Since 1927

Our History

From a radio broadcast by a future king to a global movement of 30,000 members

Where It All Began

The Birth of Round Table

Round Table was born in the UK when Louis Marchesi was inspired by a speech given by the future king in 1927.

Marchesi had been inspired by a radio broadcast made by the Prince of Wales (later Edward VIII), who called for the young men of Britain to 'sit round a table, adopt an idea, and seek to improve it'.

The speech referred to King Arthur's Knights of the Round Table and spoke of the importance of young people coming together in the spirit of friendship and working together to do good.

Taking the elements Louis enjoyed from an existing men's club, Rotary, and merging them with elements of the Prince of Wales' speech, the idea for Round Table was born.

Historical Photo

"History will be kind to me, for I intend to write it."
Winston Churchill

Through The Years

A Timeline of Round Table

1927

The Inspiration

The Prince of Wales makes his famous radio broadcast calling on young men of Britain to sit round a table, adopt an idea, and seek to improve it. Louis Marchesi is listening.

1927

Round Table Founded

Louis Marchesi founds the first Round Table in Norwich, combining the best elements of Rotary with the Prince's vision of young men working together for the common good.

1930s

Rapid Growth Across Britain

The movement spreads quickly across the UK as young men embrace the ethos of fellowship, community service, and self-improvement. New tables open in towns and cities nationwide.

1940s

Surviving the War Years

Despite the disruption of World War II, Round Table endures. Many members serve in the armed forces, and the organisation's community spirit proves vital during challenging times.

1950s

Going International

Round Table crosses borders, establishing tables in Europe and beyond. The founding of Round Table International (RTI) marks the beginning of a truly global movement.

1960s-70s

The Family Grows

Ladies Circle is established as a sister organisation. 41 Club and Tangent follow, ensuring the Round Table family extends beyond the 18-45 age bracket. A complete family of organisations is born.

1980s-2000s

Millions Raised for Charity

Round Table establishes itself as one of the UK's leading charitable organisations for young people. Millions of pounds are raised for local and national causes across hundreds of branches.

Today

30,000 Members, 60 Countries

Round Table is a truly international organisation with over 30,000 members in 60 countries and 300 local branches across Great Britain and Ireland. The original values remain at its heart.

Looking Forward

A Living Legacy

Having raised millions for charity, Round Table is changing lives while staying true to its original values.

It's not just about breaking free from traditional constraints; it's about making a tangible, positive impact on communities, trying new experiences, and forging lasting friendships that echo the spirit of King Arthur's legendary Round Table.

Here in Halifax, we carry that same torch. Every event we organise, every pound we raise, every friendship we build - it's all part of a legacy that stretches back nearly a century.

The spirit of Marchesi's original vision lives on in every table, in every town, in every country where Round Tablers gather to do good and have a great time doing it.

Modern RT Photo

Be Part of the Story

Nearly 100 years of brotherhood, charity, and community. Join us and write the next chapter.

Find Your Table