Events
The Pilgrims of Great Britain run a variety of events from regular, relaxed ‘drinks and discussion’ to more formal, black-tie dinners for state officials and dignitaries.
Over the decades, we have had an impressive roll call of distinguished guest speakers, including Members of the Royal Family, Heads of State, and other figures of global stature. Over the last 12 months, we have heard from Pilgrims Society members Lord Robertson and Air Chief Marshal Lord Peach KG, together with Lord Sedwill, Sir Jeremy Hunt, AMB Peter Westmacott, AMB Jane Hartley and Admiral Sir Tony Radakin.
Regardless of the format, we pride ourselves in providing good company in a trusted and congenial format.
Recent Dinners
Dinner to welcome the Honorable Warren Stephens at Guildhall
The Pilgrims historically have been the first audience to welcome the US Ambassador on British soil. On 21st November 2025, the Pilgrims hosted a dinner at the Guildhall with an audience of over 400 Pilgrims members and guests.
Recent Drinks and Lectures
Address by Chris Witty: Future pandemics and international cooperation
Professor Chris Whitty is Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for England, the UK government’s Chief Medical Adviser and head of the public health profession.
Sir Harry Britain Memorial Lecture: Dame Karen Pierce DCMG
Karen Pierce was appointed UK Special Envoy to the Western Balkans in February 2025; she was previously the British Ambassador to the USA between March 2020 and February 2025.
Vali Nasr: the changing order in the Middle East
Vali Nasr is the Majid Khadduri Professor of International Affairs and Middle East Studies at Johns Hopkins-SAIS. He previously served as Special Advisor to U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Ambassador Richard Holbrooke.