Beefeaters keep their distance as Tower reopens

A BRITISH institution which is home to the Crown Jewels has opened to the public once again but with the traditional Beefeaters standing a strict distance apart.

A special ceremony was held as the Tower of London lowered its drawbridge to welcome back visitors for the first time since March.

Just 1,000 are to be allowed to attend on any given day, instead of the usual crowds, and guests will be guided by signs and oneway systems to ensure they stay apart.

The famous Yeoman Warders, guards commonly known as Beefeaters, are to be stationed at fixed points around the site, however any photographs must be taken at a 2m distance.

“We’re really excited to have visitors back in the Tower of London,” said chief Yeoman warder Pete McGowran.

“I can’t wait. Nearly four months without visitors is novel at first, having the place to ourselves, but after a week you want to see the crowds again.”

On a summer’s day, the tower can often see up to 14,000 visitors, and now is a chance for guests to enjoy the quiet, he added.

“It’s so important we get this place opened up and bring it alive again and share our history.”

HERITAGE RETURNS:

PICTURE: LEON NEAL/GETTY IMAGES. Yeoman Warders, commonly known as Beefeaters, march across the Middle Drawbridge during a ceremonial event to mark the reopening to the public of the Tower of London; tourism hotspots such as the Tower are reopening their doors, hoping to draw in visitors on the opportunity to see the sights during these much quieter times.