The United Wards Club of the City of London

CAROLS AND CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
2024-12-03 11:00 - 15:30 UTC | Bakers’ Hall, Harp Lane, London, EC3R 6DP
This year our Carol Service will be held at Saint Olave Hart Street
8 Hart Street, London, EC3R 7NB, England at 11:00 am on Tuesday 3rd December.
50 choristers from City Junior School (our President’s daughter’s school) will be joining for the Carols.
Afterwards luncheon will be served in Bakers’ Hall, Harp Lane, London EC3R 6DP, dress code is Morning coats with black waistcoats for gentlemen [dark lounge suits with tie is acceptable] and day wear and hats for ladies.

St Olave Hart Street is one of the few mediaeval churches to survive the Great Fire of London. It is best known as the burial place of Samuel Pepys and his wife Elizabeth; the famous diaries of Samuel Pepys provide the most vivid first-hand account of the fire of 1666 and subsequent life.
St Olave’s has strong links to several historic London livery companies and other historic associations, most notably The Clothworkers’ Company, The Trinity House, The Environmental Cleaners and The Pepys’ Club. The Victorian author Charles Dickens lived close by and called St Olave’s ‘St Ghastly Grim‘, referring to the gargoyles on the churchyard gate.
St Olave’s has been a place of Christian worship and sanctuary for almost 1000 years.

The church is named after Saint Olave. At the 1014 Battle of London Bridge between the Danish army and the English King Ethelred, known to history as ‘The Unready’; Olav supported the Christian king of England in an attempt to regain his throne from the pagan Danes. In Rouen, Olav encountered the faith of Jesus Christ and was baptised in Rouen, France.

The first church in Hart Street may have been erected around AD 1050, a simple timber structure and in the 13th century, it was rebuilt in stone, and then again in 1450 under the patronage of Richard Cely, a wealthy wool merchant who died in 1482.

Upon returning to Norway, Olaf is known for bringing Christianity there; he was canonised after his death in 1030 and became the patron saint of Norway became known as its “Perpetual King” Our church on Hart Street could well have been built on the site of the battle.

At this festive time of year, this is a splendid occasion for family and friends to enjoy rejoicing and fine food and wine to follow!

Dietary requirements can be catered for (please advise during the booking process). The following Christmas menu has been selected:
Christmas spiced London gin cured fillet of smoked Scottish salmon, lime crème fresh, samphire salad, black olive ciabatta
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Roasted Woodland Farm Norfolk Black Leg Turkey Breast
Cranberry & Pear Sauce Pan Juice Gravy, Chipolatas Wrapped in Smoked Bacon, Roast Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Almonds, Puree of Carrot Swede Parsnip
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The Cook & The Butler world famous traditional Christmas pudding, with Christmas pudding ice cream caramelised oranges and rum sauce
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Fairtrade rich roast coffee
Tregothnan Cornish estate grown tea
Mince pies and brandy butter
The vegetarian option will be:
STARTER
Heritage & Sundried Tomato Salad, Roasted Jerusalem Artichoke, Red Pesto Drizzle
MAIN
Sweet & Sour Mushroom Pie
Due to capacity restrictions attendance at the church service only will not be possible and tickets must be purchased to attend the service and the lunch.

Afternoon Tea and Tour of President's Grade II* listed family home in Ongar
2025-01-18 12:00 - 15:00 | Ongar CM5, Ongar, Essex, CM5, United Kingdom
Join us for an exclusive Afternoon Tea and Tour of the President’s Grade II* listed family home in the picturesque parish of High Ongar, Essex. This unique event offers United Wards Club members a rare glimpse into the rich history and heritage of Ongar’s most distinguished residential property.
Event Highlights:

Guided Tour: Explore the historical marvel of the house, originally built in the late 17th Century attributed to Nicholas Alexander and remodelled in the mid-18th Century. The President’s parents will lead you through the regency-style red brick façade, the private grounds, and the meticulously restored interiors, highlighting its architectural and historical significance.
Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a sparkling afternoon tea in the grandeur of the Queen Anne dining room which has a listed late-18th Century plaster decorated ceiling in Adam style.
Exclusive Insights: Learn directly about the house’s transformation from a nursing home back into a stunning single-family residence by its current owners. Discover the careful and sensitive restorations that have brought the house back to its former glory, including the refurbishment of the Kitchen/Breakfast Room and the addition of new internal structures in the context of its architectural evolution.

Additional Information:

Location: Full address details will be given a few days before the event. Members to make their own travel arrangements. Parking will be available for all attendees on-site.
Accessibility: There is a step to enter the building and a grand staircase to be navigated to view the first floor. Traversing the gardens will be mainly on grass and gravel.
Dietary: The President and his family are all vegetarian so catering will be the same.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to high demand, this event is a rerun of an earlier event in April 2024. It is kindly requested that those who attended the earlier event avoid booking so as to allow other members to enjoy this beautiful home.

