Tower of London
 

<BR>Leaving for London on Sat. I remember someone recommending watching the "exchange of keys" at the tower at night. I don't remember what you have to do to get to watch it happen. Was it free? If not. where would we purchase tickets and what exactly would I ask for? Thanks!

I think you're too late. You have to write in advance and have a ticket sent to you. Go to the Tower anyway, it's a great way to spend a half day. <BR>

Mary: I second the motion for visiting and touring the Tower of London. Don't miss it! We took the Beafeater's Tour and it was really informative and funny. The Queen's House is the most haunted house in London. (Read that in a book I bought for my grandson "The Most Haunted Houses in London". ) King Henry the VIII's two wives were beheaded there. It's where London started and got its name. Also has the crown jewels on display there. We spent five hours there and highly recommend it. Bon Voyage! <BR>Sherrie <BR>

It called "The Ceremony of the Key" and yes you do have to get tickets in advance (WAY in advance...30-60 days, I think). <BR> <BR>Basically what they are doing is locking up the the front gate of The Tower. You get history about the ceremony for locking the Tower and what they do if the Key (a person) does not show up for the locking up. The guards march and shout "Escort to the Key" as the escort the Key to the front gate(a catchy phrase we continued for the rest of our trip!). If you are into British ceremony, I highly recommend it.

Thank you for the good info on The Tower. We are looking forward to visiting London and will definitely head for The Tower! Sorry we'll miss the ceremony, though. I did send in advance for tickets to Buckingham Palace, so I'm still a happy camper. <BR>Happy traveling! <BR>

<BR> Does anyone have any info on where to send away to secure said tickets? I will be in London in Dec., and would like more info. An Address and pricing info would be appreciated. Thanks, Dan

Dan, <BR>Because the ceremony is limited to 12 or 15 people, it's extremely difficult to attend. There is no cost for tickets of admission, however you must request tickets via mail, to: <BR>Ceremony of the Keys, 2nd Floor, Waterloo Block, HM Tower of London EC3N4AB. Include a self addressed return envelope and two International Reply coupons (available from your post office). Because of the ceremony's popularity and limited number of attendees, you must list alternate dates when you can attend. Expect a reply in six to eight weeks.

Dan, Info from Wes is right on except you must list the names and address of all attedees. My application for tix was returned because I did not include names and address. Tom

Does anyone know about tickets to Buckingham Palace? I was not aware that you could tour the palace? What would be on the tour, and how do you get tickets? Thanks alot!

Beth: You asked about touring Buckingham Palace. The Palace is only open for a few weeks out of the year. August through October..don't have the exact dates. We were fortunate to have been there this year during the "open-season". We didn't buy tickets in advance. The ticket booth is in the Park across from the Palace. The tour was worth it...the rooms are very beautiful. Of course, you don't get into the private living quarters of the Queen, however, they take you through many many exquisitely decorated rooms where visitors to the Palace go as well as the throne room, the dining room, etc. You would enjoy it. When are you traveling? <BR>

I am leaving for London 10/23 and I was able to get ticket for the Ceremony of the Keys-I was very lucky I received them in two weeks time. Maybe the time of year?