LONDON.- The Society of Antiquaries of London, based in Burlington House just off Piccadilly, is celebrating the 800th anniversary of the 1225 Magna Carta from 23 July to 19 September 2025 with a 9-week public exhibition, a comprehensive learning and outreach programme, and the creation of a digital edition to engage a wide audience with the historical significance of Magna Carta and the Charter of the Forest.

The Society has three rare 13th-century copies of Magna Carta and received a £123,304 grant from The National Lottery Heritage for this exciting project highlighting the Magna Carta’s enduring legacy. Magna Carta, one of the most important documents in history, has influenced legal and human rights systems worldwide, from the French Revolution to the United States Constitution and the United Nations’ Declaration of Human Rights. In addition to Magna Carta, the project will also highlight the Charter of the Forest, a crucial companion document that expanded the definition of ‘forest’ and safeguarded the rights of the freemen who relied on these lands for their livelihood.

The exhibition will feature a remarkable 1225 reissue by Henry III - the version later confirmed in English law. The public engagement programme will also explore the historical and modern-day relevance of these documents, sparking discussions on justice, rights and freedoms.

Dr Michelle Johansen, Learning & Outreach Manager, is managing the Magna Carta 1225 programme: “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to share some of the Society’s most significant treasures and are looking forward to debunking myths and exploring the enduring relevance of both Magna Carta and the Charter of Forest with a range of new audiences.”

A maker-in-residence will offer a creative response to the theme of Magna Carta as will a programme with artist Dan Llywelyn Hall.

Stuart McLeod, Director of England - London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We are delighted to support this project, which thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, will mean that more people will be able to get involved with, protect, and learn about this important heritage.”

The exhibition is open to the public on Wednesdays to Fridays, 11 am – 4 pm (last entry 3.30pm) from Wednesday, 23rd July to Friday, 19th September 2025. Free entry, no booking required.