The Charter Dinner Weekend 2025

This past weekend, The Royal Company of Merchants welcomed visiting Masters, their Consorts and Clerks from livery companies across the UK — historic organisations dedicated to education, charitable work and professional development.

To kickstart the weekend, 127 guests gathered for The Charter Dinner, an evening inspired by our motto Terra Marique — “By Land and Sea.” The theme celebrated Edinburgh’s heritage as a port city and Scotland’s exceptional produce from both land and coast.

The weekend continued in fine form on Sunday morning, as the heads of the livery companies returned for a private pre-opening tour of the National Galleries of Scotland. The visit was led by Chief Curator Patrick Elliott and Assistant Curator Tor Scott, offering an intimate view of the Andy Goldsworthy exhibition. The experience was kindly facilitated by the Company Archivist Vince Mason, with Master Grant Macrae OBE and Treasurer Katie Ridland accompanying the group.

The morning concluded back at The Merchants’ Hall, where guests gathered for  The Fellowship Brunch to reflect on the previous evening and say their farewells. We were once again delighted to see Members join in with this occasion, spending time with our livery guests and enjoying a relaxed close to an unquestionably busy weekend.

These gatherings not only strengthen our ties with the livery companies but also provide a meaningful exchange of ideas and values that continue to shape the work of The Royal Company of Merchants.

FEEDBACK FROM THE CHARTER DINNER WEEKEND:

What an enjoyable occasion it was all round. The company, the guests seated around me, the meal itself and that tremendous sense of occasion you so rarely see today. Truly terrific — many thanks.”

“Everything was flawless… The Hall looked resplendent in all its finery and the quick turnaround of dining tables from Friday to Saturday’s brunch was amazing.”

“A fabulous evening and one we should be proud of.”

“So many small, important improvements, the sum of which creates a really fabulous night.”

“Super to see the Hall in all its glory!”
 
“Many congratulations on an absolutely superb evening last night. The food, wines and service all contributed to an outstanding Charter Dinner and one that we as Members and you as the organising team can be very proud of.”

“I think this is the best Charter Dinner that I can remember and the quality of everything was right up with the dinners attended at the London livery companies. Bravo!”

“The last two days have been outstanding.”

“There have been so many positive comments about this year’s Charter Dinner: “The best I can remember”, “The card was beautifully produced”, “Great food, lovely wines and excellent service”… it was a truly excellent event.”

“This was the best, most professional and uniquely ‘us’ series of events I have attended since joining the Company.

More comments continue to be received on the success of The Charter Dinner weekend. Thank you to everyone who joined us!