Past Events

Political Discussion Group

Local party members have a long tradition of meeting to discuss topical political issues. Our current series of discussion groups first met on 26^th September 2024 to explore ‘what makes us different from other parties’ and how we build support/membership to work towards winning a parliamentary seat.  Europe was a key focus of discussion – ‘we have been and should continue to be seen as the most pro-European of all parties’.

This theme was further developed at our meeting on 16^th January 2025. We discussed Security, Migration and Economic Growth as three key challenges facing both the EU and the UK in 2025. This was explored in the context of the very real threats to liberal democracies worldwide plus the Climate Emergency.

At our most recent meeting on 22^nd May 2025, we focussed on the issues of immigration and the UK relationship with the EU. Key statements on these issues were reviewed and developed to inform our future campaigning.

Visit to the National Liberal Club

Tuesday 20^th May 2025

This was an opportunity to visit the Home of British Liberalism: www.nlc.org.uk/ 

We were welcomed to the Club by its past chair, Karin Rehacek, and by Dr Andrea Russell, Warden of the Gladstone Library – the UK’s only Prime Ministerial Library. This was followed by a guided tour of the magnificent building, hearing about its history and connections with many leading figures from UK politics.  

We were then fortunate to enjoy a talk by author and former MP Michael Meadowcroft who shared his insights and reflections on liberal history and values.  

The day was completed by afternoon tea on the riverside terrace.

Visit to Parliament

Saturday 22^nd February 2025

Canterbury Lib Dems travelled together on a visit to the Houses of Parliament.  Following a self-guided audio tour, we heard about the history of the Palace of Westminster and spent time in Westminster Hall, St Stephen's Hall, Central Lobby and the chambers of the House of Commons and House of Lords. All agreed it was an informative and enjoyable day out.

Christmas Quiz

Friday 6^th December 2024

Quiz nights are a regular feature on our events calendar.

Always a sociable occasion enjoyed with some food, drink and prizes!

Annual Dinner with Baroness Alison Suttie

Friday 1^st November 2024

We were delighted to welcome Baroness Alison Suttie as the guest speaker for our 2024 annual dinner. Alison spoke about recent international events, drawing on her experience of living, studying and working in Russia, Brussels, the Middle East and the Horn of Africa - not to mention Westminster!

Afternoon Tea with 'FIZZ' to celebrate our 72 new MPs

Sunday 8^th September 2024

Local party members gathered to celebrate our great national result in the General Election - 72 MPs! 

We also looked forward to the upcoming party Autumn Conference in Brighton.

Canterbury Pride 2024

Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th June 2024

Our Lib Dem councillors and members once again took an active part in Canterbury Pride, joining the march through Canterbury and with our street stall.

European Supper

Saturday 11th May 2024

An evening to celebrate Europe Day 2024.

We enjoyed a range of European foods and tested our knowledge on Europe and the EU!

Annual Dinner with Mark Pack

Friday 6^th October 2023

In 2023 the guest speaker at our annual dinner was Mark Pack, President of the Liberal Democrats. Mark spoke and answered questions about a wide range of issues, particularly the Lib Dem strategy for the future general election – which was to prove so successful in the national campaign.