The appointment of Honorary Members began in 1902. Almost one per year was appointed in the first half of the 20th century, but in the second half that had slowed down to one every three years.

By accepting Honorary Membership of the Company, the individual honours the Company, recognising that it is a prestigious organisation.

The Patron of the Merchant Company is Her Majesty The Queen.

Past Honorary Members of the Merchant Company have included many distinguished individuals including HM Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother; Andrew Carnegie (1902); The Rt Hon A. Bonar Law (1904); The Rt Hon Neville Chamberlain (1938); The Rt Hon Sir Winston Churchill (1940); and HRH The Princess Royal (also an Old Master).

HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, KG,KT and the HRH The Prince of Wales, KG, KT, PC, GCB are amongst current Honorary Members. For a full list, click here.