The Worshipful Company of Curriers, one of the livery companies of the City of London, has established an essay prize on London for early career scholars, in association with The London Journal Trust and the Institute of Historical Research.

The author of the winning submission will receive £1,000, and publication, subject to peer review, in The London Journal. Other promising entries may also be considered for publication.

Essays must fit within the scope of The London Journal. They may be on any aspect of London life, past and present, reflect any relevant approach or disciplinary perspective, and can consider London alone or in comparison with other cities. Essays must be based on original research, and should not have been previously published.

The prize is open to postgraduate students and early career scholars based anywhere in the world. ‘Early career’ is defined for this purpose as someone who has completed (i.e., been successfully examined for) a PhD within the previous three years.

Submissions for the 2026 competition are due by 23.59 UK time on 31 January 2026. Further details, and the submission portal, can be accessed via the Institute of Historical Research’s website.