Patrick Cordingley DSO OBE DSc FRGS

Lecturer • Historian • Commentator

Drawing on a lifetime of leadership, exploration and international experience, Patrick Cordingley delivers engaging lectures on history, world affairs, Antarctica, remembrance and some of the most fascinating places and events of our time.

An author, broadcaster and respected commentator, Patrick combines expert insight with personal experience, bringing history, exploration and international affairs vividly to life for audiences around the world.

Explore lectures enquire about availability

Patrick's lectures are shaped by experiences few people can claim.

From Antarctica to the Middle East, from Albania to Burma, from Chile to Libya, he has travelled extensively, witnessed history first-hand and met many of the people who have helped shape it.

Whether discussing Antarctic exploration, remembrance, international affairs or leadership under pressure, Patrick brings audiences closer to the events, places and personalities behind the headlines.

His talks are informative, thought-provoking and engaging, often leading to lively discussion long after the formal presentation has ended.

View Lecture Topics >

Antarctica & Exploration

From the heroic age of Antarctic exploration to the extraordinary stories of Captain Scott, Shackleton and Captain Oates, Patrick's lifelong interest in Antarctica has inspired some of his most popular lectures. As co-author of Captain Oates: Soldier and Explorer, he offers unique perspectives on exploration, endurance and leadership in extreme conditions.

Remembrance & Heritage

Patrick has long been involved in preserving and promoting Britain's national heritage, including supporting the National Memorial Arboretum and championing the importance of remembrance. His talks offer thoughtful reflections on service, sacrifice, leadership and the lessons history continues to teach us today.

Remarkable Places & Extraordinary Encounters

From working with King Leka of Albania and meeting senior Burmese military leaders, to living in Libya and working in Chile during a period of political change, Patrick's experiences provide audiences with fascinating insights into places rarely understood from the outside. These personal stories bring history and international affairs vividly to life.

Author, Broadcaster and Commentator

Patrick is a bestselling author and a widely respected commentator on international affairs, history and public life. His book In The Eye of the Storm reached Number One in the UK non-fiction bestseller list, while his articles have appeared in leading national newspapers and specialist publications. He has been a frequent contributor to BBC Radio 4's Today Programme and has appeared across BBC, ITV and Sky News discussing major international events and world affairs.

Lectures for a Wide Range of Audiences

Patrick regularly presents lectures for cruise and expedition voyages, historical and heritage organisations, travel and cultural groups, universities, educational institutions, professional organisations, conferences and special events. Every lecture is carefully researched, thoughtfully prepared and can be tailored to suit the audience, event, destination or programme theme.

General Patrick Cordingley’s contributions to the programme have been a joy. Clear, direct and articulate summaries stripped of hyperbole, cant and repetition, all with a dash of ’traditional’ British understatement and good humour. What a refreshing change from the daily diet of obfuscating propaganda dished up to us by the politicos.
Listener
Radio 4 Programme

ABOUT PATRICK

Author, broadcaster, lecturer and commentator, Patrick Cordingley has spent a lifetime exploring the world, studying history and helping audiences better understand the people, places and events that shape our lives. His talks are informative, entertaining and highly interactive, often leading to lively question-and-answer sessions long after the formal presentation has concluded.

Learn More About Patrick

A LIFETIME OF EXPERIENCE. A WORLD OF STORIES.

From Antarctica and the Falkland Islands to the Middle East, Libya, Chile and Burma, Patrick Cordingley has spent a lifetime exploring remarkable places, meeting extraordinary people and witnessing history first-hand. Today, he shares those experiences through engaging lectures that combine insight, humour and thoughtful discussion, helping audiences better understand the world around them. His talks are informative, entertaining and highly interactive, often leading to lively question-and-answer sessions long after the formal presentation has concluded.

Enquire about availability

LECTURER | HISTORIAN | COMMENTATOR

AUTHOR | BROADCASTER | WORLD AFFAIRS SPEAKER

What does Patrick Cordingley speak about?

Patrick lectures on Antarctica, exploration, world affairs, history, remembrance,
international relations and leadership.

Where does Patrick lecture?

Patrick regularly presents lectures for cruise and expedition voyages, historical and
heritage organisations, travel groups, universities, professional bodies,
conferences and special events

Can Patrick tailor lectures to specific audiences?

Yes. Lectures can be adapted to suit particular destinations, themes,
organisations and audience interests.

How can I enquire about booking Patrick?

Please get in touch via the contact page to discuss your event,
lecture programme or speaking engagement.