Members & friends' reception
2025-02-13 17:30 - 19:00 | Guildhall, Members dining room, 71 Basinghall Street, City of London, London, EC2V 7HH, United Kingdom
The Club will be holding a new members event in Aon’s Client Suite in the Cheesegrater building, 122 Leadenhall Street EC3. The aim is to have a fun evening and encourage member’s friends and contacts to attend and join on the night with the cost of the evening offset as a discount against the first years subscription.
Date & Time: Thursday 13th February 2024, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Aon’s Client Suite, Cheesegrater Building 122 Leadenhall Street, EC3
Event Description: The United Wards Club is excited to announce a special evening aimed at welcoming new members to our vibrant community. Set in the iconic Cheesegrater building, this event offers a fantastic opportunity for members to bring friends and contacts to experience the spirit of the Club and potentially join us on the night.
Event Highlights:

Fun and Networking: Engage with fellow members and guests in a relaxed and informal setting.
Address from Past Sheriff and UWC Member, Andrew Marsden MStJ.
Exclusive Membership Offer: The event fee of £15 will be offset against the first year’s subscription for any new members who join during the evening.

Catering: Complementary drinks red wine, white wine, beer, and soft drinks and a selection of nibbles.
The event will wrap up at 7:00 PM, leaving attendees free to make their own dinner arrangements afterward.
Membership Drive: Members are strongly encouraged to book for a guest or two who might be interested in joining along with themselves.
Pricing: £15 per person. This amount will be deducted from the first year’s membership fee for new joiners.
Join us for an enjoyable evening and help grow the United Wards Club community!

2025 Annual General Meeting
2025-03-17 17:45 - 18:30
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the United Wards Club will be held on Monday 17th March 2025 at 5:45 pm.
Please download the agenda and other papers as below:
Agenda AGM 2025
Minutes of the AGM 22 March.2024 final
The Year end accounts

COMMITTEE ROOMS 3 Unfortunatley due to postal votes for the Common Council elections we are in a single room so our apologies for possible the lack of space.
Access: via the WEST WING, GUILDHALL, GRESHAM STREET, LONDON EC2P 2 EJ
This is for paid up members only, please only select 1 guest and enter your name. Members’ guests should make their way at 7pm via the Basinghall Entrance and not attend the AGM as space is limited.

We are required to give the names of attendees in advance so kindly click on the RSVP below clicking on “Going” and enter your name, or you can offer your apologies by clicking on “Not going”.
Please note that photographs will be taken during the event and some may be added to our archives, online

2025 INSTALLATION DINNER
2025-03-17 18:45 - 23:00 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
The installation dinner will be held, after the AGM, at Guildhall in the splendid Livery Hall to celebrate Chris Edge’s election as our new President. The guest speaker will be the RT Hon Lord (Tariq) Ahmad KMC of Wimbledon. Tariq previously served as Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, Commonwealth and United Nations at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office..
6:45 pm for 7:30 pm on Monday 17th March 2025 following the earlier Annual General Meeting (for which notice has been sent to Members separately).
This is the incoming President’s first event of his year and we are sure that as many Members as possible will want to support Chris Edge and welcome him to office.

*** BOOKINGS NOW OPEN ***

Menu
Billingsgate Porter Pan Fried Fish Cake, Light Curry Sauce with Samphire Sauce
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Whole Roasted Boned Quail Stuffed with Creedy Carver Free Range Chicken Parfait
Rich Maderia Sauce, served with Lyonnaise Potatoes, Cumin Purple Carrot & Green Cabbage
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Peruvian Coffee Crème Brulee, White Chocolate Ice Cream, Crème Anglaise
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Please make sure you put any dietary requirements on each individual’s booking entry.
A seperate pour memoire will be sent by email to each attendees email address a few days prior to the event.
Photographs will be taken during the event and some may be added to our archives, online, please let the photographer know if you object to having your photo taken.

Private Tour of Westminster Abbey and optional supper
2025-04-04 17:00 - 2025-05-05 21:30 | Westminster Abbey, 20 Deans Yard, London, SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom
We have the opportunty to visit this “Royal Peculiar”, the church used for coronations since 1066.
The evening starts with us attending the Evensong which starts at 5pm, then remian around after the service for Chris & Corinna Edge to greet you and meet the guide.
Don’t worry if you are not a Christian, you are still welcome to attend, just make sure you show due respect by, for example not wearing a hat if you are a gentleman, and stand or sit when everyone else does. It will give you an insight into the regular Abbey services.

After Evensong we will have a private tour of Westminster Abbey, led by The Right Reverend Anthony Ball, Canon of Westminster, thanks to the President’s wife who used to work at the Abbey.
After the tour we will go to a local modestly priced Italian restaurant for supper, which is on a pay as you eat arrangement.

