A Grand Finale to the 500th Anniversary Year in York

Sedbergh School marked the conclusion of its 500th anniversary celebrations with a magnificent carol service at York Minster, honouring both the School’s rich heritage and the strength of its present-day community.

The celebrations began with a sell-out Sedbergh Association dinner at the historic Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, one of York’s most iconic venues, dating back to the 14th century. Twinkling lights, festive decorations and ancient timber beams made for an atmospheric setting where 190 guests, including Old Sedberghians, friends of the School and members of staff, gathered to share a two-course dinner.

Guests were warmly welcomed by OS Club Chairman Duncan Berry, before Headmaster Dan Harrison reflected on the particular significance of York in Sedbergh’s anniversary year – touching on the pilgrimage made 500 years ago by the School’s founder, Roger Lupton, who walked from Sedbergh to York to be ordained as an acolyte.

Following dinner, guests took a short walk through York’s historic streets to the awe-inspiring York Minster, where the evening culminated in a spectacular carol service. The Sedbergh School Chapel Choir, joined by the Casterton Sedbergh Prep School Choir and other affiliated choirs, filled the vast space of the Minster with exquisite music. Their performance was shared with a congregation of 1,500 members of the wider Sedbergh community, who joined together in traditional congregational carols.

Reflecting on the evening, Acting Director of Development, Ben Collins said: “What a way to round off the 500th anniversary! Without a doubt, one of my favourite Sedbergh Association events. Two magical venues and a wonderful mix of people across the community. The perfect blend of Christmas cheer and 500th anniversary celebration. It made me incredibly proud to be an Old Sedberghian.”