Summer Banquet 2025

This year’s Summer Banquet was held at Trinity House on Tower Hill on Wednesday 25 June. This was the Gunmakers’ first visit in many years to this splendid and treasure-filled establishment that is home to the Corporation of Trinity House which, although not a Livery Company, shares with us a regulatory function similarly granted by Royal Charter – in its case, by Henry VIII. The original licence to regulate pilotage on the River Thames has expanded for Trinity House to become the general lighthouse authority for England, Wales, Channel Islands and Gibraltar.

The spectacular collection of appropriately maritime themed artefacts and paintings, relating to Trinity House’s history and work, includes the ship’s bell from HMY Britannia donated by the Corporation’s longest-serving Master, the late Duke of Edinburgh.

The evening began with a champagne reception for the ninety-four Liverymen and guests in the Court Room followed, after the ringing of the “Britannia bell”, by dinner in the Library.

The Library – though notable for its lack of books – was air conditioned to the great relief of the attendees on that sultry night. The delicious four-course dinner by The Cook & The Butler was accompanied by fine wines from the Gunmakers’ cellars.

The musical entertainment throughout the evening was provided by The Hendo Washboard Kings. Their jazzy exuberance, coupled with the steamy heat of the evening, transported many of the attendees to the streets of New Orleans!

The Master concluded his rousing speech with the Company toast – to which the assembled throng responded with a cacophonous “Forever!” – before inviting the diners to join him in a stirrup cup. This brought the hugely convivial and enjoyable occasion to a close.

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