This special event, in collaboration with Gladstone’s Library and the Armenian Institute, celebrates the Armenian nation and Gladstone's support for its people. Get a rare opportunity to see artefacts gifted to Gladstone by the Armenian nation in gratitude for his support. Hear expert talks from historians and readings from Francis Gladstone (Great-Grandson of William Gladstone), and experience the beauty of Armenian classical music at our three-course dinner.

In the face of the Hamidian Massacres, when the Armenian people were subjected to horrific atrocities under the Ottoman Empire, Gladstone’s moral compass and dedication to human rights led him to act. Responding to a heartfelt appeal from the Armenian community, Gladstone—despite ill health and advanced age—emerged from retirement to deliver a rousing speech in Chesterton Town Hall, condemning the atrocities. His words, fueled by his Liberal values and Christian faith, reverberated across the globe, culminating in his timeless declaration:

“To serve Armenia is to serve civilisation.”

Gladstone’s advocacy extended to a rally in Liverpool, where he addressed over 6,000 people, further galvanising international attention to the plight of Armenians. His courageous stand not only offered hope to a persecuted people but also brought light to the atrocities across the globe.

Experience one of the finest private members' clubs in the UK




Discover gifts that were given to Gladstone by the Armenian people in gratitude for his support and friendship

In 1896 an Armenian delegation visited Gladstone in his ancestral home of Hawarden Castle to bring him gifts from the Armenian people as thanks for his support and friendship. We are honoured to be able to see and learn more about these gifts in the pre-event reception where the Gladstone’s Library will have some of these special artefacts on display.

Learn more about Gladstone & Armenia 

Talks will be held under the large portrait of Gladstone in the Club’s grand Smoking Room. Hear from expert historians and key speakers discussing Gladstone’s legacy and work to support the Armenian people. Speakers include:

• Patrick Derham OBE - Chair of the Trustees of Gladstone’s Library
• Professor Micheal Wheeler - cultural historian of the Victorian age and a Visiting Professor of English at the University of Southampton
• Tatiana Der Avedissian - Chair of the Armenian Institute and Head of Business Development at The Economist Group
• Francis Gladstone - Great-Grandson of William Gladstone

Enjoy a three-course dinner with interlude of Armenian classical music

Following the talks there will be a three-course meal expertly crafted by the National Liberal Club Kitchen Team, where we will be joined by classical pianist Sipan Olah (Artistic Director and Conductor of KCCA), who will be playing two unique Armenian piano pieces by Komitas and Arno Babajanyan.