travel can free of charge whilst sitting on your lap, you may be asked to purchase a child seat for them if you would like your child to be seated.

Christmas Day Cruises

If you’re planning to be in London over the festive period, why not go an Afternoon Tea cruise, evening cruise or a dinner cruise? Better still, why not welcome the New Year in style on cruise? Feel the magic in the air during a Christmas Day lunch cruise! Do something a little different this Christmas Day and sail down the River Thames during an enchanting 3 hour 15 minute cruise.

You will board the Thames Cruiser and enjoy a Welcome glass of sparkling wine to kick off your Christmas Day lunch cruise in London. The modern sightseeing boat features a roomy, open-air deck and large glass windows for city sightseeing at its most spectacular! The interior will be splendidly decorated for this special day. Take your seat at the reserved table and get ready for your festive Christmas Day lunch to begin! You’ll be served four delicious courses comprised of traditional Christmas fare, followed by tea and coffee with mini mince pies to complete the feast. Learn More

Thames Christmas Party Cruise

Get into the Christmas spirit this season on the River Thames with a delicious lunch on a cruise! This three hour-long ride promises to a joyful mix of lovely views, delicious food and festive cheer. Prior to your meal you’ll be welcomed on-board with a glass of sparkling wine. It will then be time for an early Christmas meal consisting of three courses!

For the Thames Christmas Lunch Party Cruise your meal will be complemented by the on-board vocalist singing festive music. Boarding from Westminster Pier at: 12:30pm and Returning at 4:00pm

For the Thames Christmas Dinner Party Cruise you will also indulge in half bottle of wine while dancing to the music of the onboard live DJ. Boarding from Westminster Pier at: 6:30pm and returning at 11:00pm

Days of Operations: Daily from 29th of November 2021 – 18th of December 2021.

Christmas Day Sightseeing Cruise

This Thames Circular Cruise Sightseeing cruise is your chance to take in the sights of London when it’s at its most peaceful. See the best sights of the city, including Tower Bridge, Tower of London, the Coca-Cola London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

This one-hour long cruise will be departing from Westminster Pier at various times throughout Christmas Day from 9:45am to 2:45pm (last departure). Both upper and lower decks will be fully heated so no need to worry about the chilly temperatures and relax as you listen to the live commentary on board. There’s an on-board licensed bar and you can also purchase mince pies as well as mulled wine. Learn More

Theme Nights on the River Thames

Choose from an interactive Murder Mystery or Elvis Tribute Night

Murder Mystery is a fun and interactive dining experience with great entertainment and stunning views – what better way to enjoy an evening out? Enjoy a cruise along the Thames with glass of fizz and 3 course meal but it’s not going to be plain sailing! When there is a murderer on board everyone must turn detective to catch the killer. Immerse yourself into the role and see how good you will be at playing detective and solving clues onboard the 3-hour cruise or sit back and enjoy all that the night has to offer along the river – the choice is yours.

Elvis Tribute Night a live Elvis tribute performance by a top artiste, a chance to have a dance and great views of the Thames. An award-winning Elvis tribute artist will give a stunning performance as Elvis, singing his way up and down the Thames while you enjoy your three-course dining cruise.

The Theme Nights on the River Thames depart from two different piers.

Murder Mystery Night Boards at 19:30 from Tower Millennium Pier Lower Thames St, London EC3N 4DT

Elvis Tribute Night Boards at 19.45 from Westminster Pier SW1A 2JH

Afternoon Tea Cruise on the River Thames

This one and a half hour River Cruise has all the traditional Afternoon Tea with all the trimmings. Afternoon Tea while cruising along the Thames is another civilised way to pass the afternoon away. Why not gather a group of like minded family and friends to enjoy a gentle cruise, tea and cake an perhaps some bubbly too?

The cruise departs at 03:15 PM from Tower Pier, London, EC3N 4DT.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

There are plenty of cruises offering the best views of London’s amazing New Year’s fireworks display. The boats will compete for the best positions on either side of Waterloo Bridge and Westminster Bridge as none will be allowed in between the two bridges, mostly for safety reasons and crowd control. Others may be moored at piers such as Bankside Pier, Tower Pier etc. The key is to book early to avoid disappointment especially as this will be first time people will be able to let their hair down.

