Ceremony of the Keys- Is it worth it?
 

I've learned about the ceremony of the keys through fodors;about how to send off for the tickets because they only give out so many, etc. but when all is said and done, is it really worth seeing? Is it something that might just seem anti-climatic like what some say about the changing of the guard?

You didn't enjoy the Changing of the Guard? You would certainly find the Key Ceremony dull then. Personally I love all that pomp and circumstance.

I haven't seen the changing of the guard, but I think I would like it although I'm not sure about my kids. I was referring to a thread where others thought it was anti-climatic. I was just wondering what the thought is on this (ceremony of the keys) and will then have to make up my own mind. I take it Zeus, that you enjoyed both?

I certainly enjoyed it. I think it helps to remember that this is not a show being put on for the tourists, it's a ceremony that has been carried out every night for 700 years or something like that.

I love history and appreciate ceremony and rituals, so it was worth it to me.

How old are your kids? We saw the Ceremony of the Keys last June with our 'kids' ages 16 and 19. They were interested, and so were we two adults. I enjoyed the idea of being in that cool and somewhat creepy Tower at dusk. One of my kids said it reminded them of a scene from Wizard of Oz, minus the flying monkeys!
If you like tradition and history, you'd probably like it. A speaker tells you all about what they are doing and why, and how long it's been done. Depending on your tastes, of course, it's still hard to knock a freebie, especially in expensive London! I'd say go for it.

OK - the ceremony is free and at night when all the other sites are closed (except for theatre of course) so can't quite see how one might not consider it "worth it"

But - the changing of the guard = several thousand people standing around jostling for postition to see a band march past a pretty ordinary looking bldg.

Keys Ceremony = approx 40 people alone inside a dark Tower of London w/ a Yeoman Warder to explain the history/ceremony, a military guard, and lone bugler - that I guarantee will give you chills.

Not the same sort of thing at all - yes it is "worth" it . . . . . .

Have been to both and enjoyed the ceremony of the keys far more than the changing of the guard. Go for it!

I enjoyed seeing something a bit off the path that the average visitor to London doesn't see. I also love the changing of the guard as well.

Well, this is all I need to hear! I just have to get my information sent off so I can ensure that I get the tickets. Thanks for all your help, I'm sure we will all enjoy it!

Yes, yes, yes. One of my favorite experiences in London. So atmospheric to be in there in the dark with hardly anyone else around. Spooky, historic, interesting, fun. I HIGHLY recommend it.

Yes Namaka, I really enjoyed both. I'd like to see both again. Next trip I plan on doing the Jack the Ripper Tour that leaves from the Underground station near the Tower of London. Sounds creepy and fascinating.

Well, I went to the site on how to get tickets for the Ceremony of the Keys. It stated that you must send the request with 2 international reply coupons? The Postal Service no longer sells them and I didn't know what to do so we email DH aunt in Bedford,Eng. and had her get them, which she promptly did; Yea! I'll let you know how much we enjoy it!

Hi Namaka,

I was able to get International Reply Coupons at my post office. It took a little nudging and some face time, but after about a week, I got my 2! Actually, I was a dork and bought 3. I'm sure they have my extra IRC they can spare.

Many (most) PO branches no longer stock International reply couplons - but all branches can order them for you. Just an FYI for those who don't have a handy aunt in the UK.

I really enjoyed the ceremony. My daughter's opinion is that she much preferred the Beatles walk and visiting Abbey Road. They'll tell you about the history of the ceremony when you get there, but you might like to read up on it in advance.

Our little neighborhood post office had the international reply coupons on hand, no problem. But this was a year ago, and maybe things have changed--?

I loved the Cereony of the Keys, and I didn't even consider going to the Changing of the Guard.

To a lesser extent, I enjoyed the Dismount of the Horse Guards.

Keith