Lecture and conversation: The roots of democracy in Westminster

Join us to hear Professor George Garnett explore the roots of democracy in Westminster, and the historic relationship between Westminster Abbey and Parliament. In conversation with the Dean of Westminster, Professor Garnett will also reflect on how events in the Abbey, which would inform the development of the UK’s democracy, continue to resonate in today’s public service landscape.

As the UK’s democracy continues to evolve, Westminster Abbey Institute invites you to the place where it began. Join the conversation this Autumn about democracy’s past, present, and future, in our programme of events: The Long Story of Democracy.

About George Garnett

George Garnett is Professor of Medieval History at the University of Oxford. Since 1990 he has been Fellow, Tutor and University Lecturer at St Hugh’s College, and College Lecturer at Lady Margaret Hall. Professor Garnett is a medievalist with interests ranging well into the early modern period. He has published a large study of the impact of the Norman Conquest on notions of kingship, succession, and tenure; a briefer introduction to the Conquest; and several essays on these and related themes. He is a regular contributor to History Today and he is currently completing a history of the Norman Conquest.

About the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle 

David Hoyle is the 39th Dean of Westminster, overseeing the spiritual life of Westminster Abbey and giving leadership to the Abbey community. He was installed as Dean on 16th November 2019. Dr Hoyle studied history and theology in Cambridge, and subsequently did doctoral research on the later stages of the Reformation in England. His ministry took him to a housing estate in Cambridge, to Magdalene College, and to a Vicarage in North London before he became Director of Ministry and Canon Residentiary of Gloucester Cathedral. From 2010 until 2019 David Hoyle was Dean of Bristol. He is a published author with recent books about ministry and doctrine. In 2020 he was awarded an MBE for service to the community whilst Dean of Bristol. He was appointed a Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (KCVO) in the 2024 New Year honours for his role at the Coronation of The King and Queen in May 2023.

Ticketing information 

This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.

Timings 

You are welcome to attend Evensong at 5:00pm before the talk.
Doors will open at 6:10pm and the talk will begin at 6:30pm. 
Following the talk, there will be a drinks reception in the cloisters, during which the Chapter House will be open, until 8:30pm. 

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 this event will be recorded and photographed by Westminster Abbey. If you have any concerns about this, please contact: [email protected]

Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted at the Abbey. See our photography policy for more information.

Westminster Abbey Institute 

Westminster Abbey Institute aims to nurture and revitalise moral and spiritual values in public life and service. It seeks to replenish and sustain public servants of all faiths and none, and to celebrate and animate public service as a force for good. The Institute draws on Westminster Abbey’s resources of spirituality and theological learning, rooted in its daily worshipping life and broader Christian tradition, to convene discussion, nourish reflection and inspire regeneration.