Queen James - the life and loves of Britain's first king

History In The Hall – a new series of 5* lectures

Date: Wednesday, 22 October 2025 in our 3rd Floor Lecture Suite

We know so much about the six wives of Henry VIII, so why not the six loves of James I? James Stuart, King of England, Scotland and Ireland, did not always love wisely, but he never failed to do so boldly.

He fell in love three times – with a Scottish baron, a knight and George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, “the handsomest man in the whole world.” He was infatuated three more times with a Highland earl, a Welsh lord and an English spy.

In the first of our new History In The Hall series of lectures, best-selling author, historian and broadcaster Gareth Russell takes us on a rip-roaring journey through one of the most gripping stories in British royal history.

Based on his ground-breaking new book Queen James, it will be an eye-opening evening of murder, kidnapping, witchcraft, politics, religion, strong love, stronger hate, espionage, brothels and a decade-long love affair that ended in an assassination.

Leading historian Tracy Borman says: “Books like this don’t come along very often. It is a story so compelling and surprising that it feels as if it has been hiding in plain sight for 400 years. This is a must for history fans everywhere.”

The evening is open to members and their guests. Tickets cost £25 and include wine, soft drinks and nibbles. Space is limited to 50 people so early booking is essential.

The event will also be streamed live on YouTube around the world! The code for the one-hour stream costs £10 and this is open to anyone.

Gareth will be signing copies of his book at £25 each. Gareth has kindly waived his normal speaking fee and all profits from the evening will be donated to the Stationers' Hall Charity.

Tickets: £25 includes the lecture, wine, soft drinks and nibbles
                   £50 includes the lecture, drinks and nibbles, plus a signed copy of the book
                   £10 online only

Schedule:
6.30 PM Drinks reception
7.00 PM  Lecture begins in 3rd Floor Meeting Rooms
7.50 PM Q&A
8.00 PM Drinks & Nibbles
8.30 PM Event Ends

Dress code: Smart Casual