They’re commonly known as “Beefeaters”. However their real title is “Yeomen Warders of His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London” They are the men, and now women, who appear in uniform, guiding visitors around the Tower of London. However there is a lot more to them than providing those tours.

The body of Warders are also the King’s Bodyguard on ceremonial occasions and you may have seen them during the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, or the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

Each Warder must meet a specific set of criteria in order to even apply to the role. They must:

• Have served in the Armed Forces for at least 22 years.
• Achieved the rank of Warrant Officer.
• They must hold the Long Service Medal.
• They must hold the Good Conduct Medal.

If I recall correctly, this particular Warder has now retired and does after-dinner speaking.

Personally, I think it is people like him who should feature heavily in the National Honours lists. Here’s to Sir Bill!

A visit to the Tower of London is a great experience and whichever Warder guides you round, you’ll have an entertaining and educational visit.