The Beefeaters, officially known as Yeomen Warders, are ceremonial guardians of the Tower of London. They have been guarding the Tower since Tudor times and are all drawn from the Armed Forces. The name "Beefeater" is of uncertain origin, but it is believed to have come from the large rations of beef given to the Yeomen of the Guard, which were described as rich and hearty. The Yeomen of the Guard were the monarchs personal bodyguard who traveled with him everywhere, and Henry VIII decided that the Tower should be protected by part of the royal bodyguard.
Today, the Yeomen Warders role as ceremonial guard is a little more pleasant. They are responsible for looking after the Crown Jewels and giving tours to visitors about the Tower of London. They wear red-tinged uniforms that cause quite a commotion when striding through the grounds of the Tower, and tourists love snapping photos next to them. The first female Yeoman Warder began her stint at the Tower of London in 2007, breaking over 500 years of male-only Beefeater history.
To become a Beefeater, one must have at least 22 years of service in His Majestys Armed Forces, be awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct medal, be passionate about history and enthusiastic when talking to visitors about the Tower, have a good memory, and love London.
