On October 29, 2024, I had the distinct honour of attending the installation of Admiral Sir George Zambellas as the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, a position rich in maritime heritage dating back to the 12th century. The ceremony unfolded at the Duke of York’s Royal Military School in Dover, a location steeped in history and overlooking the iconic Dover Castle. Maison Dieu, Dover’s historic Town Hall, has served as the ceremonial site for the installation in recent centuries, most notably for Winston Churchill’s postponed ceremony in 1946. Earlier records of the installation ceremony are scarce, but traditionally it was held at the Bredenstone, also known as the ‘Devil’s Drop of Mortar’, on the Western Heights overlooking the Channel. This year, the venue was reconsidered due to the ongoing conservation and refurbishment of Maison Dieu, one of the most extensive historical preservation projects in its history.
The day’s proceedings began with a dignified procession of mayors and representatives from the fourteen-member towns of the Confederation of the Cinque Ports. This assembly included the five Head Ports—Hastings, New Romney, Hythe, Dover, and Sandwich—the two Ancient Towns of Rye and Winchelsea, and the seven limbs or members: Lydd, Folkestone, Faversham, Margate, Deal, Ramsgate, and Tenterden. Their collective presence underscored the enduring unity and significance of these coastal communities, which have historically provided naval support to the Crown in exchange for privileges and autonomy.
At 10:45 a.m., Admiral Sir George Zambellas arrived, escorted by Brigadier James Webster, Deputy Constable of Dover Castle, and Ian Russell, Registrar and Seneschal of the Cinque Ports. In a moment steeped in symbolism, Sir George was presented with the Key to Dover Castle; the castle itself is often referred to as the ‘Key to al England’. This gesture highlighted his role as Constable of the castle, a position intertwined with the office of Lord Warden. The key had been specially brought over to the ceremony from Dover Castle by officials from English Heritage.
The Hallowing Service, held within the school’s chapel, was a solemn and reflective ceremony. As the congregation stood, the Lord Warden entered, preceded by the Admiralty Sergeant bearing the Silver Oar of Admiralty—a historic emblem of maritime authority within the Cinque Ports. The School Chaplain placed the Silver Oar upon the altar, adding a profound sense of tradition to the proceedings. The Right Reverend Rose Hudson-Wilkin, the Bishop of Dover, led the service, invoking blessings upon Sir George as he assumed his new responsibilities. The congregation joined in the Lord’s Prayer, fostering a collective spirit of reflection and hope for the future. The service concluded with the congregation singing the first verse of the National Anthem, a unifying moment that resonated deeply with all present.
Following the service, attendees moved outside to witness a fly-past in honour of the new Lord Warden, which Lord Zambellas’ military colleagues had organised. The fly-past was a highlight of the day, symbolising the enduring connection between the Cinque Ports and the nation’s maritime defence. The day’s events continued with the Grand Court of Shepway, held in the school’s Nye Hall. One of the Confederation’s surviving institutions, this ancient court formally convened to install Sir George into the ancient office. The Registrar read the Lord Warden’s Precept, summoning the mayors and barons of the ports to attend and affirm their allegiance. Each representative stood and bowed to the Lord Warden, a gesture of respect and commitment to uphold the privileges and duties of their respective towns. The Honourable Sir Nigel John Martin Teare, Judge Official and Commissary of the Court of Admiralty of the Cinque Ports, delivered an address of congratulation. A light-hearted pause in the formal proceedings came when Sir Teare shared an anecdote about Lord Zambellas nearly running aground during a particularly treacherous mission in the Channel. The former Admiralty Judge humorously noted that any resulting wreckage, or resultant flotsam, and jetsam would fall under the Lord Warden’s jurisdiction. Sir George responded with gratitude, acknowledging the weight of the office and his dedication to serving the Confederation.
The ceremony concluded with a display by the Band of the Royal Marines, their performance a stirring tribute to the maritime heritage of the Cinque Ports. As their musical notes filled the air, I could not help but reflect on the enduring legacy of these historic towns and the significance of the Lord Warden’s role in preserving their rich traditions. Attending this installation was witnessing a ceremonial event but experiencing a living tapestry of England’s maritime history. It was a day that honoured the past while looking forward to the future under the stewardship of our new Lord Warden, Admiral Sir George Zambellas.
Dr. Christopher Moore
Research Fellow, University of Kent