Congratulations to Derek Hilling of the Birth of England Project, The Times, Tom Holland and all those involved in the campaign to recognise England’s 1,100th birthday.
Only five days ago The Times View bemoaned the lack of interest from the UK Government.
It’s not every year that a country celebrates its 1,100th year. And what is the government choosing to highlight in 2027 instead? “The European Year of the Normans”. That’s right. To commemorate the birth in 1027 (possibly 1028) of William the Conqueror. Yes, that ruthless adventurer and international aggressor — and French to boot.
Now, the Birth of England Project is seeking to right this injustice by proposing festivities next year marking Athelstan’s coup. There is talk of 1,100th anniversary commemorative stamps and coins, maybe a holiday. Why not? While other parts of the UK celebrate their nationhood, English people tend to look upon flag-waving as a bit suspect. Perhaps that’s why they prefer a start date celebrating a hostile takeover: 1066 and all that.
Tory Shadow Minister Rebecca Paul raised the issue in Parliament.
Next year marks 1,100 years since Athelstan united England. This important anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate our history, bring communities together and help the next generation learn about our national story. That’s why today I called on the Culture Secretary to put in place plans for a fitting commemoration. I’m delighted that she has now agreed to do so and will work with me on this. We should be proud of our history. Let’s give this anniversary the recognition it deserves.
— Rebecca Paul MP (@Rebecca_SPaul) November 12, 2026
The Minister for Culture in England, Lisa Nandy (who has a blindspot when it comes to England), was completely oblivious to the issue.
“This hadn’t been brought to my attention before,” Nandy said. “But I have to say that the ceremonials minister [Stephanie Peacock MP] has just said to me that this is ‘right up her street’ and she would be very delighted to work with the honourable member to ensure that we do have a fitting commemoration.”
Peacock said: “It is right that we commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the birth of our great country. I know communities across the nation will want to come together to mark the occasion and celebrate our shared stories and rich heritage.”
Those writing in support of celebrating England’s birthday include Tom Holland in the Guardian, Quentin Letts in the Mail, Dominic Sandbrook in the Times, and even the Wall Street Journal.
A YouGov survey found support for a bank holiday to mark England’s birthday among respondents in England.
