We are delighted to announce that, due to popular demand, we are allowed, once again, to invite our members to attend another very special evening and dine within the portals of Windsor Castle. On this occasion we are holding the dinner in conjunction with colleagues from the British Business Alliance.

The Castle itself is synonymous with the British Royal Family and has been here for nearly a thousand years. The original castle was founded by William the Conqueror in the 11^th century and has been home to 40 monarchs. Also, within the grounds of the Castle, is St George’s Chapel, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England, construction beginning in 1475 under the reign of Edward IV. It is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, the senior order of British Chivalry. In was also the location of several Royal weddings and the resting place of the late Queen Elizabeth II. Included in this invitation is the opportunity to attend Evensong in the Chapel at 17.15. To be allowed to seat in the seats of the Order of the Garter and hear the Choir sing is a treat for the ears of musicians.  You can then walk up to the battlements and see down across the town, ready for reception, then to dine within the Vicars’ Hall with a superb meal.

The Vicars’ Hall with its high vaulted ceiling, was built in the year of the battle of Agincourt in 1415 and is also steeped in history. At the Garter Feast held on April 23^rd, 1597 a certain playwright and his Queen met in this room to see a play that was about her father and his six wives.  The Queen was of course Elizabeth the first, the playwright was a certain William Shakespeare and the play was “The Merry Wives of Windsor”.  As it is now 400 years since the first Folio of Shakespeare’s works were published, our visit seems timely and most appropriate. So, travel back in time with us to gain a unique glimpse into times gone past.

The format for the evening is:
17.15 to be seated in the seats of the Order of the Garter for Evensong in St George’s Chapel.  You are advised to arrive by 1650 so as to have plenty of time for security formalities before taking your place.
18.30 Welcome drinks on the Lookout, with superb views of the Castle grounds. {In the event of inclement weather, we will move into the Dean’s Cloister with the permission of the Dean.}
19.30 Dinner in the Vicars’ Hall. We will be treated to a 3-course meal with matching wines.
22.00 Leave the Hall for a tour of St George’s Chapel by one of the Military Knights.

Parking for us has been specially arranged for us on the Parade ground inside the Castle. You will enter via Henry VIII’s gateway and drive onto the parade ground.  This is in front of the main entrance to George’s Chapel.  You will then be given access through the private area of Tudor housing to the Vicar’s Hall.  A part that is not open to the general public.

We are also delighted to say that our speaker for the evening will be Lord Merlin Erroll. Merlin is not only a member of the House of Lords, he is also a Scottish Clan Chief (Hays Clan) as well as being the Honorary Lord High Constable of Scotland (a hereditary title that means he is, in protocol terms, the highest-ranking Scot after the Royal Family).  So, come along and meet Merlin.

Naturally security will be quite extensive, details varying from time to time. You will need to have an approved photo ID with you, and it is vital the name on your booking is the same as on the photo ID. We will contact you to confirm this information, six weeks prior to the event, and for details of your car where relevant. Photos are allowed but not within the Chapel without express permission.

This is a “once in a lifetime” opportunity to dine in a prestigious location, not open to the general public. Early booking is advised.
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Nearest stations:           Windsor and Eton Central or Riverside
Dress:                               Black Tie (or dark lounge suits if more convenient).  Ladies long or short dresses (or formal trousers)
Organiser:                      Roger Ellis, roger.ellis@blackraven.co.uk