Recognising outstanding achievements across the nation
The UK New Year Honours List for 2026 has been officially announced, celebrating people from all corners of the United Kingdom who have made remarkable contributions to society. Published ahead of the start of the new year, the list recognises achievements in areas such as sport, public service, healthcare, charity, arts, education and community leadership. Each year, the announcement marks a proud moment for families and local communities who see their champions acknowledged at national level.
Honours on the list range from knighthoods and damehoods to CBEs, OBEs, MBEs and British Empire Medals, each awarded based on the scale and impact of the recipient’s service. The honours system continues to reflect the values and priorities of the nation, rewarding individuals whose work has made a meaningful difference to people’s lives. From high-profile names to everyday heroes, the list is designed to ensure credit is given where it is truly deserved.
Sports personalities feature prominently once again this year, with recognition for ongoing contributions to Britain’s success on the world stage. Icons of ice dancing Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean are celebrated for their decades of service to British sport, inspiring new generations as both athletes and mentors. Athletes representing the country in international competitions also feature, particularly those who continue to use their platform to uplift communities and encourage participation in sport.
Women’s football continues its strong presence in the honours system, following the lasting impact of England’s Lionesses on the nation. Several members of the squad, coaching staff and administrators have been rewarded for their role in raising the profile of the women’s game and delivering landmark success. Their recognition reflects the growing cultural significance of women’s sport and the way it continues to inspire girls across the country.
Healthcare professionals, including NHS doctors, nurses, researchers and frontline workers, remain a vital part of the honours list. Their dedication to public health, improvement of medical services and contributions to critical research have been highlighted once again. Many recipients are individuals who have gone above and beyond in patient care, particularly in challenging environments where their commitment has helped to save lives.
Community champions are also strongly represented. Volunteers working with vulnerable groups, charity founders, educators and youth leaders have been recognised for transforming local lives through perseverance and compassion. These are often the names that resonate most deeply within their neighbourhoods, reflecting acts of kindness and service that may otherwise go unnoticed by the wider public.
Representatives from the arts and entertainment sectors are honoured for their cultural impact. Actors, musicians, filmmakers and writers appear on the list for achievements that bring joy, creativity and shared cultural experiences to audiences across the UK. Their contributions not only enrich daily life but also help shape the country’s reputation internationally.
Public service forms another vital pillar of the honours system. Civil servants, local government leaders and members of the armed forces are among those recognised for strengthening national resilience, improving public welfare and demonstrating exemplary leadership. Their roles often support the backbone of British civic life, ensuring services operate smoothly and communities feel supported.
For the recipients, the awards include an invitation to attend an investiture ceremony at a royal residence, where they will be formally presented with their honours by the King or a senior member of the Royal Family. These ceremonies mark the personal culmination of years of dedication and provide a moment of celebration with loved ones.
The 2026 New Year Honours List continues a long-standing tradition of acknowledging excellence, bravery and altruism. It offers a reminder of the many ways individuals contribute to national life, whether through global achievements, local commitments or lifelong devotion to others. As the UK steps into a new year, the stories behind these honours serve as inspiration for the country and recognition for those who help make it stronger.