Before booking a New Year’s Eve cruise, do check what is included or not included in the product you are purchasing. Some cruises are just a cruise only without food. However, they will have a cash bar with snacks on board. We say ‘cash bar’ because many will not accept credit cards and are cash only purchases. Therefore, do check with the cruise operator what facilities are being offered if you are not sure. Not all resellers will be aware of this either. In addition, check which pier the cruise of your choice departs from and get there by the boarding time stated on your ticket and not the departure time because they won’t wait for you if you are late. This is mainly because of strict regulations and other cruises needing the pier to dock.

Another thing to check is whether the dinner being offered is on board the vessel or off-site such as at a pub or restaurant prior to the cruise departing. And don’t take luggage or large bags of any type as they will not be allowed on the vessels especially on these special occasions. One more thing, check the dress code! Nothing more disappointing than being turned away because you wore trainers, sports shoes (call them what you like) and/or shorts! And you won’t get your money back either!

Roads may close early in preparation for the fireworks display. Therefore, please check road closures on Transport For London’s website www.tfl.gov.uk before you travel and make sure you know how to get to the appropriate pier. You are advised to arrive early and to allow plenty of time to make your way to the pier as this year will be an exceptional one for party goers.

To see what cruises may be available, click here

Most cruises sailing on New Year’s Eve will most likely be drinks and snack only cruises. However, we have given you a couple of examples below of a cruise that includes dinner but one is off-site and the other on board the vessel.

New Year’s Eve Thames cruise with fireworks on board the Thomas Doggett

Actually, Thomas Doggett was an Irish born and comedian who became the manager of the Drury Lane theatre towards the end of the 17 th century. He set up the The Race for Doggett’s Coat and Badge in 1715 making it the world’s oldest known boat race. The boat is named after him and is used for sightseeing cruises.

So what better way to welcome the New Year than on a sensational boat cruise on the Thames on board the Thomas Doggett? This cruise is drinks and snacks only and includes live music entertainment In addition, it has a Cash bar on-board the cruise (card payments will not be accepted). Boarding is at 9:15pm from Bankside Pier, New Globe Walk, London, SE1 9DT. Learn More

New Year’s Eve Thames Cruise with Fireworks on board the Sapele

This cruise is drinks and snacks only but includes live music. In addition, it is a Cash bar on-board the vessel (card payments will not be accepted). Board the Sapele at 9:00pm at Bankside Pier, New Globe Walk, London, SE1 9DT and prepare to toast at midnight (or all night) with the vessel’s fully-stocked cash bar. Take in the British capital’s most famous sights and striking city lights as you cruise through the heart of London. Learn More

New Year’s Eve Cruise on the Sarpedon

This cruise offers an off-site Three-course meal at Doggett’s Coat and Badge pub, 1 Blackfriars Bridge, Greater, London, SE1 9UD. Dinner will be served 6:30pm to 8:30pm, so ideally arrive by 5:30pm. Then it’s a 10 minute walk (may be longer if you’ve had a few drinks!) over Blackfriars Bridge to Crown Pier where you will board the Sarpedon at 9:00pm for your New Year’s Cruise. You also have the option to do this cruise without dinner. Note that this is also a Cash bar on-board the vessel (card payments will not accepted). There is live music entertainment. Learn More

New Year’s Eve Aboard The Silver Sturgeon

The Silver Sturgeon is a very nice and large vessel (60m+ long) with spacious outside decks to take in the panoramic views and has generous interior spaces to dine on board. This cruise includes dinner on board the vessel. A minimum of 2 persons can book this dinner cruise which boards at 7:30pm from Tower Bridge Quay, St Katharine’s Way, E1Q 1LD. Learn More

So there we have it. This is just a snapshot of what is availble in London. Have fun and a Merry Christmas to you all.

Tower of London Night Tours

Beefeaters (Yeoman Warders)

Like What You See?

