Those who follow ‘London Shoes’ will be aware that I don’t usually do the more popular of London’s historic landmarks or tourist attractions. – however, this week was an exception, as it presented an opportunity to visit a globally recognised London landmark/attraction – at just the right time, and for the right reasons.
Along with many other thousands of sight-seers this week, my London Shoes took me down to the Tower of London, for the specific purpose of seeing the “Beyond the Deepening Shadow” commemorative tribute on display in its Moat.
“Beyond the Deepening Shadow” is a powerful symbol of remembrance in tribute to the fallen heroes of WW1 – and consists of 10,000 flames situated in the Moat encircling the Tower.
The Tower’s Moat is of particular significance to this tribute, as it was there that all the soldiers of the London battalions were lined-up and kitted out, before going off to War.
‘Beyond the Deepening Shadow’ runs for 8 nights leading up to and including the Armistice Day Centenary – with the majority of sight-seers viewing this unique tribute from pavement level.
However, I was one of the lucky ones fortunate enough to obtain a ticket that provided a tour of the Moat, led by the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), themselves all ex-servicemen.
This very rare access to the Moat enabled me to walk the perimeter of the Tower, and get right up close to the ‘flames’ and accompanying music – a one-off opportunity, that may never occur again.
The photos I took down in the Moat, do not do the tribute the justice it deserves – but I have posted a few to accompany this piece, and hope you enjoy them.
Brilliant Geoff
Well done. A fitting commemoration
Fantastic Geoff. A very fitting and moving tribute to those that gave so much, so willingly
Thanks for this. I won’t make it but did get to see the poppies. I think the Tower of London is my favourite London site and the best place for such a tribute
Excellent Geoff- as you say a one off
Hi Geoff, I saw the lights at the Tower from the coach going home. Your trip there sounds great. One of my volunteers at the Passage was actually involved in replacting the lights, as part of a team exercise.