Social Events

We can’t wait to welcome you to London for the ASCOLA 2026 conference.

Alongside our academic schedule, we’ve curated a series of exciting social events designed to give you a chance to let off some steam, see the city, and have fun!

Day 1

Standing Reception

Location: University College London (UCL) Main Building

When: 18:00 – 22:00, July 1st

After we’ve kicked off the conference on Friday,  we’ll spend the evening at the historic heart of UCL. Join us for a standing reception in the iconic Portico Building. It is the perfect opportunity to break the ice and connect with colleagues before the conference begin in earnest tomorrow.

Day 2

Conference Dinner

Location: Goodenough College

When: Evening (TBC), July 2nd

Our traditional Conference Dinner will take place on Saturday night in the homely and distinctly British setting of Goodenough College.

The evening will begin with pre-dinner drinks, followed by a seated dinner. We will conclude the night with music and dancing, offering a chance to unwind after a busy day of panels. 

Day 3

Farewell Reception

Location: King's College London (KCL), Bush House Arcade Café

When: Mid-day (following the close of sessions), July 3rd

Before you depart on Sunday, we’ll host a final farewell reception at the Bush House Arcade Café at KCL. This will be a chance to wrap up discussions, exchange final contacts, and say goodbye over refreshments before heading home.

Boat Cruise

For those staying in London a little longer on Sunday afternoon, we have organised an (optional) cruise on the River Thames. You’ll get to experience the city from a different perspective while indulging in a quintessential British tradition - afternoon tea! The 90-minute cruise will offer scenic riverside views of London’s landmarks, accompanied by a commentary.

Event Details:

  • Date: Sunday, 3rd July

  • Time: Boarding at 15:15. Cruise starts promptly at 15:30 and finishes at 17:00.

  • Location: Tower Millennium Pier (right by the Tower of London)

  • Cost: £59 per person

  • Dress Code: Casual attire (Khakis, nice jeans, dresses, button-up shirts etc.)

Booking Information: Please note this is an optional extra and requires separate pre-booking. Booking will become available in March (we will notify you).

The Menu: You will be served a selection of sandwiches, mini pastries, and scones with clotted cream and jam.

Sandwiches

  • Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese on Light Rye & Caraway Bread

  • Egg Mayonnaise and Watercress on Basil & Spinach Bread (V)

  • Coronation Chicken on Brown Bread

  • Chipotle and Sweetcorn on Beetroot & Dill Bread (VG)

Scone

  • Scone with Cornish Clotted Cream and Strawberry Preserve

Pâtisseries

  • Lemon Meringue Tart (V)

  • Passionfruit & Mango Delice (V)

  • Mini Victoria Sponge (V)

  • Chocolate & Orange Ganache Slice (V)