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Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage. Vanbrugh 300 is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to develop a nationwide project that aims to broaden the awareness of Vanbrugh through special displays, free education programmes and lectures, throughout his tercentenary year in 2026.
A beautiful Evensong Service of Commemoration was held at St Stephen Walbrook in the City of London to celebrate the life and legacy of the remarkable architect and playwright Sir John Vanbrugh. The service took place on 26 March 2026, marking the 300th anniversary of Vanbrugh’s death in 1726. Until now, there has been no monument to Vanbrugh at his place of burial. Supported by The Georgian Group and the Worshipful Company of Chartered Architects, the service concluded with the unveiling of a new wall monument designed by Caroe Architecture.
The Address was given by Lord Chartres, who reflected on Vanbrugh’s life and work before blessing the new monument. The Officiant was the Revd Stephen Baxter, and the Readers included Vanbrugh’s biographer Charles Saumarez Smith, Nick Howard, Co-Chairman of Castle Howard, and Chris Bicknell, Master of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Architects. Music was performed by St Stephen’s Voices, directed by Andrew Earis, with Jonathan Dods at the organ. A full recording of the service is available on St Stephen Walbrook’s YouTube channel.
