This historic Ceremony of the Constable's Dues takes place at the Tower of London.
The ‘Dues’ are one of several perks that the Constable of the Tower traditionally enjoyed. Every ship that came upstream to the City had to moor at Tower Wharf to unload a portion of its cargo for the Constable.
Still today, whenever a Royal Naval vessel moors on the Wharf, the Captain must present the Constable with a barrel of wine (the ‘Dues’). This is ceremoniously escorted into the Tower by the Yeoman Warders and presented to the Constable on Tower Green.
Other tariff once extracted from Londoners included any horse, oxen, pigs or sheep that fell off London Bridge!
The Constable's Dues has never become just a symbolic ceremony. Once delivered to the Queen's House the barrel is opened and the wine enjoyed!
Be part of this ancient tradition, which has taken place every night for at least 700 years in the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London.
Daily
Tower of London
Daily from 21.30-22.05
Separate ticket (advance booking required)
Marvel at the guards protecting the Crown Jewels. See the sentries posted outside the Jewel House and The Queen’s House.
Open
Tower of London
Included in palace admission (members go free)
Discover captivating stories of pain and passion, treachery and torture with our Yeoman Warder tours at the Tower of London.
Open
Tower of London
Included in palace admission (members go free)
Shop our products inspired by the almost 1000 years of history at the Tower of London.
From £9.99
Our collection of Yeoman Warder gifts includes beautiful homewares, christmas tree decorations and gifts for children.
From £5.99
The Crown Jewels reside at the Tower of London and are worn by British kings and queens on their coronations and royal occasions. Our magnificent Crown Jewels collection make the perfect souvenir.
From £9.99
