Royal Marine Commandos powered up the River Thames today celebrating their 360th anniversary to participate in the ancient Ceremony of the Constable’s Dues.
Traditionally, all ships going upstream in London had to hand over part of their cargo to the Constable of the Tower of London for the protection provided by the castle’s cannon.
Each year the Royal Navy drop a barrel of port to the Tower of London to maintain the ancient tradition.
The Constable of the Tower would take a portion of any cargo unloaded at Tower Wharf.
Anytime a Royal Navy vessel moors at Tower Wharf they have to deliver a barrel of port which is then drank.
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Here are a group of Royal Marine Commandos heading upstream along the River Thames to the Tower of London
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The elite unit were carrying a barrel of port which was being delivered as part of a traditional ceremony, the Ceremony of the Constable’s Dues
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The Royal Marines carried a barrel of port on an oar over the cobbled streets from the River Thames to the Tower of London
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The Royal Marines were escorted into the ancient fortress by Yeoman Warders in a ceremony that dates back centuries
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The Marines are challenged by a warder carrying a large axe to explain their purpose in front of curious bystanders
Royal Marines deliver consignment of port to Tower of London
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