*** Due to limited spaces the tour is limited limited to members and 1 of their guests only ***

However you can attend the Evensong and join us for supper afterwards at Colosseo, 79 Victoria Street, London SW1H 0HW, which is booked for circa 19:30
Getting there:

By tube: Jubilee, Circle, Elizabeth, Bakerloo, and District lines
Nearest stations: St. James’s Park and Westminster (both a five-minute walk away)

By train: Chiltern Railways and South Western Railway
Nearest stations: Waterloo (16-minute walk away) and Victoria (18-minute walk away)

By bus: Routes 11, 24, 88, 148, 211, 381
Nearest stops: Westminster Abbey or Parliament Square (both one-minute walk away)

Tour of Freemasons' Hall
2025-05-09 18:00 | Côte Brasserie, Covent Garden, 17 Tavistock Street, London, WC2E 7DA
*** Bookings open ***
Tour of Freemasons’ Hall, 60 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5AZ, including the museum starting at 6pm so need to arrive shortly beforehand.
Freemasons’ Hall stands on a site that has been used to hold meetings for Freemasons since 1775. Completed in 1933 as a memorial to the thousands of Freemasons who died in the First World War, Freemasons’ Hall is recognised as one of the finest Art Deco buildings in England.
The Curator has agreed to let us see the two splendid silver gilt loving cups which were originally the property of the now defunct United Wards’ Lodge which are now in the Masonic museum. When the lodge closed in 2001 the ownership of the cups was transferred to the Club and it would be good to see them. The Curator will do short ‘show and tell’ with the cups and a few other City related items including things made from buildings lost or damaged in the Blitz.
After the tour we will go for supper for around 8pm at the Côte Brasserie restaurant at 17 Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7DA.
We have asked for a private area and their fixed price menu which with wine and service would cost around £40.00 per person.
if you wish to join the supper please select the second ticket and prepay, we will email closer to the time asking for your menu preferences, but the menu will be added shortly.
Some background before you visit:
Freemasonry is a blueprint for living to your full potential.
Currently, it has over 6 million members worldwide who share the belief in the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of mankind.
When it comes to secret societies, Freemasonry emerges in mind.
However, according to Margaret Jacob, the UCLA history professor, this common belief isn’t correct. It is indeed not a religion either.
As part of the President’s theme on religious tollerance this visit will hopfully highlight the bringing together of people from different religions, Christian, Jews, Muslim, Hindu, Sikhs for example in the Indian sub continent during the British Raj period.
Freemasonry is all about uniting men of good character, even if they are from different ethnic or social backgrounds.
Though no one exactly knows when Freemasonry was formed, a widely accepted belief is it started during the middle ages, particularly from the cathedral building.
However, with the decline of cathedral buildings, they started to accept honorary members in their circles to bolster their presence.
Before we reveal the beliefs of Freemasons, first it is pertinent to comprehend a few things:

There isn’t any controlling authority over Freemasonry.
It has local organisations, known as lodges.
All lodges follow the same principles, but their activities can be different.
It has three major degrees – Entered Apprentice, Fellow of The Craft, and Master Mason.
It also has groups that are social and recreational in character.
The Illuminati are completely unrelated to Freemasonry.
Masonic brothers support one another on a grand scale.

It is imperative to perceive all these key things in order to understand the beliefs of Freemasons since most people think this organization compels you to change your faith, family, or occupation… This isn’t the case at all.
Freemasonry, in fact, reminds you of yourself, your family, and your community.
In a way, it makes you care for each other and your communities, and it also keeps your faith in the Supreme Architect.
For that reason, Atheists and Agnostics aren’t welcome in this society. It is not a religion, therefore it doesn’t have any so-called ‘Core Beliefs’.
Freemasonry is a ‘Fraternity’, in which a group of people shares a common interest. You have a friendship and mutual support within a group. For that reason, it won’t be correct to say ‘Beliefs’.
Instead, it is better to say, it has three principles :
Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.
In order to join the fraternity, one must believe in the existence of a Supreme Being.
This simply means that one must believe there is something beyond this material world, whether it be God or an unknown force. One must believe there is a hidden answer to existence.
This means that no matter which religion one follows one can still become a Freemason since all religions are based on the assumption that there is something greater than us, the Grand Architect of it all.
People who do not actually follow any religion can still join Freemasonry if they believe there is an omnipresent entity, which Freemasons call the Great Architect of the Universe.
Even if one is not sure what they believe this supreme presence is they can still become Freemasons, so following a religion is not necessary.
Women Freemasons
Women Freemasons have been meeting across the country for more than 100 years.
There are two female-only Grand Lodges: The Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons (Freemasonry for Women). They both follow exactly the same ceremonies and wear the same regalia as male Freemasons, and they often work closely with community and charity projects.
The United Grand Lodge of England has an excellent working relationship with both Grand Lodges. Members from the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons (Freemasonry for Women) and The Order of Women Freemasons have both taken part in Open House London at Freemasons’ Hall in recent years in order to showcase female Freemasonry, as well as taking part in joint Freshers’ Fairs up and down the country as part of the Universities Scheme.

