Debate London
Ye Olde Cock Tavern, EC4, debate.london
On the first and third Wednesday of each month, Debate London offers free training to anyone interested in public speaking and debate. The idea is for people to learn about how to deal with conflict and to develop a range of skills in discussing the topics of the day, from NATO membership for Ukraine to falling birth rates in the UK. All are welcome and topics are expressed traditionally — not as a question, but as a proposal, with an audience vote to accept or reject thereafter.
104 London Debaters
Windsor Castle, SW1, 104londondebaters.club
The 104 Debaters host regular events at the Windsor Castle in Westminster, an area apt for the purpose of debate. Performed in the traditional manner, events are held as This House Believes, where three debaters offer an argument. Audience members are also invited to give their opinions, while the group also hosts workshops for those hoping to one day take part in a full capacity.
The Society of Cogers
Ye Olde Cock Tavern, EC4, cogers.org
The Society of Cogers is thought to be the oldest free speech forum in the world, founded in 1755 as a coffee bar debating society. The point is to help people improve their public speaking skills and increase their confidence, with regular meetings held in a traditional set up. New members are invited to attend and give a short five-minute speech on a subject of their choice (not compulsory, however).
