An Evening with Sir Max Hastings: Commemoration and Remembrance
Renowned historian Max Hastings draws on his years of writing about the history of war to make the case for why we should remember.
Throughout Westminster Abbey, there are memorials that commemorate the actions of British and Commonwealth service personnel who represented the nation in battle. These memorials are poignant sites of remembrance that encourage us to reflect on their service and sacrifice.
Surrounded by these memorials, Sir Max Hastings will extoll the importance of remembrance by drawing on the varied experiences of war, people and periods that he has written about over the years. He will highlight how much we can learn from the lives of those who have witnessed conflict first-hand and reflect on why it is so important that their experiences are not forgotten.
There are three types of tickets available for this event:
For £20, join us in the Nave for Sir Max Hasting’s talk between 6:30pm and 7:30pm.
For £50, take advantage of a special opportunity to explore the Abbey after hours. After attending the talk, the Abbey will be open for you to explore at your leisure until 8:30pm.
For £75, after enjoying the lecture with reserved seating, you will have the opportunity to continue the conversation and join Sir Max Hastings at an exclusive drinks reception in the historic Jerusalem Chamber. The drinks reception will last until 8:30pm. You may also choose to visit the Abbey during this time.
This event being held as part of our efforts to fundraise for the King Charles III Sacristy. All the money raised through ticket sales at this event will go towards this project which will transform the way that we welcome visitors to the Abbey.
About Max Hastings
Sir Max Hastings is the author of more than 20 books, including Catastrophe 1914: Europe Goes to War; Inferno: The World at War, 1939–1945; and Winston’s War: Churchill, 1940–1945. He spent his early career as a foreign correspondent for BBC TV and various newspapers, then as editor of Britain’s Evening Standard and Daily Telegraph. Hastings has received numerous awards for both his books and his journalism.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Timings
You are welcome to attend Evensong at 5.00pm before the talk. Doors will open at 6.00pm and the talk will begin at 6.30pm.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted at the Abbey. See our photography policy for more information.
Beyond Victory season
This event is part of the Beyond Victory season. On VE - or Victory in Europe - Day in May 1945, Westminster Abbey hosted thanksgiving services every hour, welcoming an estimated 25,000 people. Join us this May and June as we unpack life beyond victory, with a season of events about rebuilding society and the legacy of conflict.
