The Orwell Society
UK-based literary and educational organisation dedicated to promoting the work and legacy of George Orwell.
Patron: Richard Blair

George Orwell
George Orwell is the renowned author of Nineteen Eighty-Four, Animal Farm, Homage to Catalonia, and numerous essays on politics, culture, and society.
The Orwell Society, founded in 2011, aims to encourage a deeper understanding of Orwell’s ideas, his commitment to truth, and his relevance in contemporary times.
The Orwell Society Mission
The Orwell Society operates with the primary goal of advancing the study and appreciation of Orwell’s literary and journalistic contributions.
The Society is independent and is not Party Political. The Society supports research into Orwell’s life and work including that on the themes of totalitarianism, freedom of speech, and social justice, and encourages the application of his insights to modern political and cultural issues.
Activities
The society organises a variety of activities, including:
- Lectures and Conferences – Hosting talks by Orwell scholars, journalists, and writers who explore Orwell’s influence on literature and political thought.
- Educational Initiatives – Supporting students, researchers, and writers through essay competitions and grants to encourage engagement with Orwell’s work.
- Publications and Newsletters – Producing articles, book reviews, and newsletters to keep members updated on Orwell-related discussions and new research.
- Guided Tours and Visits – Arranging visits to key Orwellian sites, such as his birthplace in India, his homes in the UK, and locations significant to The Road to Wigan Pier and Homage to Catalonia.
- Social Media and Online Presence – Engaging with a wider audience through its website, blog, and social media platforms, where Orwell’s ideas are discussed in relation to contemporary issues.
How to Join The Orwell Society
The Orwell Society is a registered UK charity and all subscriptions and donations go towards promoting the life and work of George Orwell.
We welcome members from all backgrounds, including academics, students, and general readers interested in Orwell’s work. Members gain access to exclusive events, research materials, and discussions on Orwell’s enduring impact.
Latest Articles
Judging Panel – Dystopian Fiction Prize 2027
Our Professional Judging Panel Richard Blair Richard Blair is the son of George Orwell and the patron of The Orwell Society. Taking an active role in the society’s events and prizes, he hopes they will provoke meaningful discussions about Orwell and the issues his father took a passionate interest in. Nicola Rossi N. A. (Nicola) → Read full article
Winner of the Dystopian Fiction Prize 2026
The Winner of the Dystopian Fiction Prize 2026 Kit Killigrew (University of Bristol) ‘Two by Two’ * Runner up Claire Suzanne Hickenbotham (Nottingham Trent University) ‘Opted Out’ * Congratulations to Kit and to Claire ‘Two by Two’ will appear in the Orwell Society Journal * May 2026 * The shortlist for the Dystopian Fiction Prize → Read full article
Polperro 2026
In October Richard Blair, son of George Orwell, visited Polperro Heritage Museum in the Cornish town where the young Eric Blair (who became George Orwell) spent his summer holidays. The Blair family had strong associations with the artists of Polperro, detailed in this exhibition. In this letter George Orwell – then a seventeen year old → Read full article
The Terrible Face Of Tyranny
Animal Farm: as witnessed by Moses the Raven, written and performed by Dov Citron, and directed by Victoria Waddington. * A Review by Ian Bloom, Secretary of the Orwell Society * There have been various adaptations of Animal Farm since it was first published in 1945, beginning with George Orwell’s own radio drama of his → Read full article
The Orwell Statue
The Orwell Society owns the statue of Orwell (sculpted by Martin Jennings) outside Broadcasting House the headquarters of the BBC in London.
