Lunchtime talk: Remembering the Battle of Britain
This Armistice Day, hear how the events of the Battle of Britain have been remembered at Westminster Abbey.
Dr Harry Raffal of the Royal Air Force Museum will reflect on the ways in which the events of the Battle of Britain have been recounted and commemorated over the last 85 years.
About the Lunchtime Talk Series
Held on the second Wednesday of every month at St Margaret’s Church, our Lunchtime Talk series invites visitors to explore different aspects of Westminster Abbey’s rich history. Each talk features expert speakers and unique perspectives, perfect for anyone interested in art, architecture, and heritage.
About Harry Raffal
Harry Raffal is the Head of Collections and Research at the Royal Air Force Museum. He holds a doctorate from the University of Hull for his thesis on the operations of the RAF and Luftwaffe during the evacuation of Dunkirk. He is a Committee member of the British Commission for Military History, Vice-Chair of the Royal Aeronautical Society, Aeronautical Heritage Group, and a Trustee of the RAF Historical Society. He has previously published research on the RAF in the Battle of France, the Malayan campaign, the Third Afghan War, and the online development of the Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces. He is the author of Air Power and the Evacuation of Dunkirk and co-editor of an anthology of case studies examining the employment of Close Air Support.
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.
If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.
Free for Associates but booking is required. Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card.
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
Doors will open at 12:45pm and the talk will begin at 1:00pm. There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1:40pm.
Meeting location
This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.
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 in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information.
