The Royal Family’s Most Bizarre London Rituals
Ever wondered why the royals ban shellfish, tell bees about deaths, or keep ravens at the Tower? London’s monarchy is steeped in centuries-old traditions—some are quirky, others downright bizarre. Here are the weirdest royal rituals that still happen in London today.
1. Royal Ravens at the Tower of London
Legend claims that if the ravens ever leave the Tower of London, the Crown and kingdom will collapse.
This superstition dates back to King Charles II in the 17th century. He reportedly insisted on keeping at least six ravens at all times, after being warned by his astronomer that their departure would spell disaster
Today, the Tower still hosts at least six ravens (plus extras just in case). They have dedicated Ravenmasters, an official role, and even hold "oaths"—one of the world’s most regal birdwatching clubs.
2. Swan Upping on the Thames
Every July, a curious procession known as Swan Upping takes to the Thames. Teams row out to round up, weigh, and tag mute swans—Crown property and shared with two livery companies
What once signified royal ownership (and culinary value), now helps track bird populations and champion conservation—complete with scarlet-coated Swan Uppers and ceremonial flair.
3. The Royal Shellfish Ban
Yes, that includes lobster and oysters. Why? Because shellfish carry higher risks of food poisoning—unacceptable for royals with packed public schedules
While other royals have allegedly indulged, the official rule still stands, especially on tour or formal events. So, no fish platters at Buckingham Palace!
4. No Square Sandwiches Allowed
An oddly specific rule: never present the monarch with pointed-edge food, including square sandwiches—considered "plotting to overthrow the Crown"
Instead, you'll find tea trays filled with crustless, round-cut 'jam penny' sandwiches. No corners, no conspiracy.
5. Telling the Bees of Royal News
When a royal event like a death or marriage occurs, the Royal beekeepers must "tell the bees"—a ritual where they knock on each hive and inform the bees of the news
If ignored, the bees are said to fall ill or leave. It’s a reminder of older beliefs linking bees to the spirit world—upholding a centuries-old royal superstition.
6. Taking Parliamentary Hostages
During the State Opening of Parliament, a member of the House of Commons is ceremonially "held hostage" at Buckingham Palace until the monarch returns safely
Far from sinister, it's symbolic—echoing the tense Crown-Parliament power balance of the 17th century.
7. Ceremony of the Keys
This 700-year-old tradition at the Tower of London occurs every night at 21:53. A Yeoman Warder, escorted by guards, locks the gates with a strict “Who goes there?” challenge-reply script
Remarkably, this continuous ritual continued even during WWII—even resuming immediately after an airstrike delay.
8. Swan Marker & Receiver of Wreck
Beyond swans, the monarch technically owns any unmarked whale or dolphin within three nautical miles of the UK shore
The Swan Marker handles swan duties, while the Receiver of Wreck deals with stranded marine life—all centuries-old royal prerogatives still active today.
9. Weighing at Christmas Dinner
A less-known yet odd tradition: Royals are weighed before and after Christmas dinners—gaining weight signaled a satisfying meal
Though politically incorrect now, it was once considered a point of pride—proof the feast was well-enjoyed!
10. The Vigil of the Princes
After Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022, her children—and later children and grandchildren—stood guard around her coffin in Westminster and Edinburgh.
Wearing military uniforms and royal tartans, this was a ceremonial gesture of respect and continuity—blending public mourning with deep personal loyalty.
Why These Traditions Matter
You might wonder: why retain these ancient rituals?
They connect us to history—centuries of monarchy and ceremony.
They show continuity—a reassuring thread in uncertain times.
They add color—London’s royal identity is full of pageantry and mystery.
They define protocol—in London's royal institutions, tradition is the baseline.
Do They Hurt or Offend Anyone?
Nope. While odd to outsiders, these rituals are generally well-understood and respected within the UK.
Not harmful: the shellfish ban, sandwich etiquette, or hostages are harmless formalities.
Superstitious, not extremist: they don't promote hateful or exclusive beliefs.
Symbolic, not literal: no one actually kidnaps MPs or expects ravens to collapse kingdoms.
The modern British monarchy practices these as heritage—they celebrate history without harming people or animals.
Curious to See One?
Ravens: Visit the Tower anytime—the Ravenmaster is on duty daily.
Swan Upping: Attend boat events on the Thames each July.
Ceremony of the Keys: Book a free ticket online—space is limited.
State Opening of Parliament: Watch the royal procession from Whitehall.
Queen’s funeral veneration sites: These are rare, but Westminster still hosts memorial ceremonies.
Final Thoughts
London’s royal rituals might seem bizarre: from sandwich rules to parliamentary hostages and honeyed bees. But each carries centuries of meaning—echoes of power, superstition, and protocol.
They give the monarchy weight and mystery. They give London its royal soul.
So next time you wind through Whitehall, pass the Tower, or sip tea in Buckingham’s shadow, think of the ravens, swans, bees—and tiny secrets shaping British tradition.
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