Within British society, few accolades are as prestigious as national honours. These honours, awarded by the reigning monarch on behalf of the government, are given to showcase and celebrate outstanding contributions, service, or achievements in various fields. From knighthoods to Orders of the British Empire, each honour holds its unique significance, representing a higher level of recognition for individuals’ dedication and excellence.
In this article, we showcase the ever-desirable honours in order of importance, what they entail and how you can receive one!
Before diving deeper into the hierarchy of British honours, it’s crucial to grasp the diversity of the categories. British honours can be classified into orders, decorations, and medals.
Orders are prestigious societies of honours, often divided into several ranks, each signifying a different level of distinction. Those who receive orders become members of esteemed fellowships, recognised for their exceptional contributions to society.
Decorations are individual honours presented to individuals for their praiseworthy service or acts of bravery. These honours typically come in the form of medals, ribbons, or other emblems, symbolising the recipient’s courage, dedication, or achievement.
Medals are awarded for specific services, campaigns, or accomplishments. They signify recognition for individuals’ contributions to particular causes, campaigns, or events.
At the peak of British honours stand the Orders of Chivalry, which represent the highest level of recognition. These orders trace their origins back centuries and are dripping in tradition and prestige! The most regarded orders of chivalry include:
Established by King Edward III in the 14th century, the Order of the Garter is the oldest and most prestigious order of chivalry in Britain. Comprising the sovereign and 24 knights, membership is presented to those who have showcased extraordinary service to the nation.
Today, the Order includes The King, who is the Sovereign of the Garter, several senior Members of the Royal Family, and twenty-four knights chosen in recognition of their work. These Knights of the Garter are carefully selected personally by the Sovereign to honour those who have held public office, contributed in a way to national life or have served the Sovereign personally. These have included former Prime Ministers Sir John Major and Sir Winston Churchill.
The Order of the Thistle is the greatest order of chivalry in Scotland, recognising sixteen Knights with the highest honour in the country and awarding Scottish men and women who have held public office or contributed in a particular way to national life. The Order is second only in precedence in England to the Order of the Garter.
The date of the foundation of the Order is not known, although legend has it that it was founded in 809 when King Achaius allied with Emperor Charlemagne!
The King is the Sovereign of the Order of the Thistle, and the honour can only be bestowed upon Scottish nationals, limited to 16 ordinary members. Every other year, dressed in green velvet robes, the Knights take part in a grand ceremony at the Chapel of the Order of the Thistle in Edinburgh. The Knights and ladies join together for the procession in St Giles Cathedral, where any new members are installed into the Order by the Sovereign.
Following closely behind are the Orders of Merit, recognising exceptional achievements and contributions across various fields. Notable orders in this category include:
The Companions of Honour is a distinguished order of chivalry in the United Kingdom, established in 1917 by King George V. It awards individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the arts, science, medicine, or government service. Members of this order are limited to a select group of 65 living people at any given time, including the Sovereign and additional members appointed for their exceptional achievements.
The insignia of the order, a red ribbon worn around the neck, establishes the status as a Companion of Honour. Recipients of this honour are recognised for their enduring impact and influence in their respective fields, and their membership serves as a testament to their significant contributions to society.
Knighthoods are revered in British society, symbolising honour, integrity, and service. Recipients of knighthoods are addressed as “Sir” for men and “Dame” for women. Key knighthoods include:
Knight Grand Cross (GBE)
The highest rank in the Order of the British Empire, awarded for prominent national or international achievements and service.
Knight Bachelor
Conferred upon individuals for significant contributions to their respective fields or for notable public service.
Knight Commander (KBE) / Dame Commander (DBE) of the Order of the British Empire
The Knight Commander (KBE) and Dame Commander (DBE) of the Order of the British Empire are prestigious honours awarded for exceptional service or achievement, typically at a national or international level.
Established in 1917, these honours recognise individuals who have made a profound impact in their respective fields, demonstrating extraordinary leadership, dedication, and accomplishment.
Knights and Dames Commanders are distinguished figures in society, renowned for their contributions to areas such as government, diplomacy, academia, or the arts.
Their exemplary achievements and service exemplify the highest ideals of the British Empire, inspiring others through their vision, integrity, and commitment to excellence.
The titles of “Sir” and “Dame” bestowed upon recipients of these honours carry with them a legacy of honour, duty, and service to the nation.
While medals and decorations may not carry the same hierarchical weight as orders and knighthoods, they still represent significant recognition for exceptional service, bravery, or contributions. Notable medals include:
Victoria Cross (VC): The highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
George Cross (GC): Awarded for acts of the greatest heroism or most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger.
The British Empire Medal (BEM) is awarded for praiseworthy service, recognising sustained contributions or a singular act of remarkable devotion to duty.
Established in 1922, the BEM honours both civilian and military personnel who have made significant contributions to their communities or professions. It acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and service, often behind the scenes, in areas such as charity work, public service, or acts of bravery. The BEM stands as a testament to the dedication and selflessness of its recipients in bettering society and upholding the values of the British Empire.
The Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) is awarded for outstanding service or achievement in various fields such as arts, sciences, charitable work, and public service. Established in 1917, the MBE recognises individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective areas, contributing positively to society and the nation as a whole. Recipients of the MBE are distinguished for their dedication, innovation, and leadership, embodying the ethos of service and excellence. This honour highlights the diverse talents and contributions of its recipients, showcasing the richness of British society.
The Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) is awarded for distinguished service or achievement in various fields, recognising individuals who have made a significant impact at a national or international level.
Established in 1917, the CBE is a prestigious honour bestowed upon leaders, innovators, and influencers who have demonstrated exceptional skill, vision, and dedication in their endeavours. Whether in the realms of business, politics, academia, or the arts, CBE recipients have excelled in their fields, leaving a lasting legacy and contributing to the advancement of society and culture. The CBE reflects the highest standards of excellence and leadership, celebrating the outstanding achievements of its recipients.
Aspiring to receive British honours? The journey may feel complex and daunting. Navigating the nomination process, compiling compelling evidence of merit, and crafting persuasive recommendations require meticulous attention to detail and expertise. This is where we can help to support you.
Awards Intelligence was launched in 2007, after Mark Llewellyn-Slade identified a need for an organisation that helped people to nominate their friends, family, business and community contacts for Royal honours such as an MBE, OBE, CBE or knighthood/damehood.
Today, we help assist individuals in applying to the House of Lords and other high-level public appointments as well as helping companies to find, enter and win prestigious business awards. We are now considered to be the world-leading consultancy for professional drafting services. Get in touch with us today to discover more about how we can help.