EVENING LECTURE
LIVING A POLITE LIFE
WITH DR JENNY MAYHEW
Monday, 7th of September
Lecture begins at 19:00
TIME & LOCATION
Date and time: Monday 7th of September, 2026 from 19:00 – 20:30
Location: The Hepburn Suite, 29-31 Abercromby Place, EH3 6QE
ABOUT THE LECTURE
What to expect
LIVING A POLITE LIFE from Cradle to Grave – British rules for living and dying well.
Join us to explore the traditional codes of conduct that directed the lives of polite people in times past. These codes go far beyond table manners or social etiquette, extending into areas of spirituality, mental self-discipline, personal ethics and temperament. Instruction books taught readers how to behave at every stage of life, up until their deaths. We’ll consider advice on polite behaviour given by Daniel Defoe, Sir Walter Scott, Mrs Beeton, Lady Colin Campbell and other British writers.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Dr Jenny Mayhew has worked as a university lecturer, novelist and screenwriter, and is now researching the history of manners in Britain.
Join us
for Supper
The Abercromby Dining Room is open from 5:30 PM prior to each evening event. Join fellow members or come with friends and make a night of it.
UPCOMING EVENTS
The Captain’s Table
The Captain’s Table is a regular Royal Scots Club lunch where members and their guests can get together and enjoy good food, good conversation and meet new people.
Member only eventMembers Drinks
A rallying call! Gather with your friends and fellow social members in the cocktail bar for an evening drink and a chinwag on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Guests welcome. Food available for purchase. Attendance is free – all food and drinks can be Member only eventG.L.O.W. Gal’s Lunch
Gathering Ladies of Wit. A Royal Scots Club monthly lunch for our ladies and their guests in the Abercromby Dining room. Member only eventSummer Garden Party
Join fellow members and guests for our beloved annual Summer Garden Party in the stunning Queen Street Gardens East. An elegant evening of live music, food, and great company. Member only eventA Taste of Italy
Buon appetito! Join us in the Abercromby Dining Room for an indulgent evening of Italian music with a beautifully curated menu! Member only eventEdinburgh Military Tattoo & Dinner
Join fellow members for drinks and dinner at the Club before heading to Edinburgh Castle for the iconic Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo — an unforgettable evening of tradition and spectacle. Member only eventGrapes & Gruyère: Guided Tasting Experience
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply someone who enjoys a good drop and a cheeseboard, this is an evening made for you. Member only eventLegacy In Motion: Guided Club History Club
Discover the untold stories and history of the Royal Scots Club. A private bespoke Club tour with local historian Dr. Kate Stephenson. Member only eventArtist Exhibition – Alicia Coombes
Member only eventSt Andrew’s Day Dinner at The Royal Scots Club
Celebrate Scotland’s patron saint with a delicious three-course dinner, traditional musical entertainment, and an exciting guest speaker. Member only eventChristmas Special: Festive Wine Tasting
Join us for a bespoke festive tasting experience in the Underground Bar with Richard from Great Grog. Expertly paired wines and canapés to celebrate the silly season. Member only eventThe Royal Scots Club Murder Mystery
Join us for a festive murder mystery evening at the Club. Work with fellow guests to unravel the clues, identify the suspects and solve the case before the evening is out. Member only eventChairman’s Christmas Cocktails
Join our Chairman and other Members on Thursday, 17th December for a festive drinks reception. This is a complimentary event available for Members only. Member only event