See it in person!

View price & availability:

VIP Tower of London: After Hours Tour & Ceremony of the Keys

Quite possibly London's most 'British' Experience. Do not miss out!

London Unattached - Luxury London Lifestyle

Luxury London Lifestyle for Metropolitan Singles and Couples - food, travel, restaurant reviews - London Unattached

Twilight Tours at the Tower of London

November 7, 2019 by Fiona Maclean Leave a Comment

Last Updated on November 8, 2019

A Spine-Tingling Tour of the Tower of London.

November marks the start of dark, wintery nights when any sane person snuggles up in front of the fire in the evenings. For those with a robust constitution though, there’s an opportunity to see the Tower of London as you’ve never seen it before.  Through the winter months until April 2020, on selected Sundays, you can visit the Tower at Night, guided by the Yeoman Warders around the battlements, through the courtyards, to Traitor’s Gate and the Bloody Tower. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Tower of London is usually very busy – nearly three million people visit each year.  A Twilight Tour lets you see some of the key parts of the Tower of London when most visitors have left for the evening.

I take the Tower of London for granted ( perhaps like a lot of Londoners) and haven’t visited inside since I was in my early teens.  So I jumped at the chance to go on one of this year’s first Twilight Tours.  We even got to chat with two of the yeoman of the guards who took us around the Tower.  Did you know, they live in the Tower of London, with their families in lodgings which date back to the 13th Century.  They even have their own pub within the grounds of the Tower! 

To become a Yeoman Warder, you have to be a former Warrant Officer or Senior Non-Commissioned Officer and have served at least 22 years in one of the Armed Forces.  You also have to hold a long service and good conduct medal.  And, then you need to be selected – competition is fierce and we learnt from one our guides that he was picked from 175 applicants!  But, not many people can give their address as ‘The Tower of London’ and both our guides said they regularly had to pinch themselves when they woke up to make sure they were not dreaming.

One of their roles is to take visitors like us on tours around the Tower.  The earliest part of the Tower, the ‘White Tower’ was built by William the Conqueror as a way to keep an eye on his new subjects.  He actually picked a site that was originally a Roman Fort – as our guide said – what better foundations and you can see part of the Roman building at the base of the Tower, extending out into what would have been the Roman walls around the City of London.  If you visit the Tower of London during normal opening hours, you’ll find the Royal Armouries collections, an original executioner’s block from the 18th century and more.  The basement of the White Tower is thought to be where prisoners such as Guy Fawkes were tortured and interrogated.

The curtain wall to the north, east and western sides were built by King Henry III in 1238 and further major development was carried out by his son Edward I between 1275 and 1285.  Although part of the complex was used as a prison, for the most part at this time, the Tower of London was a grand palace which was a royal residence.  

In the 16th and 17th Century, the Tower of London became predominantly a prison and various members of the Royal Family ( for example Elizabeth the I, Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey were held here).  Two of the wives of Henry VIII,  Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard number among the 10 prisoners actually executed within the Tower on Tower Green – most prisoners were taken to the public execution site at Tower Hill. 

The last execution was of German Spy Josef Jakobs in 1941 and the final prisoners to be held in the Tower were the notorious Kray Twins in 1952, who were both temporarily held in the military prison for assaulting a police constable who tried to arrest them for being absent without leave from their military service in September 1952.

We learnt that, although the Yeomen of the Guard are housed in the Tower, there are certain parts which are unpopular because they are said to be haunted.  Stories are told of the two brothers, The Princes in the Tower, Edward V and his brother Richard of Shrewsbury, of Lady Jane Grey and of Anne Boleyn walking around the White Tower with her head under her arm.  Nevertheless, after a peek at the Tower of London out of hours, I think I’d be happy to put up with the odd ghost for such an impressive place to live.

