Video: 'Beatles Anthology Part 4 '64 August to '65 August' (Sept. 21, 1964, at 17:58-18:25)

(Monday, September 21, 1964, 9:35 p.m. BST; during The Beatles’ 1964 North American tour) — The Beatles arrived back at London Airport (now Heathrow) this evening, concluding their groundbreaking first North American tour.

Thousands of adoring fans, who had gathered on the roof of the Queen’s Building, greeted the Fab Four with cheers and applause as they deplaned.

Despite their triumphant return, the four Beatles looked visibly weary after their whirlwind journey across the United States and Canada.

John Lennon, wearing sunglasses despite the late hour, led the way down the stairway from the aircraft, followed closely by Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr.

The band members, though clearly tired, managed smiles for the cameras that were waiting to capture the moment.

Standing a few steps behind his now-former employers, press officer Derek Taylor observed the scene as police dealt with an eager fan who had made it onto the tarmac. Taylor had resigned from his position at the end of the tour but was still fulfilling his duties until the close of the year.

The Beatles’ return to London marked the end of a tour that has solidified their status as international superstars. From coast to coast, they were met with sold-out shows, screaming fans, and unprecedented media attention.

The group’s homecoming this evening was no different, as Londoners turned out in droves to welcome back their hometown heroes.