A sunset landscape image with a tree and elephant in silhouette
  • In Person
    • Date:
    • Time: 18:45 - 23:00
    • Location: Royal Lancaster London
    • Admission fee: From £170

    FOOTSTEPS TO FREEDOM BALL

    40 years of action for wild animals

    Footsteps to Freedom will be the launch event of Born Free’s 40th year and we are delighted to announce that our exclusive, black-tie gala will be hosted by Born Free’s long-standing friend and animal champion, Amanda Holden – actor, broadcaster, and star of Britain’s Got Talent. An array of distinguished guests and friends will also include our beloved Founder Patron, Dame Joanna Lumley.

    We will also be holding a silent auction, which anyone can bid on in the lead up to the event, whether you are attending or not.

    SEE ALL THE AUCTION LOTS

    The evening will include:
    • A Warm Welcome: A welcome aperitif upon arrival and a warm, personal welcome from Will Travers OBE, the Born Free team and our Patrons, as you and other guests mingle in the beautiful surroundings of The Royal Lancaster
    • Dinner: Three courses of fine dining, including wine, with coffee and petit fours to finish
    • Inspiration & Entertainment: Incredible live performances, inspirational guest speakers, and stories of courage and tenacity make for an unforgettable atmosphere
    • Live Auction: Hosted by Born Free Patron, TV auctioneer James Lewis, bid for exclusive items and unrepeatable experiences, with all proceeds going directly to our charity
    • Silent Auction: Discover unique and treasured items that could be yours
    • Dancing: Conclude the night on the dance floor with our live band

    *Please note we will not be printing tickets. Confirmation of your tickets will be sent to you when you purchase them online and your names will be added to our guest list.

    Footsteps to Freedom captures the very essence of what we strive to achieve at Born Free. Our mission: to keep wildlife in the wild. This event will be more than a treasured memory – it will represent a milestone on our journey of compassion, a journey that never ends.

    Dame Virginia McKenna DBE

    Footsteps to Freedom – Silent Auction

    To maximise the funds raised and enable our global supporters to get involved too, we’re thrilled to introduce to you our 40th anniversary silent auction – another way for everyone to contribute to a compassionate future for wildlife.

    We have been overwhelmed by the generous donations we have received from supporters old and new. Prizes include short breaks, artwork, jewellery, tickets to sporting events and concerts. You will be able to bid during the gala and beforehand too. We hope there is something that interests you as your participation adds to the excitement of the night as well as making a significant difference to our fundraising. Please do share the link with your friends and family and encourage them to take part too.

    You can use this link to view and register for our Footsteps to Freedom Silent Auction. We recommend registering in advance to save time and give you ample time to peruse the fantastic items on offer.

    Whether you’re a seasoned bidder or new to the world of auctions, we welcome you to take part to make a difference. Your support for this and throughout the evening will directly contribute to Born Free’s continued work. Thank you so much!

    Silent auction open date: Thursday 7th March 2024
    Silent auction closes on Thursday 21st March at 11 pm GMT – during the Gala!

    VIEW THE SILENT AUCTION

    FULL TICKETING INFORMATION

    Three types of ticket are available for the event: Lion, Elephant and Giraffe. Lion and Elephant tickets will only be bookable as full tables of 10; Giraffe tickets can be booked as a table of 10, or as individual tickets.
    • Exclusive front row table
    • Meet and greet with Will Travers OBE and celebrity host
    • Professional photography of your table and guests, including photo opportunities with celebrity host
    • Interaction with acts/performances
    • Born Free goody bag per person
    • Signed Gala programme by Dame Virginia McKenna
    • Upgraded drinks package
    • Can only be booked as a table of 10
    • Welcome reception with drink on arrival
    • 3 course evening meal, coffee/tea and petit fours
    • ½ bottle of wine and water
    • Live entertainment
    • Celebrity host
    • Live auction with auctioneer and Born Free Patron, James Lewis
    • £5,000 for a table of 10
    • Central table location
    • Born Free Gift
    • Can only be booked as a table of 10
    • Welcome reception with drink on arrival
    • 3 course evening meal, coffee/tea and petit fours
    • ½ bottle of wine and water
    • Live entertainment
    • Celebrity host
    • Live auction with auctioneer and Born Free Patron, James Lewis
    • £2,500 for a table of 10
    • Can be booked individually or as a table of 10
    • Welcome reception with drink on arrival
    • 3 course evening meal, coffee/tea and petit fours
    • ½ bottle of wine and water
    • Live entertainment
    • Celebrity host
    • Live auction with auctioneer and Born Free Patron, James Lewis
    • £1,700 for a table of 10, or £170 for individual tickets