If you are interested in a Twilight Tour of the Tower, tickets are priced at £27.50 or £25 for Historic Royal Palace members and can be bought from the Tower of London website

About Fiona Maclean

London based freelance writer and marketing consultant. I edit London-Unattached.com and write for a number of other publications. With a music degree and a background in marketing across many sectors, my passions include all types of music, food, restaurants, wine and travel

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of London for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy London without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Christmas at the Tower of London

• Things to do, pop-ups

Time Out says

Explore full-on displays of festive decor and lit-up animal-themed zones across the famous fortress. From majestic elephants to a twinkling winter wonderland scene where polar bears roam and playful ravens nest; this is worth a visit for kids and kid-like adults alike.

An email you’ll actually love

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Time Out Offers FAQ
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Offers
• Time Out Worldwide

Roaming Required

Find the spirit of christmas at the tower of london.

Last updated: 29 July 2023

Is 2022 the year you discover Christmas at the Tower of London?

This festive season the 1,000-year-old palace has been transformed into a winter wonderland suitable for singles, couples , and for the whole family.

Set to the Christmas carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas , a dozen carefully chosen festive installations have been erected throughout the Tower, all based on different aspects of the fortress’s rich past, and feature some of its most famous residents.

Some of the links in this post as affiliate links which means that if you click on them and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you, we may earn a small commission. This helps keep the lights on at Roaming Required HQ. We sincerely thank you for your support.

What installations can I see at the Tower of London this Christmas?

Each installation has a connection to the Tower in one way or another. From the famous resident Ravens, to the crowns and jewels which draw thousands of visitors every year, to the Queens that have called the Tower home, I suggest you make a whole day of visiting the Tower. 

Best to wrap up in your warm woollies and wander around London’s iconic castle at this special time of year. 

As you stroll around the Tower, test your knowledge of heraldry with the ‘10 shining shields’ on the White Tower steps, or ‘12 Yeoman Warders’ who have protected the Tower since King Henry VIII’s reign.

Discover ‘the eighth Henry’ and his ‘6 Tudor wives’ as they pose near to the now lost royal apartments. Each of Henry’s wives is adorned with boughs of fir, twinkling lights and jewels befitting a Queen. They can be found on the South Lawn situated just beside the White Tower.  Don’t forget to look up to see the four distinctive domed cupolas Henry had installed for his second wife. Which was whom?

The mnemonic device might help you recall the fate of each of Henry’s wives:

Divorced, beheaded, died Divorced, beheaded, survived

Near the Byward Tower, visitors will find a treasure chest of ‘5 gold coins’, recalling the history of the Royal Mint within the Tower’s walls, which produced most of the coins of the realm until 1810. 

As you enter, or exit, the Tower of London, keep an eye out on the Middle Tower lawn, where the ‘3 lordly lions’ are situated, in support of England’s World Cup campaign. 

The full list of festive installations at the Tower of London are:

On the first day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… A polar bear swimming in the Thames 

On the second day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… Two chapels royal 

On the third day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… Three lordly lions  

On the fourth day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… Four boozy barrels 

Short on time? Pin it now to read later

On the fifth day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… Five gold coins

On the sixth day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… Six Tudor wives

On the seventh day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… Seven sovereign crowns 

On the eighth day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… The eighth Henry 

On the ninth day of Christmas, the Tower shared with me… Nine rowdy ravens  

On the tenth day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… Ten shining shields 

On the eleventh day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… An eleventh century fortress 

On the twelfth day of Christmas the Tower shared with me… Twelve Yeoman Warders

Do I need a separate ticket to explore Christmas at the Tower of London? 

No, you don’t need an additional ticket.

Unlike Superbloom , the festive-season installations are included in your ticket price, but don’t forget to pick up a free Christmas at the Tower of London trail map and find all the song’s famous verses and the corresponding installations.

Buying tickets for the Tower of London

You can buy tickets from the Ticket Office outside the Tower of London, however if you buy your tickets online in advance you’ll save yourself the hassle of queuing. 

Getting to the Tower of London

Travelling by tube.

The nearest Tube is Tower Hill, serviced by Circle & District line tubes.

Travelling by Bus

Many buses service the Tower of London. 