Civic Luncheon
2025-06-05 12:00 - 16:00 | The Crypt, Ely Place, London, EC1N 6RY, United Kingdom
The United Wards Club of the City of London is delighted to invite members and friends to attend this years Civic Luncheon to entertain

Our Patron the Rt Hon the Lord Mayor of the City of London Alastair King
Alderman & Sheriff Gregory Jones KC
Sheriff David Chalk

This year we will be hosting the Lord Mayor at The Crypt of St Etheldreda’s, a magical medieval Crypt in Ely Place (EC1N).
One of London’s hidden gems, St Etheldreda’s is a truly beautiful and historic building and the oldest Roman Catholic Church in England.
With its History of Celebration and Celebration of History, the 600 year–old Grade1 listed Crypt at St Etheldreda’s has been hosting celebrity parties in the heart of London ever since King Henry V111 held his three-day wedding feast there in 1531.
Today The Crypt offers the same superb standards of excellent hospitality which United Wards Club members will have the opportunity to experience at this year’s Civic Luncheon with catering done by the Bleeding Heart.
Accessibility Statement: Ramp access provided
* Bookings are now open *
MENU.
The President has decided on the menu below:
Starter
Plum tomato, red onion & crumbled feta tart tatin with toasted pine nuts & sherry dressing
Holdaway Vineyard Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Blank Canvas, New Zealand, 2023
*****
Main
Confit lamb rump with baked ratatouille, fondant potato & rosemary jus
Trinity Pinot Noir, Trinity Hill, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, 2022
*****
Classic Crème Brulee (vegetarian) ,sable Breton
*****
Coffee, petit fours and Port to finish

City Walk & Supper
2025-06-25 17:30 - 21:00 | Tower Hill Station, Tower Hill, London, EC3N 4DJ
* Bookings open *
Is it a book? Is it a film? Is it a song?
A guided walk that will take place on Wednesday 25 June and explore some of the City of London’s many literary and big screen connections, as well as featuring a number of the City’s magnificent churches in keeping with the President’s theme of religious tolerance.
City Walk
Starting at 17:30, the walk will be led by Stephen Willis, Junior Vice President of the United Wards Club, who is a qualified City of London guide and has led a number of memorable walks for the Club in the past. The theme of this walk will make it suitable both for those who know the City well and also for those who want to find out more about the remarkable Square Mile.
Optional Supper (Additional ticket)
After the walk (which starts at Tower Hill Station and finishes at the Bank of England / Royal Exchange / Mansion House), we have a private room booked for supper from 19:30 at The Old Doctor Butlers Head Pub close to Guildhall for those who wish to join us.
The price for this will be £37.50 (payable in advance) for a three course set menu meal which will include a glass of wine or soft drink. (Additional drinks can then be purchased on the evening if you wish to do so).
For attendees who wish to join the supper: Please book this by 16 June 2025 – This will allow us enough time to contact you with regards to the menu options, as the The Old Doctor Butlers Head Pub need our pre-orders by 20 June 2025 in order to cater for any dietary requirements anyone might have.

Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Sunday Lunch on the Thames.
2025-07-20 12:00 - 15:30
Murder on the Thames – Sunday lunch and a bit of mystery
An interactive period costume light-hearted Sherlock Holmes murder mystery with a 3-course meal* on one of the finest boats on the river, which will pass along one of the most beautiful stretches of the Thames.
* Please advise if you have any dietary requirements
The departure point along Maidenhead Promenade is around 1 mile (not km) from the main railway station so not advised for a walk but a 5 minute taxi ride away.
There is no address as such since it is just a section of the River Thames so best to say that the boat departs opposite Riverside Gardens (where chargeable parking is available) in Riverside Gardens, Ray Mead Road, Maidenhead, SL6 8NP)

Tour of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, followed by a BBQ at the President's home
2025-08-02 11:30 - 18:00 | All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), Gate 4, Church Road, Wimbledon, SW19 5AG
Everyone has heard of Wimbledon
Now you have an opportunty to attend a tour of the world famous venue, AELTC, on Saturday 2nd August, including the museum. Beware of the Wimbledon shop!
Afterwards you are invited to join the President and his Consort, Corinna, at their small home for a BBQ, or you can just attend the BBQ and skip the tour.
Parking is no longer available at AELTC, therefore we suggest travelling to the AELTC by public transport:

from Southfields district line station and a 20 minute walk
from Wimbledon mainline station then catch a 493 bus or taxi

Everyone can return on the 493 bus or taxi to the BBQ.
Not sure if children can go on the AELTC tour, but they are most welcome at the President’s home. Please ask the President and give the age of your children.

