The Betjeman Society was established in 1988 to advance the appreciation of the work of the poet, writer, broadcaster and conservationist Sir John Betjeman (1906-84). We also exist to inform and inspire our members and the wider public through the study, awareness and enjoyment of his life, work and influence, both in the United Kingdom and internationally.
Welcome to
The Betjeman Society
The Society is a member of the Alliance of Literary Societies and works in partnership with a range of literary, conservation and heritage organisations, with which Sir John Betjeman was closely associated. They include the Victorian Society, the Twentieth Century Society, SPAB, the Churches Conservation Trust and the National Churches Trust. We also support the Betjeman Poetry Prize, which was established by his late daughter, Candida Lycett Green.
We provide an annual programme of events both nationally and regionally and publish an annual journal which provides insights into aspects of Betjeman’s work and places and people he knew. Many of our meetings are held in central London.
We have also introduced The Betjeman Society Award, normally presented at our AGM. We are a Registered Charity, Number 1205030.
membership
New Members Welcome
We welcome new members – click here for details of how to join. Membership entitles you to attend our regular meetings at a reduced rate and to receive our regular newsletters and our annual publication The Betjemanian, one of the leading literary society journals. We also have an X (formerly known as Twitter) account with a growing following: @BetjemanSociety.
The Society has over 500 members and welcomes new members, who are vital to our work and future success. We have branches in Canterbury, Lincolnshire, Wantage, The Shires (covering Leicester, Derby, Nottingham, Northampton and Rutland), Severn & Wye, Southern (Surrey, Sussex & Hampshire) and The Ridings (Yorkshire). National members are all welcome to attend regional events.
We very much hope that you will consider joining us and supporting our work – which has never been easier since you can do so online today and pay via paypal.
I look forward to seeing you at one of our meetings.
Andrew McCallum
Vice Chairman
“We are a think-tank determining how we can best ensure that Betjeman’s ideas, priorities and writings are neither misrepresented nor forgotten. We are a pressure group, constantly reminding publishers, editors, broadcasters and others with influence that Betjeman is a name to be reckoned with. Finally we are a society of friends who came together because of a shared interest...”
– Philippa Davies (our Founder)
Published Poetry
Radio/TV Broadcasts
Published Books
‘Comfort and Joy’ – Betjeman’s “Christmas” Poem in Country Life magazine
Comfort and Joy Country Life magazine declares that "No poet, however, better encapsulated Christmas than Sir John Betjeman in his wonderfully...
LISSCA – Liverpool Street Station – “Do Not Pass Go”
https://www.victoriansociety.org.uk/national-news/dont-let-network-rail-and-the-city-play-monopoly-with-liverpool-street-station/
LISSCA Public Meeting on 21 November at the Bishopsgate Institute from 6pm
Dear Betjeman Society Member I've been informed that the Public Meeting fronted by LISSCA, previously postponed, to rally opposition to the Network...
Liverpool Street Station redevelopment update – LISSCA – 25 October 2023
Dear Betjeman Society Member Having just sent one email update to you I now must send another because, today, Network Rail has resubmitted their...
Contraflow launch event – 11 November at 7pm
Contraflow Come and join Kevin Gardner, Vice President of the Betjeman Society at the launch of his latest book, 'Contraflow' which he co-edited...
Major fundraising appeal launched to Save Liverpool Street Station
Members of the campaign to Save Liverpool Street Station used The Betjeman Society's annual birthday celebration for its hero Sir John Betjeman, on...