February may be cold and dark, but it’s the perfect time to start looking forward to the longer, brighter days ahead. The Trollope Society is excited to announce a series of events this spring and summer to celebrate the life and work of Anthony Trollope. Whether you’re interested in book launches, special dinners, literary tours, or even a trip to Belgium, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a look at what’s coming up.

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Book Launch: Anthony Trollope – A Very Short Introduction
by Professor Dinah Birch

Date: 21 March 2025 | Time: 6.00-8.00pm | Venue: The Athenaeum, London

Join us for the launch of Anthony Trollope – A Very Short Introduction, written by Professor Dinah Birch. This members-only event will take place on 21 March at The Athenaeum, where Trollope himself was a member. Professor Birch will talk about writing the book, which provides a clear overview of Trollope’s life and work. Luciana O’Flaherty from Oxford University Press will also discuss Trollope’s place in the Very Short Introductions series. It’s a great chance to learn more about Trollope from an expert. Free to attend, donations towards the cost of refreshments are appreciated. Every donation will help reduce costs, enabling more members to attend.

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London Reading Group: Visit to St George’s, Bloomsbury

Date: 24 April 2025 | Time: 6.00-8.00pm | Venue: St George’s, Bloomsbury

On 24 April, we’ll celebrate the 210th anniversary of Trollope’s birth at St George’s, Bloomsbury, where he was baptised. The evening begins with a tour of the church, including the font where Trollope was christened, followed by wine, cake, and a discussion on the historical events of 1815. It’s a great opportunity to explore how history shaped his work. Light refreshments (glass of wine or soft drink) will be served on arrival. Price £15.

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150th Anniversary Dinner: The Way We Live Now

Date: 31 July 2025 | Time: 7.00-10.30pm | Venue: The Reform Club, London

Join us for a special dinner to mark the 150th anniversary of The Way We Live Now. This members-only event will take place at The Reform Club on 31 July. The evening will start with a reception with wine and canapés, followed by a two course dinner, coffee and petit fours. Professor Dinah Birch will give a talk on the lasting impact of this important novel. It’s a chance to reflect on the relevance of Trollope’s work today while enjoying a great evening with fellow members. Tickets are £100.

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Lunch & Literary Tour of Kensal Green Cemetery

Date: 1 August 2025 | Time: 12 noon – 4.00pm | Venue: Kensal Green Cemetery, London

On 1 August, join us for a literary tour of Kensal Green Cemetery, where Trollope is buried. We’ll begin with a buffet lunch at The William pub, then head to the cemetery for a guided literary tour. As well as visiting Trollope’s grave, we’ll explore other literary connections in the cemetery, including Wilkie Collins, Thackeray and Dickens. The cost for lunch and the tour is £35, or £18 for just the tour.

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Trollope Society Trip to Brussels & Bruges

Date: 29 August – 2 September 2025

Join us for a trip to Brussels and Bruges from 29 August to 2 September to follow in the footsteps of Trollope and his family. We’ll visit the Trollope family home in Bruges, the cemetery where several members of the Trollope family are buried, and Blankenburg to see the site of the duel between Phineas Finn and Lord Chiltern. The trip will also include seminars on Trollope’s novels and lectures about the Trollope family’s time in Belgium. Members will need to make their own travel and accommodation arrangements. Reserve your place by making a deposit of £100 per person, refundable up to the end of May 2025.

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These events offer a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Trollope and connect with other members of the Society. From book launches to dinners, tours, and a trip abroad, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to book your places early – we look forward to seeing you.

For full details of all Trollope Society events visit our calendar.