Inter Ward Club Quiz Night
2025-09-12 18:00 - 22:00 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
Come along and join the United Wards Club at the 2025 Inter Ward Club Quiz Night.
Test your general knowledge as you compete with the greatest minds in the City, and be in with a chance of being crowned the 2025 Quiz Night winners!
Sign up today if you are interested in putting a team together for this event so that we can gage the level of interest – Further details will then be confirmed by the event organisers nearer the time –

Venue: Livery Hall, Guildhall
Timings: Welcome drinks from 18:00, Quiz from 19:00, Sandwiches / Wraps and Desserts served from approx. 20:00
Max team size: 6 people (And the good news is that we are not limited in the number of UWC Teams that can enter – Just the number of people who can make up a team)
Ticket price: £40 per person

Club Holiday 2025 - Madeira
2025-09-15 - 2025-09-22 | Royal Savoy Resort, Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
“Call for expressions of interest”
Club holiday to Madeira
15th to 22nd September 2025
Known for its namesake wine and warm, subtropical climate, Madeira is a floating garden island off the northwest coast of Africa.
Volcanic, green, and rugged, with high cliffs and pebbly beaches, Mother Nature has blessed this island with true natural beauty. Exotic flowers and fruits grow side by side. Along the seacoast, colours change from light blue to pale green and, eventually, white as the waves crash against the cliffs. Along the roadways that wind their way through the villages, the Levadas (traditional water irrigation channels) appear as ribbons of silver meandering through the countryside sparkling in the bright sunlight that bathes the island.
Corinna and I have visited the island for over 20 years, and have a Time Share at the 5* Royal Savoy in Funchal, which will be our home for the week:
https://royal.vacationclubsavoysignature.com/
A Studio Apartment there is en suite, with the bedroom separated from the kitchenette, sitting and dining areas. The balcony looks out to the sea and the two outside pools. The usual price for a week’s accommodation in these apartments for two people is £2,800. However, the good news is that Corinna and I have accumulated 10 ‘floating weeks’ which we propose to offer UWC members for £750 per couple for the week, which includes a £100 contribution to the UWC.
In addition, a nice breakfast is available at Euro 24 per person per day… but frankly, we tend to buy our own tea/coffee, milk, bread, butter, eggs, and cereal from a nearby local shop, and make our own breakfast in our room.
We will arrange flights on British Airways from Gatwick [they will no longer be flying from Heathrow after this October] either booking directly through BA or via a travel agency – likely to be around £650 per person; we have just learnt that Easy Jet flights, also from Gatwick could be bought for circa £450.
Chris Edge sent out a questionnaire earlier to find out what members might be interested in – tours around the lovely island, Lavada walks, wine and Madeira tastings, dolphin [and possibly whale] watching…oh and nice food! A draft programme is now available here.
In sum, for an amazing week on Madeira in a 5* Hotel, we anticipate the total indicative cost being of the order of £3,000 per couple, [excluding flights and the resort room] all lunches and dinners [except breakfast], but obviously subject to what we agree to do on the island.
Would you please email me on chris.edge@ccedge.com to express your interest or click on the RSVP below.
Chris Edge
Senior Vice President

Members & friends’ reception
2025-09-26 17:30 - 19:30 | Guildhall, Members dining room, 71 Basinghall Street, City of London, London, EC2V 7HH, United Kingdom
The Club will be holding a new members event from 17:30 on the evening of 26 September 2025 in the Members Room of the City’s iconic Guildhall. The aim is to have a fun evening and encourage member’s friends and contacts to attend and join on the night with the cost of the evening offset as a discount against the first years subscription.
Date & Time: Friday 26 September 2025, 5:30 PM – 7:30PM
Event Description: The United Wards Club is excited to announce a special evening aimed at welcoming new members to our vibrant community. This event offers a fantastic opportunity for members to bring friends and contacts to experience the spirit of the Club and potentially join us on the night.
Event Highlights:

Fun and Networking: Engage with fellow members and guests in a relaxed and informal setting.
Address from senior City member

Exclusive Membership Offer: The event fee of £15 will be offset against the first year’s subscription for any new members who join during the evening.

Catering: Complementary drinks red wine, white wine, beer, and soft drinks and a selection of nibbles.
The event will wrap up at 7:00 PM, leaving attendees free to make their own dinner arrangements afterward.
Membership Drive: Members are strongly encouraged to book for a guest or two who might be interested in joining along with themselves.
Pricing: £15 per person. This amount will be deducted from the first year’s membership fee for new joiners.
Join us for an enjoyable evening and help grow the United Wards Club community!

