THE CHATHAM DINING CLUB is a London dining and debating club. Founded in 1910 to discuss military and international affairs, the Club has met almost continuously since then, pausing only for the two World Wars and the outbreak of Covid-19.
As the years have passed, the Club’s objectives and membership have become much wider. Offering the opportunity to listen to distinguished speakers in convivial surroundings on a wide range of topical subjects of international and national interest, encompassing politics, economics, ethics and the arts.
Meetings are relatively small gatherings consisting of dinner, followed by the speaker and what is often a lively question and answer session to which all are encouraged to contribute. The evening is under The Chatham House Rule – so encouraging speakers to present their views frankly, knowing that they will not be quoted outside the meeting. The Club’s membership stands at around 170 with meetings held in Brooks’s, The Caledonian, The Cavalry and Guards, and in other clubs in St James’s.