Yeoman Warder uniform

The Yeoman Warders trace their origins back to the reign of Henry VII in the late 15th century when they were established as a royal bodyguard but are a separate entity from the Yeoman of the Guard corps of Royal Bodyguards of the British monarch, although the uniform is are very similar, the latter wearing also a cross belt from the left shoulder, used originally to support a short firearm.

Yeoman Warders are integral to the day-to-day life of the Tower of London and in particular the Tower's traditions providing for the many visitors a vital source about its history and traditions. One of the Tower's most significant events is the daily Ceremony of the Keys. Shortly before 10.00 pm the Chief Yeoman Warder, escorted by four armed soldiers, locks the Tower's Main Gate. He is then challenged by a sentry who having confirmed that the Chief Warder has the keys, says 'Pass, King Charles' keys and all's well'. At the steps near The White Tower a ceremonial guard of soldiers await and who then 'Present Arms' in salute of the King's Keys. The Chief Warder raised his Tudor bonnet proclaiming 'God preserve King Charles' to which all present reply 'Amen'. The keys are then secured safely whilst the 'Last Post', the final military bugle call of the day, is sounded. This ceremony has taken place over the same piece of ground, in war as well as peace, for about 700 years.