BRITAIN talks to Chief Yeoman Warder, Pete McGowran, about resident ravens, age-old traditions and that iconic uniform
Yeoman Warders – nicknamed Beefeaters – are the ceremonial guardians of the Tower of London and still swear allegiance to the Queen. In addition to manning the Tower and all things within it, they have been historically responsible for the supervision of State Prisoners. In modern times, Beefeaters lead tours of the Tower, present lectures and are on hand to answer visitors’ questions.
Chief Yeoman Warder, Pete McGowran, gives us a glimpse of what life is like as a resident and guardian of the Tower of London.
How did you become a Yeoman Warder?
You have to have to have spent over 22 years in her Majesty’s Armed Forces. I spent over 25 years in the Royal Air Force. You must have reached the rank of Sergeant or equivalent and you must have been awarded a Long Service and Good Conduct medal. I had all three so I decided to apply. I was working overseas and was on holiday in London when I decided to go for the job as my wife said I’d be good at it, stood up there shouting and acting. I went for it and surprised myself when I got it.
Why are Yeoman Warders called Beefeaters?
We don’t know. In days of old we were paid in rations of food. It’s probably come from those days. A decent bodyguard of the monarchy would also make sure he ate like a bodyguard. He would have been eating the meat of our kings and queens.
What’s it like being a Beefeater?
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Take The High Road
The North Coast 500 is an epic route that takes you past some of the country’s most spellbinding scenery
Where To Stay In 2021
Whether it’s a country house escape, a rustic bolthole or a sophisticated city stay, you’ll find your perfect getaway on these pages
The EMPEROR'S ISLE
Tresco was once a treeless and windswept island, the haunt of smugglers. Dramatically transformed by one man’s vision, it is now one of Britain’s most beautiful spots
Hidden Cornwall
Discover the beautiful, beguiling and rugged land of West Penwith in the far reaches of Cornwall
Wonders of Wales
With its wild cliffs, pretty coves and puffins galore, St Brides Bay holds the best of Pembrokeshire
Yorkshire's MOORS & SHORES
Equal parts mystical moor and secluded seashore, the Yorkshire coast beats some of Britain’s more traditional summer destinations hands down
PEAK PERFORMANCE
From heathery moors to rolling hills and underground caverns, the Peak District is home to some of the most majestic landscapes in the country
Culture CAPITAL
After a year of stop-start openings, London's museums are welcoming visitors back in 2021 with an array of blockbuster exhibitions
HISTORIC NORFOLK
Spend time exploring this peaceful county, whose stately homes are a grand counterpoint to its unadorned rural landscapes
1066 COUNTRY
England’s sunny south coast has a rich heritage, harbouring ancient castles and evocative landscapes that tell the story of the Battle of Hastings and beyond