Route 15 is a personal favourite, running from Blackwall to Charing Cross/Trafalgar Square, going past many iconic London landmarks including St Paul’s Cathedral , the Royal Courts of Justice, Aldwych and Australia’s High Commission (which doubled as Gringotts Wizarding Bank Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone), and down Strand past the famous Savoy hotel before terminating just neat Trafalgar Square.

Should you need help navigating the London transport system, we recommend using free apps City Mapper or Google Maps to help you navigate the options. 

Travelling by Bicycle

Those using the Santander Cycle scheme, a docking station, Tower Gardens, is right beside the Tower.  The cycle superhighway, CS3, is a segregated cycle route that runs straight past the Tower of London.

Tower of London Entry Times

The Tower of London is open every day, except for 24, 25, 26 December 2022 and 01 January 2023 when it is closed. 

Christmas at the Tower of London is running now until 3 January 2023.

Hours of Operation

In winter, the Tower opens at either 9am or 10am depending on the day, and closes at 16:30.

Be aware that last admission is at 15:30, and the last Yeoman Warder guided tour (which is included in your ticket) departs at 14:30. 

The Essentials

Christmas at the tower of london.

• 23 November 2022 – 3 January 2023 
• Note the Tower is closed on 24, 25, 26 December 2022 and 01 January 2023.
• Christmas installations are included in admission: Adults £29.90 / Children (aged 5-15) £14.90 / Concessions £24 / HRP Members FREE
• Book your Tower tickets

Like it? Pin it for Later

Roma was raised on the white sandy beaches of Australia's East Coast, and she has called London home since 2012. With an adventurous spirit, a love of regional travel and anything food related, Roma looks to encourage working professionals to follow their dreams to travel the world one adventure and short break at a time. Don't let a full-time career stop you from seeing the world. Come roam with us!

Search hotels and more...

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Some of the links used on Roaming Required are affiliate links, which means that if you click on them and make a purchase then may earn a small commission, at absolutely no additional cost to you. This helps keep the lights on at Roaming Required HQ and the content being created. We sincerely thank you for your support.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

London by Night Open Top Bus Tour with Christmas Lights

• Live English speaking guide on board
• Panoramic 1 hour 30 minutes tour of London by night. See the capital dazzle & glitter for Christmas
• See celebrated areas of London including Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly
• Drive past the world-famous lights of London’s Regent Street and Oxford Street
• Food and beverages (unless stated differently)
• 5b Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PE, UK Departure Point: 1 Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7NA (nearest tube station is Waterloo, 2-minute walk).
• Infants must sit on laps
• Near public transportation
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• Please Note: This is not a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour and customers will need to remain on the bus for the duration of the tour
• Our vehicles are modern, comfortable, and kept to the highest standards of cleanliness, including a deep clean every day
• The tour itinerary and order may change. There will be no breaks during the tour. No restroom available on board.
• Dates of operations subject to change as Christmas Lights in London are still to be confirmed.
• No food will be provided on this tour
• We reserve the right to refuse entry onto the bus.
• Please arrive 15min prior to your departure time to allow time for boarding.
• Please note tour can take up to 1 hours & 30 Mins, subject to traffic on the day of travel. There will be a Live English Guide
• Buses will be cleaned thoroughly after every tour.
• **You can cancel your reservation for this product up to 48 hours before departure and get a refund in full.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 72 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Piccadilly Circus
• Westminster Abbey
• Oxford Street
• Regent Street

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 5b Belvedere Rd 5b Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PE, UK Departure Point: 1 Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7NA (nearest tube station is Waterloo, 2-minute walk). See address & details
• 1 London Eye Stop: 15 minutes Board an open top bus tour to see some of London’s most famous sights all ready for Christmas. The London Eye’s glass pods will be lit up like fairy lights over the River Thames, with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament towering over the city nearby. A perfect photo opportunity! Experience the excitement of London at night this Christmas Eve. The twinkling lights of London glow even brighter during December and this open top bus tour will take you right into the midst of the festivities on one of the most joyful days of the year! A live guide or multilingual audio guide will be on board the bus to tell you all about the parts of London the tour passes and share some fun facts. Sightseeing in London this Christmas has never been so stunning! Read more Pass by Westminster Abbey London Eye Big Ben Oxford Street Regent Street Piccadilly Circus
• You'll return to the starting point

