TIME & LOCATION
Date and time: Friday 23rd October 2026 from 19:00 – 23:00
Location: The Hepburn Suite, The Royal Scots Club, 29 Abercromby Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6QE
ABOUT THE TRAFALGAR NIGHT DINNER
A classic and beloved event at The Royal Scots Club featuring welcome drinks and 3-course dinner.
On 21st October 1805, 27 British Royal Naval ships achieved one of history’s most decisive victories, defeating a combined French and Spanish fleet of 33 warships and ending Napoleon’s ambition to invade Britain. Vice-Admiral Lord Nelson’s strategic approach secured the triumph, though at the ultimate cost of his own life as he was struck down on the quarterdeck of HMS Victory.
Each year, the Royal Navy honours that victory and mourns that loss through the great tradition of the Trafalgar Night Dinner – a formal Mess Dinner steeped in naval custom and ceremony, raising a glass to those who fought and fell on that October morning.
This year, The Royal Scots Club is proud to host an evening in that same proud tradition.
An evening of history, tradition, and great company awaits.
Dress code: Black-tie. Miniature Medals welcome.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
We will be joined by Brigadier Ian Gardiner RM as our guest of honour for the evening.
Ian Gardiner fought in the Dhofar War in Oman from 1973 to 1975 where he was decorated with the Omani Distinguished Service Medal for Gallantry. He also fought in the Falklands War commanding a rifle company in 45 Commando. He commanded a RM detachment in a frigate and qualified as a Bridge Watchkeeper. After the IRA bombed the Royal Marines School of Music at Deal in 1989 he was appointed Commandant to help restore the morale of the RM Band Service. Subsequent command of 40 Commando included his fourth operational tour in Northern Ireland. He was also an Equerry to the late HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and he is now a lecturer and an author of military history
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