The Landor Lecture with retired High Court Judge, Sir John Saunders
Monday 23 February 2026, 19.00 – King’s High Hall

Sir John Saunders has kindly agreed to be guest speaker for the 2026 Landor Lecture. Sir John was called to the Bar in 1972 and developed a distinguished career as a barrister specialising in criminal and licensing cases, becoming Queen’s Counsel in 1991. He joined the judiciary in 2004 as Recorder of Birmingham and was appointed a High Court Judge in 2007. During his time on the Bench, he served as a Presiding Judge of the South Eastern Circuit and, from 2014 to 2016, was the Judge in charge of the terrorist list, responsible for the early management of all terrorism cases. He was also a member of the Sentencing Council. Sir John presided over a number of high-profile trials, including prosecutions of MPs and peers for false expenses claims and the series of cases arising from the phone-hacking scandal. Since stepping down as a full-time Judge in 2016, he has sat as a Deputy High Court Judge in the Court of Appeal Criminal Division and served as a Commissioner in Jersey. He is head of the Court of Appeal for St Helena and the Falkland Islands. Sir John has provided judicial training in Africa, Trinidad, Mexico, and Europe. He was Vice Chairman of the Parole Board from 2016 to 2020 and was Chairman of the Public Enquiry into the Manchester Arena bombing.

Since retirement, Sir John has been able to enjoy more time playing the baroque flute and harpsichord, and occasionally performing in concerts.

All welcome. Tickets are complimentary but need to be booked in advance using this form.