Exhibitions at the Royal Institution - make a day of it

The Royal Institution is pleased to be hosting the Society of Biology's photo competition exhibition, as well as permanent exhibitions in the Faraday Museum

2013 winning image of a bee feeding at a flower, now on display at the Ri
Putu Sudiarta / Society of Biology

Permanent exhibition

As well as the photography exhibition, we have a permanent exhibition in the Faraday Museum, where you can explore the world-changing science of the Ri since 1799.

Around every corner are instruments and stories of people whose contributions to science continue to impact our lives today. From the odds and ends that became the first electrical transformer to the tube that told us why the sky is blue, view the actual objects Ri scientists built and used in some of the world's most famous experiments. For £3 (or for free if you join the Ri as a member), you can get yourself an eGuide that helps you explore the nooks and crannies of the museum.

While you’re at the Ri, you can grab a coffee or lunch in our bar and kitchen, enjoying 10% discount if you are a member or the amazing 2 for 1 deal on drinks every weekday from 5 – 7pm.

News

From the close-up capture of insect activity to images of our own interactions with the environment, the Society of Biology’s amateur photography competition brings in some amazing entries. From 17 March - 11 April, we are pleased to be holding a free exhibition of the shortlisted entries from 2012 and 2013 to coincide with the launch of this year’s competition.

Mark Downs, chief executive of the Society of Biology, says: “We received some stunning entries over the past two years and we hope that the exhibition will inspire other promising photographers to take part in the competition.” You can come along and pop into the Royal Institution to see for yourself!

Please note

Please note: The Royal Institution is open 9:00am – 6:00pm Monday to Friday. Please also check our planned closures before visiting.

Explore the area

You could then use these exhibitions as a springboard to explore the area. With so many other galleries, restaurants, shops and parks nearby, a day out on Albemarle Street is a great way to spend some time in Central London but still beat the crowds. Hidden gems of history, art and science are just moments away from busy Piccadilly. 

It may be Mayfair but there are plenty of free and cheap things to do! You can enjoy the intimacy of Albemarle Gallery and the Halcyon Gallery as well as the grandeur of the Royal Academy of Arts at Burlington House, where five learned societies also live: The Royal Society of Chemistry, The Royal Astronomical Society, The Linnaean Society, The Royal Society of Antiquaries, and The Geological Society.

Wander around Berkeley Square while listening to ‘A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square’ or enjoy the sunshine in Green Park. Take a stroll down Savile Row to see where The Beatles did their last ever gig together on the roof of what had been the Apple headquarters, and meander through pretty Lansdowne row. You can even enjoy a plate of South Indian, Thai, or Japanese food for under £10.

So when you’re next looking for a day out in London, and want to combine all sorts of interests, explore the area around Albemarle Street with its history steeped in science and art that continues to this day.