• michaelawW5511AK 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful view and delicious delights We had a wonderful time with Hetel, Nilza and Farhim on this noon trip through London. The view from the bus is nice and the food and drinks were delicious. Could highly recommend taking this tour. Read more Written April 27, 2024
• LifeDeathTRAVEL 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great day with Bruce & Dan! Whirlwind day but well worth it!! Got to see three amazing sites with a great tour guide, Bruce, and driver, Dan. Highly recommend the tour if you want to catch a glimpse into the countryside and a day out of the hustle and bustle of the city! Read more Written April 26, 2024
• robe348 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic tour of London with our expert guide Sandra We absolutely loved this tour and our expert guide, Sandra. Sandra is a professional guide which requires extensive training over multiple years. She is a walking encyclopedia of history with a great sense of humor! All of us on the tour were engaged and listened intently to everything she said. My wife had a brain aneurysm rupture last year and has been recovering for the last 9 months. She is able to walk short distances and Sandra was extra mindful to ensure we didn’t fall behind. We ended up doing 10,000 steps over 9 hours!! We were her little chickadees following her around happily listening to her tell us the history of what we were seeing. We saw everything listed on the tour and a lot more from the bus and didn’t feel rushed in any way. We had time to get a coffee or lunch at a few stops as well. We ended at the Eye which was also an amazing experience. Golden Tours has put together an exceptional tour and Sandra took it over the edge. It was the highlight of our trip to the UK and France. Strongly recommended!! Read more Written April 26, 2024
• youngster63 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Of all the trips and places to visit in London this is a must. This is a great way to see the many famous landmarks of London, our tour guide Mark was very knowledgable and good at explaining about all the buildings and people associated with the history of the city. Very approachable, and humorous at the right moments which made it interesting the whole way round. Read more Written April 26, 2024
• Footprints426092 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Night tour with Jack The tour was informative and fun - we got to see all of the major hits of London as we drove through the sunset and evening lights. The highlight was really our tour guide, Jack. We have done night tours all around the world and Jack’s sense of humor and knowledge of the city really made this one of the best we’ve ever done! Highly recommend the night tour and highly recommend Jack! Read more Written April 26, 2024
• Kimscott2022 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Want that hour plus back Tour- not at all. Bus ride into a rural area and saw hedges, houses and trees. Wondering WTH we were doing. Did whole loop because once you go you are a captive. Hop off in the middle of NoWHEre . There was a farm you could visit and buy some ridiculous priced items like jams that I don’t want. Should have stopped at a PUB so you could drink to forget except you were waiting for your time slot to go to Windsor Castle( No interior photos allowed) Read more Written April 26, 2024
• 755laitha 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful! Absolutely fantastic tour with Golden Tours! We visited Bath, Stonehenge, and Windsor Castle, and each site was more breathtaking than the last. Our guide, Danxia, was exceptionally knowledgeable and engaging, making the history come alive with each story she shared. Tony, our driver, ensured a smooth and timely journey, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommend for anyone looking to explore these iconic sites in comfort and style. A definite five-star experience! Read more Written April 26, 2024
• F6621ZYmarisag 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome and fun! It was so awesome to see so much in just one day! Perfect thing to do when you have little time to see things :) highly recommend it. Each time at each place is quick but enough to get the main highlights. Boyfriend and I loved it! Read more Written April 26, 2024
• Cosmopolitan265850 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great Guide and Great Sights Our guide Bruce was the best. Very informative, knowledgeable and funny. He got us first in line at Windsor Castle and made our trip so efficient. Highly recommend this tour if you want to see these amazing sights in one day from London. Read more Written April 26, 2024
• jacquic941 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Emma was the only good thing about this experience. I was really disappointed. There was no tour guide on most of the busses and the on board system wasn't working either! Ad to that the useless map they give you and we had no idea where we were, where to get off, or where to go. Right at the end of the day on our last bus we finally had a tour guide who was brilliant and very helpful. If it wasn't for Emma I would definitely be asking for my money back. Read more Written April 26, 2024
• 151carlf 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles It was great Dave Vassallo gave us an amazing informative ride around London. He took the time to explain Avery thing in great detail and we enjoyed his cometary and humor. Read more Written April 26, 2024
• elizabethsP9897VN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Informative and fun Jim was a fantastic tour guide. He went above and beyond to make the trip informative and fun. He was an excellent driver and I felt very safe. Read more Written April 26, 2024
• Madnik05109088 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The UNESCO heritage tour made better by an amazing guide (Danxia) I booked this tour as my in laws were visiting me and my husband and I wanted to show them a good time. Boy, was I glad that I booked this. Our guide, Danxia was extremely knowledgeable, patient and so very kind. We were all excited to see the Windsor castle, Stonehenge and the city of Bath but Danxia made it an unforgettable experience for all of us. My in laws thoroughly enjoyed the entire tour and it definitely made their trip to UK even better. Malcolm drove us to all our destinations in a brilliant way. Once again special thanks to Danxia and Malcolm for taking such good care of all of us throughout the trip. Read more Written April 25, 2024
• 123christalh 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Jack the Ripper Walking Tour What an insightful tour! Alice was an amazing guide. I told her I was there with public health students, and she made sure to add extra information about public health’s role in London at the time. She also did not push a specific theory which I appreciated! Read more Written April 25, 2024
• Steven W 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Quick overview Was a good tour to get an overview of the 3 sites. Only getting 1-1.5hrs at each location and queuing (we arrived before Windsor Castle opened), so we were first in but some of the attractions then didn't open for a further 20-30 mins. We will need to return to Windsor Castle & Bath to explore further. Our guides Oliver & Eduardo were excellent. Very engaging & informative. Read more Written April 25, 2024

