In the heart of London, within the historic confines of the 900-year-old Tower of London, lies a secret that eludes the millions of visitors exploring its ancient corridors and marveling at the Crown Jewels – London’s most exclusive pub, The Keys.
While the Tower of London stands as the UK’s most popular historic attraction, drawing over 3 million visitors annually, The Keys remains a hidden gem reserved for a select few. Operated by the Tower’s 35 serving Yeomen Warders, commonly known as “Beefeaters,” this exclusive pub is not open to the general public. Only the Yeoman Warders and their invited guests are granted access, adding an air of mystery and privilege to this historic watering hole.
Nestled within the Tower’s medieval walls, The Keys may appear like any other beloved British pub at first glance. Adorned with leather banquettes, wooden tables, and an intricately decorated carpet, its décor features regal touches, including a ceremonial ax from the 16th century and cabinets displaying Yeoman Warder uniforms.
The pub plays a vital role in the community, serving as a hub for the Tower’s residents, which include Beefeaters and their families. With lodgings, a doctor’s office, and a chapel, the Tower functions like a village for those residing within its historic confines. The pub becomes a focal point for socializing, celebrating special occasions, or unwinding after a busy day.
Beyond its community function, The Keys also serves as a platform for charitable endeavors. Hosting groups of colleagues and friends, the Yeomen Warders use the pub to raise funds for various charities. This tradition aligns with the Tower’s historical significance, as it was customary for retiring guards to sell their jobs, providing financial support for their families. The modern-day toast, “May you never die a Yeoman Warder,” pays homage to this tradition and is accompanied by silver goblets and a cheer.
Robin Fuller, Chief of the Yeoman body, highlights the exclusive drinks at The Keys, supplied by UK brewery Marston’s. The pub is permitted to rebrand these drinks with names like Beefeater Bitter, Treason, and Yeoman 1485, reflecting the year of the Yeoman Warders’ founding.
The Tower of London has seen several pubs over the centuries, and The Keys inherits ancient traditions from its predecessors. The Yeomen Warders, who must be honorable ex-soldiers with a minimum of 22 years of service, continue to carry out these customs. While their historic role included guarding the Tower and supervising prisoners, today’s Yeomen spend much of their time engaging with tourists and sharing the Tower’s history.
Yeoman Gaoler Clive Towell notes the importance of their modern role, which involves welcoming visitors, leading tours, and sharing legends. The Yeomen’s distinctive ceremonial uniform, known as “reds,” includes a scarlet and gold tunic, a Tudor ruff, and black shoes, worn during state occasions. However, the familiar “Blue Undress” is worn for day-to-day duties, featuring a red and dark blue tunic and trousers with a Tudor bonnet.
Despite modernization, ancient traditions persist, including the Ceremony of the Keys. Every night, precisely at seven minutes to 10 p.m., Yeoman Fuller performs this ritual, part of the traditional locking up of the Tower. The ceremony, dating back over 740 years, underscores the Tower’s rich history and enduring significance.
In addition to ceremonies, centuries-old superstitions shape the Tower’s maintenance. The presence of ravens, believed to protect the fortress, is essential. By royal decree, six ravens are kept within the Tower’s grounds. Yeoman Ravenmaster Chris Skaife, responsible for caring for these revered birds, adheres to the belief that the Tower’s fate is intertwined with the ravens’ presence.
The Keys, with its rich history, exclusive access, and adherence to ancient traditions, stands as a unique and cherished part of the Tower of London’s legacy. As a living piece of history, it continues to be a gathering place for Yeomen Warders and a symbol of the Tower’s enduring allure.