We're taking a wee break from the Olympics today to do a bit of sightseeing. Yeoman Warders (like Jim) protect the Tower of London.
Yeoman of the Guard are the personal body guards of the Monarch. Originating from the days of Henry VIII, the Yeoman are not people in fancy dress for tourists, they must have served a minimum of 22 years in the Military to get these jobs. This is a position of honour and prestige that hasn't changed in centuries. Although during her reign, Queen Victoria stipulated they should not just be strong, loyal and honourable they should also be handsome. Seems that still applies.
When you visit the Tower of London you step back hundreds of years, such an incredible tapestry of history, during August and September there are new re-enactment shows- even if you were born and bred in London you really should experience it all over again!!!
Queues of tourists are very long there.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a relaxing gig.
ReplyDeleteAre there any female Warders?
I've just tweeted the link to your lovely post, Mo.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your summer. MG
Oh wow, wish I was there. I'd love to go!
ReplyDeleteBy the way, if you remember that butterfly information, let me know.
ReplyDeleteI loved visiting the Tower of London! :)So much history
ReplyDeleteIt's an incredible history and I do love seeing the guards with their uniforms. Can you believe, I refused to step foot there for ages b/c I considered it too crowded with tourists, despite the genuine amazingness of the site...gotta get over my phobia of big tourist crowds!
ReplyDeleteIt really is a step back in time. I'd love to see a re-enactment.
ReplyDeleteSounds very interesting... never heard of them Yeomen. Hope I get to visit this place someday...
ReplyDeleteI loved the Tower of London but I haven't been for 3 or 4 years - I must go back!!
ReplyDeletewonder what a Beefeater hat would fetch on ebay?
ReplyDeleteEngland has some great traditions. I hope they continue. An occasional anachronism is fine with me.
ReplyDeleteThe Tower of London is steeped in history and tradition without doubt a major attraction visited the city now you can give your opinion and share your photos
ReplyDeletehttp://www.trivago.pt/londres-38715/castelomuralhaspal%C3%A1cios/torre-de-londres-12893
I do believe I saw a story about a man who was in training for this position on our Olympics TV channel. As you mention, it requires that a person have served for a number of years in the military, and then involves a long period of very intense training! Amazing!
ReplyDeleteYes, one of the highlights of my first visit to London was seeing these guys in person!
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