The Polytechnic Lodge – Ceremony of the Keys (Early 2025)
The Polytechnic Lodge, via one of its members, is attempting to book advanced tickets for us to visit the Tower of London to witness the Ceremony of the Keys.
The Ceremony of the Keys is an ancient ritual, held every evening at the Tower of London when the main gates are locked for the night. It is the oldest extant military ceremony in the world and is the best-known ceremonial tradition of the Tower.
The origins of the ceremony are unknown. It may have begun during the Middle Ages.
The ceremony has never been cancelled, and has been delayed only on a single occasion due to enemy action during World War Two.
Only a small number of visitors are allowed access to the ceremony each night, and it may be that our numbers will be strictly limited. The event is usually sold out at least 12 months in advance. As soon as the date becomes known and available members of The Polytechnic Lodge will have 24 hours to apply for a ticket via the lodge booking portal on a first come first served basis. Register your interest now with the lodge secretary and then watch this space!