ScotsinLondon

11/06/2026

09/06/2026

What are you doing on Sunday 21st June?

How about world class musicians, magnificent music by Verdi, Handel and Purcell, one of London's most beautiful church buildings... and something you don't hear very often these days: it's completely free!

On Sunday, 21st June at 1.30pm, St Columba's welcomes Bellows & Brass – the acclaimed duo of Simon Tong and Benedict Lewis-Smith – for a special Sounds of St Columba's recital celebrating the rich and glorious pairing of trumpet and organ.

Whether you're a lifelong lover of classical music or simply looking for a peaceful and uplifting way to spend a Sunday afternoon, this promises to be a wonderful concert filled with warmth, colour and musical brilliance.

And here's where we need your help.

Please share this post. Invite a friend. Bring a neighbour. Tell a family member. Tag someone who loves music. Let's fill the pews and give these outstanding musicians the audience they deserve.

In a city where entertainment often comes with a hefty price tag, this is a rare opportunity to enjoy exceptional live music for free in the heart of London.

Who will you bring with you?

09/06/2026

There's something rather special about looking back through the archives of St Columba's and discovering how much has changed, and how much has stayed the same.

Recently, we came across a copy of The New Building and the Old, a booklet published by the church in 1974. Sold for the princely sum of 30 new pence and funded by the Friends of St Columba's, it was created to help visitors and members better understand the history and significance of our beautiful church.

What struck us most was the foreword by the Rev. J. Fraser McLuskey, who wrote of the "never-ending stream of visitors from many lands" who came through the doors of St Columba's. More than fifty years later, those words still ring true. People continue to find their way to Pont Street from across London, Scotland and around the world, seeking friendship, worship, community and a sense of belonging.

The booklet also contains photographs of ministers from earlier generations, reminding us that we are part of a much longer story. Every minister, elder, volunteer, member and visitor has helped shape the St Columba's we know today.

As we look at these pages from 1974, we're reminded that while fashions change, prices rise and London continues to evolve, the spirit of welcome that inspired those who came before us remains at the heart of St Columba's.

Do you remember this booklet? Were you part of the congregation in the 1970s or do you have memories of St Columba's from years gone by? We'd love to hear your stories and see any photographs you might have tucked away in albums and drawers.

06/06/2026

📬 The June Scots in London newsletter is out now!

This month's edition includes a look back at our recent Ceilidh, news and updates from across our member organisations, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved in the Scottish community across London and the South East.

Not signed up yet? Don't miss future editions – join our mailing list today and have the latest news delivered straight to your inbox.

And if you're new to Scots in London, don't worry – you can also catch up on previous newsletters and see what you've been missing on our website.

https://www.scotsinlondon.org/newsletter

05/06/2026

When people think of St Columba's, they often think of Sunday worship.

But the truth is that St Columba's is a community that comes alive seven days a week.

From morning until evening, our beautiful building in the heart of London is filled with people gathering for friendship, learning, creativity, wellbeing, music and support.

On any given day you might find fitness classes, children's activities, community groups, Scottish country dancing, concerts, rehearsals, support groups, meetings, coffee mornings or cultural events taking place under one roof.

We have even hosted events such as the St Andrew's Book Festival and the Festival of Silence, bringing together people from all walks of life.

St Columba's has always been more than a church building. It is a place where people find friendship, discover new interests, share experiences and become part of a welcoming community. Whether you are Scottish, have a connection to Scotland, are new to London, or simply looking for a place to belong, there is a place for you here.

Our doors are open throughout the week and there is always something happening. Why not pop in, say hello, join an event or simply enjoy a cup of coffee and a conversation?

You never quite know who you might meet at St Columba's, but you can be sure of a warm welcome.

What is your favourite St Columba's memory or event? We'd love to hear in the comments.

05/06/2026

At Crown Court Church we rejoice in the wide diversity of people of faith and doubt who make their home in our community, and in we particularly celebrate the place of the LGBT+ people in our rich tapestry of belonging. Not only do we have LGBT folk within our community, but we are also proud to be able to celebrate same s*x marriage at our church, in line with the affirming stance of the national Church of Scotland. We are open and affirming to people of different s*xualities and gender identities, so if you are looking for a church, but have been burned by discrimination or exclusionary practices, you will be warmly welcome here!

03/06/2026

Over the course of series three, The ScotsCare - the charity for Scots in London Podcast has brought together an extraordinary collection of Scottish voices, stories and experiences.

From celebrated author Sir Alexander McCall Smith reflecting on curiosity, community and the importance of positivity, to Gregory’s Girl star John Gordon Sinclair discussing family, creativity, social anxiety and the twists of fate that shape a life, the series has explored what it means to be Scottish far beyond Scotland’s borders.

Along the way we’ve heard from broadcasters, actors, writers, musicians and cultural figures whose journeys have taken them from towns, villages and cities across Scotland to lives and careers on much larger stages.

The conversations have been funny, thoughtful, honest and often deeply personal. They have touched on ambition, identity, home, friendship, success, setbacks and the enduring connection many Scots feel to the country they came from.

The series concluded with legendary music journalist Billy Sloan, whose remarkable career interviewing some of the biggest names in music provided a fitting finale – a story of passion, determination and following what you love.

At its heart, the podcast continues to reflect what ScotsCare is all about: connection, community and celebrating the stories of Scots who have built lives away from home while never quite leaving Scotland behind.

A huge thank you to all of our guests and listeners for making series three such a success.

If you missed any episodes, now is the perfect time to catch up - https://scotscare.com/podcasts/

01/06/2026

This , we'd like to shine a light on the people behind Scots in London.

Many people know us through our events, newsletters, social media and the activities of our member organisations. What you might not know is that Scots in London is run almost entirely by volunteers.

The Scots in London team gives its time, expertise and energy to help bring people together, support Scottish culture and heritage in London, and create a strong community

From planning events and supporting member organisations to governance and fundraising, countless hours are given freely throughout the year to keep Scots in London thriving.

As an organisation, we simply couldn't do what we do without them.

To all our volunteers, past and present, thank you. Your commitment, enthusiasm and generosity make a real difference.

And to everyone who attends an event, reads our newsletter, follows us online or supports our members — thank you for being part of the community too. ❤️

27/05/2026

26/05/2026

If you love great writing, lively conversation and celebrating Scottish culture in London, becoming a Festival Friend of the London St Andrew’s Book Festival 2026 is a wonderful way to get involved 📚

Running from 17–22 November 2026, the festival will once again bring together authors, thinkers and storytellers to venues across London.

By becoming a Festival Friend, you’ll not only be supporting one of London’s most distinctive cultural festivals, but also enjoying a range of exclusive benefits including:
- Advance booking
- Discounts on tickets
- Invitations to the exclusive launch party
- A printed festival programme delivered to your door
- Opportunities to share ideas and help shape future festivals

Membership is £75 per person or £140 for couples.

Whether you come for the books, the discussion, the atmosphere or the sense of community, we’d love to welcome you as part of the festival family.

Find out more at standrewsbookfestival.org