City Walk (Smithfield to St Paul’s), followed by lunch
2025-10-08 11:00 - 15:00
Wednesday 8th October: 11am City Walk (Smithfield to St Paul’s), followed by lunch
Flames of Faith: dark tales of Smithfield and St Paul’s
A guided walk late morning on Wednesday 8 October in the NorthWest corner of the City of London, where some of the darkest and most dramatic episodes in its history have taken place. Join us to uncover the hidden stories of Smithfield (once a site of execution and now home to some of London’s most historic buildings and institutions) on the way to St Paul’s. Starting at Barbican Station, the route will pass notable monuments, memorials, churches and livery halls and will provide another opportunity to explore the President’s theme of religious tolerance – although that was far from the minds of our ancestors!
City Walk
Starting at 11:00, the walk will be led by Stephen Willis, Junior Vice President of the United Wards Club, who is a qualified City of London guide and has led a number of memorable walks for the Club in the past, including one in June exploring the City’s cultural links. The theme of this walk will make it suitable both for those who know the City well and also for those who want to find out more about the remarkable Square Mile.
Optional Lunch (additional ticket)
Afterwards lunch will be available in Blackfriars, where UWC was founded in 1877, for those who wish to join us.

Founders Day Dinner
2025-10-31 18:45 - 22:30 | Butchers Hall, 87 Bartholomew Close,, London, EC1A 7EB, United Kingdom
Our annual dinner to remember our Founders on 31st October 1877, will, this year, be held in Butchers Hall, 87 Bartholomew Close, London EC1A 7EB
The Worshipful Company of Butchers, has had more than its fair share of ill fortune, with five of their seven Halls burned down, including one that perished during the Great Fire of London in 1666. Their current Hall was originally opened by the Bishop of London in 1960. It underwent a major multi-million pound refurbishment, reopening in September 2019. It retains many of its features, finely balancing the traditions of a Livery Hall with first-class, modern facilities.
Please book by 21 October 2025
Dress Code: Black tie
We are honoured to have Sir David Wootton, past Lord Mayor in the City of London, as our guest speaker.
Also in attendance will be the:

Chairman of the Royal Society of St George, Andrew Marsden
President of the City Livery Club Alderman Professor Emma Edhem
Master of the City of London Guild of Freemen Adrian Waddingham, CBE FIA

Dress Code: Black tie

Lord Mayor’s Show
2025-11-08 10:00 - 15:00
The United Wards Club has again been invited to take part in this year’s Lord Mayor’s Show, along with Rotary in London, which is sponsoring the entry. United Ward Club members will be wearing tabards with our logo.

The float will be highlighting Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland’s “Purple4Polio” Campaign and will be joined a 100-year-old steam traction engine. We will be joined this year by a Pearly King and Queen along with Chelsea pensioner Philip Carr.

If you do not wish to take part, you can watch the parade at the roadside. You can also get a hot buffet lunch which will be served between 12.45pm and 2.30pm at Ironmongers Hall

If you wish to take part in the Lord Mayors Show

22.10.2025 update: Our allocation of spaces to take part in the Lord Mayors Show is now full.

For those who have signed up, Mike Wren will be in touch with you directly regarding your position in the parade.

If you do not wish to take part but would like to watch the proceedings

If you do not wish to take part, you can watch the parade at the roadside. You can also get a hot buffet lunch which will be served between 12.45pm and 2.30pm at Ironmongers Hall, the Ironmongers’ Company, Shaftesbury Place, off Aldersgate Street, Barbican, London EC2Y 8AA

Lunch will cost £39.00 per adult and tea and coffee is included with the meal. There will also be a bar serving beer, wine and soft drinks on a pay as you go basis.

Please book using the ticket below by 27th October (This is a deadline set by the Hall so that we can confirm our numbers).

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THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW

The Lord Mayor’s Show is an ancient statement of the indomitable spirit of London and a modern celebration of her vigour and diversity.

The Show dates back to the early 13th century, when a desperate King John allowed the City of London to appoint its own Mayor. The King insisted that each newly-elected Mayor should come to Westminster and swear loyalty to the Crown, and the Mayor of London has been making that journey for over 800 years. Around him (and her) grew up the noisy, colourful, joyous procession that over the centuries became known as the Lord Mayor’s Show.

THE LORD MAYOR

The 698th Lord Mayor of London, is Alderman, Dame Susan Langley DBE

GETTING HERE

Sorry: cars and buses are no help on Show day. Tubes, boats and bicycles are much better, the new Elizabeth Line station at Farringdon is ideally placed and there are many nice ways to walk into the City when it is free of traffic.

WHERE TO GO

Some suggestions for different ways to watch the Show depending on how much you like a crowd and what else you might like to do that day.

HISTORY OF THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW

The Mayor of London is an ancient office originally created by King John in a doomed attempt to get the city on his side.

It was 1215, and John’s disastrous reign was falling apart. His armies were retreating in France, his treasury was empty and his Barons were on the edge of open revolt. Soon they would force him to sign the Magna Carta, which would be largely ignored until civil war finally broke out. John died of dysentery a year later while marching his dwindling armies from one besieged city to another.

London was right in the middle of the growing conflict. It was a cosmopolitan, international place even then: rich but vulnerable, easy to take but hard to govern. The King’s taxes were high and the City was frequently held hostage by one or other group of warring Barons. The whole situation was very bad for business.

