This year’s London Reception will take place on Tuesday 5 May from 6.00 till 9.30pm. By kind permission of the Dean & Chapter of Westminster, we will be in the Cloisters of the world-renowned Westminster Abbey (map)!
Famous as the site of coronations of the British (formerly English) monarchy since William the Conqueror in 1066, and long established as a traditional site for royal weddings and state funerals, Westminster Abbey is one of the most significant buildings in the history of the United Kingdom. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Abbey also has a unique connection to Queen’s: the College’s namesake, Queen Philippa of Hainault, wife of King Edward III, is buried there. The College’s founder, Robert de Eglesfield, served as a chaplain in her household.
Special thanks to Old Member Dr Matthew Payne (Literae Humaniores, 1989), Keeper of the Muniments at Westminster Abbey, for helping us secure this venue.
Booking will open in the first week of March.
Places are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Please note that this event is for Old Members only.
Programme
17:00 Evensong (optional) – please arrive by 4.30pm
18:00 Doors open to Reception via Dean’s Yard entrance (map)
19:00 Welcome:
Paul Johnson, Provost.
Dr Matthew Payne, Keeper of the Muniments, Westminster Abbey and Queen’s Old Member.
19:20 Further drinks and bowl food service.
21:30 Close
Please note:
The Queen’s London Reception will take place in the Cloisters of the Abbey.
If you want to visit and experience the main Abbey, you have the opportunity to attend Evensong beforehand, starting at 5pm. Please indicate your wish to do so at the time of booking (no charge) to secure a seat. If you would like to attend Evensong, you must arrive before 4:30pm at the Great West Door to be seated; a later arrival will result in experiencing the service on the wrong side of the Quire screen.
