What is a Livery Company?
The title Liveryman has its origins in medieval London. The word livery originally referred to clothing or insignia issued to members of a guild or the retainers of a noble household. Derived from the Old French livrée ( 'something delivered '), it described the distinctive robes or badges that identified a person's membership and status.
During the Middle Ages, the City of London's trade guilds presented their senior members with ceremonial clothing to wear on important civic occasions. Those entitled to wear this livery became known as Liverymen - a title that today applies equally to both men and women. Although the ceremonial robes are now worn only on special occasions, the title has endured for centuries as a symbol of full membership and an enduring connection with the traditions of the City of London.
The Livery Companies themselves evolved from the medieval craft guilds, many of which later became incorporated under Royal Charter. They played an important role in training apprentices, maintaining standards within their trades, regulating working practices and supporting the welfare of their members. Many companies, including The Worshipful Company of Glovers, carry the prefix Worshipful. In this context, the word means worthy of honour and reflects the Company's long - standing reputation and standing within the City. It has no religious meaning.
The Master and Wardens in their ceremonial robes.
What is a Liveryman today?
Today (2026) there are 114 Livery Companies in the City of London. While some continue to represent thriving professions, others, such as the Glovers, preserve the traditions of trades that have largely disappeared in modern Britain.
The Worshipful Company of Glovers was originally established to support those who made and sold gloves. Although traditional glove making in the UK is now a very small industry, the Company continues to thrive by focusing on charitable giving, education, supporting the trade where it still exists, maintaining close affiliations with the Armed Forces and preserving the rich heritage and traditions of the City of London.
Becoming a Liveryman marks full membership of the Company. A Freeman who progresses to the Livery is said to be 'clothed'. During the Clothing Ceremony, which takes place in front of members of the Court (the Company's governing body), a ceremonial gown is placed upon the new Liveryman. The gown is then worn at the formal luncheon that follows. After that ceremonial gowns are normally only worn by the Master, Wardens and, on certain occasions, members of the Court
New liverymen being clothed in front of the Court
Why become a Liveryman?
Becoming a Liveryman offers far more than membership of an historic institution. It provides the opportunity to become part of one of the City's oldest and most respected traditions while contributing to its future. After one year as a Liveryman, members gain the unique privilege of voting at Common Hall in the election of:
- The Lord Mayor of the City of London at Michaelmas Common Hall.
- The two Sheriffs of the City of London at Midsummer Common Hall.
These historic elections take place in Guildhall and continue centuries - old civic traditions, regularly attracting well over a thousand Liverymen. Equally important is the fellowship that membership brings. Liverymen are encouraged to become involved in the life of the Company by serving on committees, supporting charitable initiatives and attending the many social and ceremonial events throughout the year. For those with a competitive spirit there are also numerous Inter-Livery activities including golf, clay shooting, bridge, the famous Inter-Livery Pancake Race - and, for the adventurous, even skiing and barrel rolling. Above all, membership offers lasting friendships, opportunities for service and the chance to play an active role in preserving one of the City's most remarkable institutions
Annual Lunch following the Installation of the new Master
Annual Inter-Livery Croquet Competition organised by the Glovers
Annual Pancake Race in Guildhall Yard
What does a Liveryman do?
Liverymen are expected to support their Company through active participation, attendance at events and involvement with its charitable work. In return, they enjoy fellowship with fellow members, have opportunities to contribute to their Company's aims and charitable activities, attend fun and interesting events, and have a continuing connection with the history, culture and civic life of the City of London.
With recipients of the Open Bionics Big Hero 3 Campaign supported by the Glovers
Supporting Thames 21 to clean up our rivers with gloves and labour!
296 Stoke Newington Squadron RAF Cadets providing the Honour Guard at the Glovers annual banquet.
How do I join?
Membership of a Livery Company begins with admission as a Freeman, followed in due course by progression to the Livery.
Admission to the Freedom of a Company may be by:
- Patrimony – through a qualifying family connection.
- Servitude – following completion of an apprenticeship.
- Redemption – by application and election. Today, this is by far the most common route.
Within the Worshipful Company of Glovers, prospective members are usually introduced by sponsors and invited to attend a number of Company events to get to know the membership and learn more about the Company's activities. Those wishing to proceed are invited to submit a formal application and attend an interview with the Membership Committee. If recommended by the Committee and approved by the Court, they are admitted as Freemen of the Company at a formal Freedom Ceremony.
Before becoming a Liveryman, every Freeman must also obtain the Freedom of the City of London. Freemen are encouraged to progress to the Livery, as only Liverymen enjoy the full privileges, responsibilities and civic rights of Company membership.
Interested in finding out more?
If you would like to learn more about The Worshipful Company of Glovers, please contact the Clerk at
.
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