A Memorable Evening at The Queen’s College Fettiplace Gaudy

Last night, I attended my first ever formal dinner at an Oxford college—and what a privilege it was that it should be at The Queen’s College, for their Fettiplace Gaudy. The invitation alone felt like an honour; to be seated at High Table, next to the Provost, was truly extraordinary. High Sheriffing is definitely bringing me some amazing experiences.

A Gaudy is a formal gathering or reunion dinner, typically held by Oxford and Cambridge colleges for their alumni (or 'Old Members') and distinguished guests. These occasions are rooted in centuries-old tradition—rich in ceremony, conviviality, and often marked by music, fine dining, and speeches. While Gaudies today are often seen as a way to reconnect and celebrate college life, they often have deeper historical or commemorative purposes.

The Queen’s College holds its Fettiplace Gaudy in memory of William Fettiplace, the last in line of a prominent medieval Berkshire family. In 1526, he bequeathed to the College the manor of Letcombe Bassett and various lands across what was then Berkshire (and is now partly Oxfordshire). His gift came with instructions: Queen’s was to provide an annual meal (the Gaudy), a sermon, and a payment for maintaining a chantry at Childrey.

Although the chantries were dissolved under the Reformation in 1551, the College has preserved the tradition of the Fettiplace Gaudy as a mark of gratitude and continuity. The Loving Cup ceremony—still observed during the dinner—is said to feature the very cup bequeathed by Fettiplace himself, lending the evening a poignant connection to its origins.

The evening began beautifully with Evensong in the College’s exquisite chapel. The music was glorious—soaring harmonies in a space that seems made for contemplation and gratitude. It set the tone perfectly for what was to come: a night of tradition, fellowship, and fine conversation.

Dinner in Hall was a delight from start to finish. The food was outstanding—special mention must go to the chocolate pudding, which was nothing short of sublime—and the service impeccable. I was struck by the warmth of the hospitality and the ease with which conversations flowed. It was especially good to spend time with a number of Heads of Houses, many of whom were keen to explore how their individual colleges might support the Shrieval theme of Hearing the Young Unheard. That level of interest and engagement was both welcome and encouraging.

The evening also included the Loving Cup ceremony—an ancient tradition full of symbolism and, on this occasion, made even more special by the use of the original Loving Cup bequeathed to the College by Fettiplace. There's something quite moving about participating in a ritual that has connected generations of scholars across centuries.

Another highlight was catching up with Oxford’s newly appointed Lord Mayor, Louise Upton. We compared notes and shared a few laughs, both delighted to be part of such a special occasion.

I came away from the Gaudy not just full (in every sense), but genuinely uplifted. It was a joyful celebration of history, education, and community—and a reminder of how treasured traditions can still speak powerfully into the present day.