The Club’s 2023 City Giving Day Walk was yet again a wonderful event. Led by our Hon. Secretary Murray Craig, a qualified City Guide, we enjoyed an absorbing day full of twists and surprises that left those present eager for more. Starting in Guildhall Yard, we found ourselves rotating as we were told of the Yard's history. Murray's knowledge and expertise were on full display as he gave us fascinating historical accounts of the surrounding buildings: the Guildhall itself, the Art Gallery, the newly renovated St Lawrence Jewry and the West Wing including the modern structure housing the Aldermen’s Courtroom, often referred to - we were told - as “the rocket ship”! 

Moving away from the Yard, we explored many sites whilst our guide shared interesting stories and details. These included the mysterious Mercers’ Maid and the Shakespeare Memorial the latter being a bust of Shakespeare but actually dedicated to the two men who published the Bard’s First Folio in 1623. 

We also went into Pewterers’ Hall where we were welcomed by their Master and Clerk and viewed their Royal Charters and other artefacts – and then finally we stood alongside the walls of the Roman Fort adjacent to Plaisterers’ Hall. Throughout the walk, we were regaled with many intriguing facts. For example, if you look up at the Guildhall you can see the Serjeant-at-Arms' mace and the Sword-Bearer's sword carved into the pillars. We were also told of the derivation of the term “keeping things under your hat” which stems from the same Sword Bearer keeping the Seals of Office under his Muscovy fur hat. 

Our tour was followed by a highly convivial lunch at Browns, Old Jewry where Chairman, Laurence Johnstone had arranged for us to meet up with a group from his Livery, the Chartered Surveyors’ for champagne and an opportunity to mingle with a visiting Civic entourage. This included the Lady Mayoress, Sheriff Andrew Marsden, the Lady Mayoress Elect as well as several other notable Livery Masters and Past Masters. All in all, the event was an excellent day that reminded us of the City's unique characteristics and importance. Echoing the wise words of Murray, when walking around the City “always look up”.