More to explore in London

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Buy it with

London by Night Open Top Bus Tour with Christmas Lights provided by Golden Tours

• London Walks
• Museums and Galleries
• Day Tours From London
• Overnight Tours
• Stonehenge Tours
• Military Tours
• Rambling Tours
• Virtual Tours of Britain
• Paris Day Tours
• Day Tours from Paris
• Overnight Tours of France
• Normandy Tours
• Airport Transfers
• Rome Day Tours
• Day Tours from Rome
• Overnight Tours of Italy
• Special Interest Tours
• Virtual Tours

The Tower of London at Night

The Tower of London © British Tours Ltd. With Kind Permission of Historic Royal Palaces. Panoramic photography by Jason Doll-Steinberg

To view the panorama drag the image with your mouse.

Share with friends

In its 900 year history, The Tower of London has been a fortress, palace, prison, jewel house, arsenal, mint, menagerie and place of execution. Royalty, notables, traitors and criminals have met a grisly end here including Guy Fawkes tortured into confession after the discovery of the Gunpowder Plot, two of Henry Vlll's wives executed on Tower Green away from the ghoulish crowds, and the Little Princes murdered by their uncle Richard lll.

Tours you might be interested in

Private london tour, london by night.

British Tours Blog

Read our blog for news and special interest touring ideas!

With such limited time on the schedule, it was important that our guide be knowledgeable, energetic and engaging. John exceeded our expectations and provided two memorable days. If our travels bring us back to Europe, we know that British Tours will be our company of choice when selecting tour guide services

Sylvette Chenette, NH, USA

Who is your Guide?

Our guides are personable educated men and women, chosen for their knowledge, special interests, backgrounds and personality. They will collect you by car from any central London location and guide you inside places of historic importance

Follow us on our journey

This Is The Ultimate Festive Walking Tour Of London’s Christmas Lights

Christmas may be over but London is still aglow with twinkly lights and festive displays; this walking tour is the very best way to see (most of) them before they come down!

Let me set the scene for you: you have absolutely no idea what day it is, you haven’t left the house in almost a week, you’re gradually morphing into a Quality Street, and you’re considering a new career in property because you managed to put three houses on Mayfair during a game of Monopoly last night. That’s right folks, it’s the crimbo limbo .

