25d • General discussion
The 2026 New Year Honours List: Celebrating Service, and Spotlighting Legacy
Congratulations to all our friends, colleagues, and contacts who have been recognised with an honour in The King’s 2026 New Year Honours List.
The 2026 King’s New Year Honours List recognises 1,157 individuals, from world-famous names to local legends, whose achievements have helped shape the UK's culture, communities, and global reputation.
From knighthoods for national icons, to medals for grassroots champions, the Honours system remains one of the UK’s most cherished traditions.
How the Honours System Works
Twice a year, at New Year and the King’s official birthday in June, a list is published celebrating individuals for their outstanding contributions to society. The Honours system dates back centuries, but has evolved into a more inclusive, representative celebration of service across every walk of life.
The Honours are awarded by the King, on the advice of the Cabinet Office Honours Committee. But crucially, anyone can nominate someone, making it one of the UK’s most meaningful ways to recognise merit, no matter who you are.
This Year’s Honours at a Glance
In 2026, a total of 1,157 people have been honoured, spanning a wide variety of fields, including:
- Entertainment and arts
- Sport
- Science and environment
- Community service and charity
- Business and innovation
- Education and public service
This year’s list reflects a continued shift toward diversity, accessibility, and recognition of everyday heroes, alongside household names and cultural icons.
Standout Stars: Arts, Entertainment and Culture
A host of famous faces received honours this year, including:
Idris Elba, the actor, filmmaker and philanthropist, receives a Knighthood for his work supporting young people through the arts.
Cynthia Erivo, star of stage and screen, most notably for the Wicked films, receives an MBE for her contribution to music and drama.
Meera Syal is awarded a Damehood for services to literature, drama and charity, a celebration of her pioneering impact on British-Asian representation.
Warwick Davis, known for roles in Star Wars, Harry Potter and more, is honoured with an OBE for services to drama and charity.
Richard Osman, author and broadcaster, receives an OBE for services to literature and broadcasting.
Ellie Goulding, singer and environmental advocate, is recognised with an MBE for her work on biodiversity and climate awareness.
Sporting Legends and National Pride
Sport continues to be a powerful force for national unity, and this year’s list is packed with powerhouse athletes, and coaches:
Sarina Wiegman, manager of the England Lionesses, receives an honorary Damehood, recognising her global impact on women’s football.
Leah Williamson, Lionesses captain, is awarded a CBE for her leadership and contribution to association football. With MBEs going to Alex Greenwood, Keira Walsh, Georgia Stanway, and Ella Toone, all vital to England’s recent footballing success.
In rugby, John Mitchell, Zoe Aldcroft, and Marlie Packer receive OBEs, while players including Ellie Kildunne, Megan Jones, and Sadia Kabeya receive MBEs for services to Rugby Union.
Notably, 20-year-old Olympic gold medallist Toby Roberts is the youngest honouree in the 2026 New Years Honours List, awarded an MBE for achievements in sport climbing.
The Power of Purpose: Community and Charity Heroes
Among the most moving stories on the list is that of Gary McKee, known locally as the ‘Marathon Man’. Running 365 marathons in 365 days, raising over £2 million for charity in West Cumbria.
At the other end of the age spectrum, 102-year-old John Hearn is one of four centenarians honoured this year, receiving a BEM for his lifelong service to Judo and community development in North East England.
Recognising Business Leaders Making a Social Impact
Recognition also extends to those leading change through enterprise:
Simon Roberts, CEO of Sainsbury’s, is recognised for services to the retail industry, especially during challenging economic times.
Whilst Sebastian Munden, Chairman of environmental non-profit WRAP, receives an honour for his work in business and the circular economy, a vital field as the UK targets net-zero.
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty CEO Demetra Pinsent has been recognised and has received an OBE for services to business and the beauty Industry.
What are the different levels of the Honours System
The UK Honours system has several levels, each reflecting different levels of service:
- Member of the British Empire (MBE) awarded for local or national impact in any field
- Officer of the British Empire (OBE) awarded for major national impact and leadership
- Commander of the British Empire (CBE) awarded for leading roles at national or regional level
- Knighthood / Damehood (KBE / DBE) awarded for exceptional, and long-term impact across sectors
- British Empire Medal (BEM) awarded for ‘hands-on’ service to local community
Importantly, Honours are not just for the elite and well-known, any member of the public can nominate someone, and thousands do each year.
The Cabinet Office oversees the vetting process, ensuring that recipients reflect the UK’s values of service, diversity and achievement.
Why These Honours Still Matter
In a fast-paced, digital-first world, taking the time to pause and formally recognise achievement is more important than ever.
Honours spotlight excellence, raise awareness of vital causes, and give recipients a platform to do even more good. From artists to athletes, business leaders to volunteers, recognition often amplifies their voice and opens doors for others to follow.
Honouring All Forms of Achievement
The 2026 New Year Honours List is more than a roll call of big names, it’s a reflection of Britain at its best. A celebration of those who serve, uplift, and inspire.
At August, we believe in the power of recognition to drive change and build award-winning brands with impact. Whether you’re inspired by a global superstar or your local volunteer, let this list remind us all that every achievement matters, and every story deserves to be told.
Know someone extraordinary?
Consider nominating them for a future Honour.
How to Nominate Someone for an Honour
There is a free public nomination form on the GOV.UK website, and nominations must be supported by at least two letters from people who can evidence the nominee’s impact.
Nominations should be made while the person is still active in the role or work they are being recognised for, and it is strongly advised not to wait until retirement or it may be too late.
The process typically takes 12 to 18 months, although it can take longer in some cases – 2 – 3 years seems the most common timeline.
Despite how it is sometimes portrayed in the media, the honours system is not just for celebrities or politicians. At its best, it exists to recognise role models, people whose contribution inspires others and creates a ripple effect of positive impact.
So whether you agree or disagree with the system, it is a meaningful way to celebrate service, commitment and legacy. Personally, I look beyond the headlines and celebrate the many everyday honourees whose work has quietly changed lives and strengthened communities.
Congratulations to those on the list, it’s wonderful to read about the life changing impact, and the innovation and positive influence so many have had on society.
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The 2026 New Year Honours List: Celebrating Service, and Spotlighting Legacy
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