The King’s Charter for London of May 9th 1215, now in the London Metropolitan Archive

For years London had been trying to become a ‘commune’: a sort of early city state that would be able to declare its borders, make treaties and defend itself. King Richard had been an ally and King John may have thought it a smart move to go along with this. In 1215 he issued a Royal Charter that established the commune and allowed the City to choose its own Mayor every year instead of having a sheriff appointed by the King.

Know ye that we have granted … to our barons of our city of London, that they may choose to themselves every year a mayor, who to us may be faithful, discreet and fit for government of the city, so as, when he shall be chosen, to be presented unto us, or our Justice if we shall not be present… and he shall swear to be faithful to us…

At the end there you can see a careful condition: every year the newly elected Mayor must leave the safety of the City, travel upriver to Westminster and swear loyalty to the King.

London in around 1300: a walled town separated by open country from distant Westminster, where the King had his base.

In fact the loyalty of 13th century London was quite flexible and its gratitude brief. The city became a base for the rebellious barons. When they tried to get out of trouble later that year by offering the English crown to Prince Louis of France, Londoners are said to have lined the streets to welcome the invading French army.*

Later that year the King was brought to heel and the Magna Carta was signed. It was never meant to be a constitutional milestone, but just another attempt to make peace. John never put his name to it, since he could not read or write, but among its 25 signatories we can see the second elected Mayor of London, William Hardel. He probably gave us this part:

13: The city of London shall enjoy all its ancient liberties and free customs, both by land and by water. We also will and grant that all other cities, boroughs, towns, and ports shall enjoy all their liberties and free customs.

The Mayor became known as the “Lord Mayor” about 200 years later but it has been an elected office ever since it was created, and for the next few centuries Lord Mayor of London was by far the grandest position to which a commoner could aspire. The Lord Mayor’s Journey was the celebrity spectacle of its day and over the centuries it grew so splendid and so popular that it became known everywhere as the Lord Mayor’s Show.

The Show features in the plays of Shakespeare, the diaries of Pepys and the adventures of James Bond and of course in the pantomime story of Dick Whittington, who really was Mayor of London in three separate years. In the 20th century the Lord Mayor’s Show was the first outside event ever to be broadcast live and it still attracts a TV audience of millions.

The modern Lord Mayor’s procession is a direct descendant of that first journey to Westminster. The route and date have changed over the years but the pageantry of Hogarth and Canaletto can still be seen in its lively mixture of London’s past, present and future.

The State Coach is over 250 years old, and the pikemen who guard it are almost as old as the Show. Today you will see the City’s businesses, Livery Companies, charities, Her Majesty’s Forces, the City Police and Londoners from all walks of life come together to enjoy a splendid celebration of the City’s ancient power and prosperity, just as they did in the middle ages.

* It’s worth mentioning that England was essentially a Norman colony at the time. The real Angevin capital was in Anjou and the war was between the northern and southern Kings of France. John did very badly, lost almost all of his French kingdom and ended up, briefly, something much more like the King of England. This and the concessions that he made on the way, turned out to be some of the most important building blocks of Britain (and London).

Visit to Bevis Marks Synagogue followed by an optional supper afterwards
2025-11-11 18:00 - 19:30 | Bevis Marks Synagogue, between Houndsditch and Leadenhall Streets, London, EC3A 7LH
The Grade I listed Bevis Marks Synagogue, on the borders of the City and the Borough of Tower Hamlets in London, is the Cathedral Synagogue of the Spanish and Portuguese Sephardic Jews. Finished in 1701 it was the first synagogue to be built following the re-settlement of Jews in England in the second half of the 17th Century.
It is the oldest synagogue still in use in the United Kingdom and has witnessed the daily worship, festivals, the celebration of births, marriages and funerals of generations of Sephardic Jews; it has survived the threat of demolition, the shock waves of Luftwaffe and IRA bombs and the upheaval of mass construction, to stand as a symbol of resilience and tradition in a changing world.
The Bevis Marks Synagogue collection contains a thousand beautiful, ornate works of art and craftsmanship, including Torah scrolls, ritual silver items, vestments, books and furniture. It is the oldest and most complete collection of any Jewish establishment in the UK and one of the most complete in Europe.

