Last Updated on 05/01/2026
The City Livery Guide provides a comprehensive overview of the City of London’s Livery Companies, tracing their origins as medieval guilds through centuries of growth, decline, and revival. It explains their enduring traditions, governance structures, and ceremonial roles, alongside their modern contributions to education, charity, and civic life. The guide details links with the City of London, major events such as the Lord Mayor’s Show and Silent Ceremony, and the process of forming new companies. It includes an alphabetical directory of all current companies with contact details, outlines their charitable and educational initiatives, and lists schools historically connected to the Livery.
An extract from the guide
The City of London Livery Companies are a unique blend of history, tradition, and modern purpose. Originating as medieval guilds, they once regulated trades from tailoring to goldsmithing. Today, they’re vibrant organisations that champion education, charity, and civic life.
The future of livery companies remains vibrant and relevant. In recent years, new companies such as the International Bankers, Hackney Carriage Drivers, Tax Advisers, Educators, Nurses, and Communicators have all been granted livery status, reflecting the evolving landscape of professional and vocational life in the City….
The guide
