Join us for a landmark moment in the life of the Worshipful Company of Coachmakers and Coach Harness Makers as we celebrate 350 years of heritage, fellowship, craftsmanship and service to the crown, the City, and the wider world of mobility.
Granted our Royal Charter by King Charles II, the Coachmakers has stood at the crossroads of innovation and tradition for three and a half centuries — from the golden age of carriage building to the modern frontiers of automotive, aerospace and engineering excellence. Few Livery Companies can claim such a continuous thread of craftsmanship, charity and civic duty across so many eras of British history.
On 1st September 2026, we honour that legacy with an Election Court and celebration dinner worthy of our 350th year, in a night of ceremony, history and fellowship.
This is no ordinary Election Court. This is the Election Court of our 350th anniversary year, held in two of the City’s most atmospheric and storied locations.
St James Garlickhythe
The church where generations of Coachmakers have worshipped, celebrated and given thanks. Its ancient stones have witnessed centuries of City life — and now they will host our anniversary Service of Thanksgiving.
Tallow Chandlers’ Hall
One of the City’s most beautiful and intimate Livery halls, where we will gather for a sparkling reception and a superb three‑course anniversary dinner. A setting perfectly suited to a Company celebrating three and a half centuries of excellence.
You can expect:
- A historic Election Court marking the Company’s 350th year (For Court members only)
- A ceremonial procession through the City’s ancient streets
- A service of thanksgiving in one of London’s most characterful churches
- A sparkling drinks reception in the splendour of Tallow Chandlers’ Hall
- A superb anniversary dinner celebrating our past, present and future
- Fellowship, ceremony and a sense of occasion that only a Livery Company can create.
This is your chance to be part of a once‑in‑a‑generation moment – a celebration of the Coachmakers’ remarkable journey from royal coachbuilders to champions of modern engineering and mobility.
Dress: Black tie
After the Election (For Court members only) join us for an extraordinary night in an extraordinary year. Be part of the 350th anniversary story.
1600 – Court and guests muster at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall.
1630 – Election Court in the historic Court Room For Court members only).
1715 – Court and guests proceed to St James, Garlickhythe.
1725 – Everyone to be seated.
1730 – Installation of the new Master and service of thanksgiving commences.
1830 – Service concludes, after which the Master Coachmaker will lead the Court and guests back to Tallow Chandlers’ Hall.
1845 – Reception at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall (in the Courtyard if weather permits).
1930 – Election Court Dinner commences.
2230 – Carriages.