Now, as much as I whole-heartedly support hibernating in pajamas until the new year ; we all know that getting some fresh air and getting some steps in is good for us. And what better way to do both of those things than with a festive walking tour of our lovely capital city ? Christmas may be over but London is still glowing, glistening and giving out some well-needed end-of-year cheer. So, we’ve mapped out the ultimate festive walking tour of London to help you dash your way around the best and the brightest Christmas lights in the city before they’re taken down. You can thank us later…

Start your walking tour at London’s most Christmassy pub

Your journey will begin at the iconic Churchill Arms in Kensington . Here you can admire the magically festive display that adorns its entire exterior (which features a whopping 80 Christmas trees , FYI), and grab a glass of liquid courage to help you brave the cold.

Make your way to Kensington High Street and down Gloucester Road, until you reach Da Mario

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Da Mario Kensington (@da_mario_kensington)

This beloved, family-owned spot is actually Princess Diana ‘s old local Italian restaurant , and is always vibrantly lit-up for the festive season.

Continue through South Kensington and past the Natural History Museum

Although the museum is sadly no longer home to one of London’s best ice rinks ; it’s still well worth a mention. As far as I’m concerned, if one gets the opportunity to gawp at the Natural History Museum ; one should always take that opportunity.

Continue all the way up Brompton Road until you reach Fortnum & Mason

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fortnum & Mason (@fortnums)

Fortnum & Mason’s annual advent calendar and Christmas window display truly never disappoints.

Head to Mayfair via New Bond Street

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lola le Pink Figaro (@lepinkfigaro)

Here’s where you can marvel at London’s most impressive Christmas shopfronts courtesy of Cartier, Chanel and Dior (just to name a few). Oh, and don’t miss this opportunity to do some well-deserved window shopping. Or real shopping. No judgment here.

Take a quick detour to Annabel’s

This much-loved spot on Berkeley Square unveils a sensational new design every year. This year’s uplifting display features an impressive hot air balloon that stretches over and beyond the building’s three floors. Well worth a little detour, in my humble opinion.

From there, head up to Regent Street

It’s an oldie but a goodie. Who can resist the annual event of trying to awkwardly position yourself in front of the camera to make it look like you have angel wings? Our videographer, Phoebe, certainly couldn’t, that’s for sure…

And then on to Oxford Street

Another Christmas-in-London stalwart; the Oxford Street stars are as synonymous with London as angry commuters and big red buses. Be warned, though: Oxford Street during the post-Christmas sales is not for the faint-hearted.

One street over (past Liberty’s, if you can resist popping in) is Carnaby Street

View this post on Instagram A post shared by My Way In London (@mywayinlondon)

The Carnaby Street lights are always a personal favourite of mine and this year they’re – quite literally – out of this world. There’s a plethora of pubs, restaurants and coffee shops for a mid-walk pit-stop here so you can gaze at the lights whilst refueling and rehydrating for the remainder of the festive walk. What more could you ask for?

Make your way through Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Christmas in Leicester Square (@leicestersqxmas)

Top tip: make your way through both of these as quickly as possible because you do not want to get caught up in the rush and chaos here. Trust us.

Now on to the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree …

Each year, the lovely people of Norway donate a tree to London as a thank-you for helping them out in World War II, and have done since 1947, which is rather nice of them. Each year, Londoners love to poke fun at said tree with phrases like “world’s tallest cucumber” often bandied about. But look, lots of effort is required to bring the tree to Trafalgar Square and get it lit, so it’s well worth a visit if you’re in town.

From there, take a wander across the river (and revel in the gorgeous view of the city) to the Southbank

Here you can reward your high step count with a cup of something warm and cosy, and some delicious street food too.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Secret London (@secret.london)

So, there you have it – our ultimate festive walking tour of London’s Christmas lights . We know, we know: so many lights, so little time – but we hope this helps. Most of the city’s lights and displays will be shining until next weekend ( January 6-7 ), so make the most of them while you can, as soon enough they’ll be gone for another year!

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER