The United Guilds of the City of London Annual United Service is one of the most colourful and interesting events in the Livery calendar.

General

The Service, which is held in St Paul’s Cathedral is managed by the Fishmongers’ and is open to wives and guests of Liverymen who hold tickets. Only ticket holders will be admitted to the Cathedral and staff check their validity at all entry doors. Tickets are limited to about 22 for the Coachmakers and they are made available to the Clerk some 4 weeks ahead of the event. Applications should be made on the appropriate form when forwarded.

Timing

All ticket holders are required to be seated twenty minutes prior to the start of the service which starts normally at 11.30 and lasts one hour.

Dress

Master, Wardens, Clerks and Beadles are required to wear their badges and gowns. Liverymen will normally wear suits with appropriate dress for Ladies with hats if required. There are no SECURE places for leaving coats and brief cases in the Cathedral.

Public Toilets

Toilets are available in Paternoster Square. Facilities in the Cathedral are limited, but Cathedral staff can be asked for assistance in an emergency.

Car Parking

Parking is not available in the Cathedral precincts. The nearest car park is in Upper Thames Street about 7 minutes walk from St Paul’s, but Chauffeurs can set down passengers outside the forecourt barrier.

Medical The St John’s Ambulance Brigade will provide attendants by the West door and a doctor can usually be found in the Apothecaries row.

Collection

A collection for the City of London Endowment Trust for St Paul’s Cathedral will be made during the Service.

Luncheon Following the Service, Coachmakers have traditionally been invited to take luncheon in the Stationers & Newspaper Makers Hall in Ave Maria Lane. There is usually wine before lunch, followed by a 3 course meal with wine and port. Liverymen will be invited to request luncheon tickets some 2 to 3 weeks prior to the event. Tickets are limited to some 10-14 as other Liveries are invited to attend this luncheon.