A group of 30 Lightmongers were privileged to join a private tour of St. James’s Palace, and in particular HM Chapels Royal, which had been organised by the Master, Tony Ginman, for 26th March 2025.

The visting group of Lightmongers

The visit was hosted by Jon Simpson, Sergeant of the Vestry and Head Verger of the Ecclesiastical Household, who gave a fascinating talk about the history of St. James’s Palace in general and some of the main buildings within it. The central part of the tour was the two Chapels Royal within the Palace, one known as the Chapel Royal, St. James and the other as the Queen’s Chapel, both of which have a long history and lots of attractive architectural features.

Historically the Chapels Royal was the Church organisation that travelled with the Royal household when it progressed throughout England and Wales. There was and is a similar organisation for Scotland.

The tour finished with a glass of wine and the opportunity to ask our host, Jon, a wide range of questions, which he answered with plenty of detail and wit. A super event, which the Master thanked Jon Simpson for on behalf of the visiting Lightmongers.

A memorable and unique Lightmonger event.