ive military veterans from WDUS Lodge No. 2258 travelled to London on 13th–14th May 2026 for a memorable visit to one of the capital’s most historic landmarks, the Tower of London.
The travelling party was made up of:
W Bro “Ogre” Hamilton – Army
Bro Mick Berrill – Army
Bro Shaun Davis – Army
Bro Mark “Cocker” Wilcockson – Royal Navy
Bro Bill Callister – Royal Marines
After travelling to London by train, with suitable refreshments enjoyed along the way, the group booked into a hotel close to the Tower before heading out to explore the local area in search of food, fellowship, and further refreshment.
Following a short break to change, the party made its way to the Tower. On arrival, the back gate was found to be closed and, not wishing to march the full perimeter of the fortress to reach the main entrance, the group put their best diplomatic skills to use and managed to persuade the security team to allow them entry.
The evening was hosted by W Bro “Basher” Briggs, a Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London (better known to many as a “Beefeater”) and a retired Royal Navy sailor who had previously served with Bro Mark Wilcockson.
The Tower of London is one of the most famous historic sites in the country. It has served as a fortress, royal palace, and prison, and today is a World Heritage Site, home to the Crown Jewels, the Yeoman Warders, and the famous ravens. Yeoman Warders have guarded the Tower since Tudor times and today combine their ceremonial role with giving tours and acting as the public face of this remarkable historic site.
W Bro Basher gave the group a fascinating private tour, bringing the history of the Tower to life with stories from across its long and colourful past. From its origins as a royal fortress to its later role as a prison and place of ceremony, the Tower provided a fitting setting for a visit by brethren with service backgrounds of their own.
Following the tour, the group retired to the Tower Bar for refreshments, where they presented the Yeoman Warders with a bottle of Plymouth Building Fund Gin as a gesture of thanks.
As darkness fell, the party had the privilege of witnessing the historic Ceremony of the Keys, the traditional locking-up of the Tower. This ancient ceremony has taken place every night for at least 700 years and remains one of the Tower’s most atmospheric traditions.
After the ceremony, it was back to the bar for a raffle and further refreshments. As midnight arrived, the evening came to a natural close and the party was politely encouraged to make its way back into London.
The following morning began with a hearty breakfast at a local café before the group tackled the London Underground. After a few changes, a little circular navigation, and some good-natured confusion, they eventually found their way back to the main line for the journey home.
Most importantly: no man was left behind.
The visit proved to be a superb mix of history, fellowship, military humour, and Masonic friendship, and will no doubt be remembered fondly by all who attended.