We are very pleased that Sir Michael and Lady Barbara Bear ill be joining us. Sir Michael was the 10th Jewish Lord Mayor in 1000 or so years.
Afterwards we will go for a Turkish mealround the corner for a fixed price menu, including a glass of wine, beer or soft drink, as follows:
C H O I C E O F C O L D S TA R T E R S
HUMMUS S-VG
Puréed chickpeas w/ tahini, lemon juice, garlic and oil dressing.
TABBOULEH VG-G
Crushed wheat w/ chopped tomatoes, onion, mint and parsley salad.
PATLICAN SOSLU VG
Cooked and chopped aubergine, peppers, tomatoes and garlic.
FALAFEL VG-S
Broad beans, chickpeas and vegetable fritters served w/ hummus.
C H O I C E O F M A I N C O U R S E S
LAMB GUVECH D-DFO
Diced lamb cooked w/ tomatoes, onions, mushrooms and peppers, served w/ rice.
SPICY CHICKEN KOFTE G-D-DFO
Seasoned and grilled spicy minced chicken patties, served w/ bulgur, salad and garlic sauce.
ADANA KOFTE D-DFO-G
Marinated fine cuts of minced lamb, mixed w/ fresh herbs and grilled
on skewer, slightly spicy, served w/ bulgur and salad.
VEGGIE OR MEAT MOUSSAKA D-G
Baked layers of aubergine, potatoes, onions, carrots, peppers and minced
lamb, topped w/ béchamel sauce and cheese, served w/ rice.
INCIK (LAMB SHANK) D
Lamb shank slow cooked in the oven w/ rich tomato sauce and vegetables,
served w/ mashed potato.
CHICKEN ON SKEWER D
Marinated cubes of chicken grilled on skewer, served w/ rice and salad.
HALLOUMI KEBAB V-D
Grilled halloumi cheese skewered w/ onions and peppers, served w/ salad and rice.
Fixed menu incudes one drink, glass of wine, beer or soft drink. Other drinks at your own cost.

Carol Service followed by Christmas Lunch
2025-12-03 11:15 - 16:00 | St Margaret Lothbury, Lothbury, London, EC2R 7HH
*** Bookings now open ***
This year our Carol Service will be back at St Margaret’s Lothbury, at 11:15 am on Wednesday 3rd December.

Afterwards luncheon will be served in Grocerss’ Hall, dress code is Morning coats with black waistcoats preferably United Ward Club’ tie for gentlemen [dark lounge suit acceptable] and day wear and hats for ladies.

Tour of Regent Park Mosque & optional lunch
2026-01-07 12:00 - 13:30 | Regents Park Mosque, London Central Mosque & Islamic Cultural Centre, 146 Park Road, London, NW8 7RG
As part of the President’s theme of religious tollerance we have arranged for the last of our religious visits. This one is to Regents Park Mosque, or more formally called the London Central Mosque & Islamic Cultural Centre, 146 Park Road, London, NW8 7RG at 12:00 noon on Wednesday 7th Janaury 2026
There is a cafeteria on site, but depending on the numbers we may opt for lunch at the Pizza Express diagonally opposite from Baker Street Tube. Payment will be pay your own on the day if you wish to join. We will email everyone nearer the date to see whihc option everyone prefers.
Please, be advised:

Be aware of the strict modest dress code for adults, as we will be visiting the main prayer hall.
Skirts, tights, leggings, tight trousers, ripped jeans, shorts; do not comply.
A head scarf is required for the females (few scarves might be provided upon Arrival, if requested).
The dress code does not apply to children of the primary schools’ age; however, tights would be appreciated.
When you arrive, please, notify the security/enquiries office at the main gate entrance driveway. They will call us to come and greet you.

City of London Ward Clubs' Members reception
2026-02-03 17:00 - 19:00 | Aon, Cheesegrater building, 122 Leadenhall Street, London, EC3V 4AN, United Kingdom
The Club will be holding a reception in Aon’s Client Suite in the Cheesegrater building, 122 Leadenhall Street EC3V 4AN. The aim is to have a fun evening and encourage members’ of ALL City of London Ward Clubs to mix.
Date & Time: Tuesday 3rd February 2026, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Aon’s Client Suite, Cheesegrater Building, 122 Leadenhall Street, EC3V 4AN
Event Description: The United Wards Club is excited to announce a special evening aimed at welcoming members’ of ALL the City of London Ward Clubs’ to our vibrant community. Set in the iconic Cheesegrater building, this event offers a fantastic opportunity for members to bring friends and contacts to experience the spirit of the Club and potentially join us on the night.
Event Highlights:

Fun and Networking: Engage with fellow members of all the City of London Ward Clubs in a relaxed and informal setting.
Address from a senior City member

Catering: Complementary drinks red wine, white wine, beer, and soft drinks and a selection of nibbles.
The event will wrap up at 7:00 PM, leaving attendees free to make their own dinner arrangements afterward.

2026 AGM & Installation Dinner
2026-03-16 17:00 - 22:30 | Guildhall, Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7HH
*** Bookings not yet open ***

The installation dinner will be held, after the AGM, at Guildhall in the splendid Livery Hall to celebrate Mary Hardy’s election as our new President.

6:45 pm for 7:30 pm on Monday 16th March 2026 following the earlier Annual General Meeting (for which notice has been sent to Members separately).
This is the incoming President’s first event of her year and we are sure that as many Members as possible will want to support Mary Hardy and welcome her to office.
