What are Beefeaters?
Beefeaters are the Yeoman Warders of the Tower of London, ceremonial guards who have protected the Tower since Tudor times. Today, they are best known for giving lively guided tours to visitors.
The Yeoman Warders were created by Henry VII in 1485 as part of the royal bodyguard. They have guarded the Tower and its prisoners for centuries.
The origin of the name Beefeater is uncertain, but it is often linked to the fact that guards were once given rations of beef.
Who can become a Beefeater
To become a Yeoman Warder, a person must have served at least 22 years in the armed forces, reached a senior rank and have a record of good conduct.
Beefeaters live with their families inside the Tower of London. In 2007, Moira Cameron became the first woman appointed as a Yeoman Warder.
They wear a dark blue uniform with red trim for daily duties and a red and gold Tudor-style uniform for ceremonial occasions. The Gin brand Beefeater uses their image. The Ravenmaster, one of the Yeoman Warders, cares for the Tower's ravens.