Nearby: Holborn

'One of the largest general philatelic societies in Great Britain whose members are drawn from throughout the UK and Overseas. The Society offers the renowned National Philatelic Society Library. UK members may borrow by post or obtain photocopies of material (copyright permitting). Browse the Library catalogues on line and contact the Library ... The Society holds its Meetings, normally on the second Saturday of the month (except August).'

'Brings together nine internationally renowned research institutes to form the UK's national centre for the support of researchers and the promotion of research in the humanities.'

‘We host a range of events worldwide, nationally and in London. These include festivals, student fairs, academic events, exhibitions in Senate House Library, and much more.’

'Founded in 1988 to promote research into all aspects of early Italy. It is now in its twenty-third year. Its name embodies the concept of agreement (Italian accordo). The name Accordia is a construct, and was conceived as an acronym - Academic Co-ordination Centre [for the] Organisation [of] Research [into the] Development [of] Italy [from] Antiquity ... The annual series of The Italy Lectures have become an established fixture in the diaries of all those interested in ancient Italy. They are widely appreciated for the diverse range of topics covered, the high standard of the lectures and the convivial post-lecture receptions.'

'The contemporary Adlerian approach to counselling and psychotherapy is based on the pioneering work of Alfred Adler, the physician and psychologist acclaimed alongside Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung as one of the "Big Three" founders of psychotherapy. A very popular public speaker in his time, his international lecture tours attracted a wide and varied audience, and many of the innumerable books that flowed from his talks and seminars are still in print today ... From the early 1950s the Adlerian Society has held monthly public lectures at this historic venue in central London [Conway Hall], where Alfred Adler himself lectured in the 1930s. The topics vary widely and are always relevant to the development and application of Adlerian psychology today. All are welcome (no need to book). Online tickets available.'

'The SOAS African Development Forum (ADF) is a student-driven platform for championing African development, bringing together leading thinkers in the field to stimulate informed discussion, challenge orthodox narratives, and bridge gaps in understanding between various development stakeholders'

Founded 1961. Aims include: ‘To make recent developments in the archaeology of Israel and neighbouring countries more widely known in the UK; To provide a series of illustrated public presentations explaining and informing on recent archaeological findings and new theories’... ‘Most of our meetings are held in Bloomsbury, in the Institute of Archaeology of University College, London (Gordon Square, WC1) and organised jointly with the Institute. We also regularly hold joint events with other institutions and organisations that share our interests, and we arrange museum visits and outings for members. Non-members may attend our lectures, but are encouraged to join and participate fully’.

'The broad cultural agenda of the Architectural Association (AA) is structured around three primary initiatives: a long-standing and world-renowned programme of talks and symposia; a curated programme of exhibitions; and a series of Open Seminars and Open Juries that enable the public to participate in the academic research being conducted throughout the school. These three strands, together with a host of special projects, constitute the Public Programme; a free and accessible series of events dedicated to advancing global architectural discourse.'

‘On April 19th 1880 at 17 Bloomsbury Square a group of five men met to discuss the establishment of a new student organisation for the serious discussion of philosophy.  Far from a gathering of professional academic philosophers, the group included a British Socialist activist, a Shakespeare scholar and importantly a young chemist – Dr. Alfred Senier – whose original idea it had been, along with some of his students, to set up a philosophical society ... Since its foundation, The Society has provided, and continues to provide, a welcoming forum for philosophers and non-philosophers alike to listen to high quality talks and to engage in philosophical discussion.'

Aims include: ‘To make available the results of research, and the expertise acquired, though teaching, publication, partnerships with other organisations, and promotion of public and civic debate’.

’An annual showcase of the varied activities of Birkbeck’s renowned academics.‘ Held Mid May.

‘The BISR plays an active role in promoting social research to a wide range of publics within London. We foster cross-disciplinary debate, critical thinking and the stimulation of new research agendas on important social issues. Our activities include seminars, conferences, symposia, thematic working groups and other academic events related to members' core interests.‘

‘Established in 2004 to stimulate research, public debate and collaboration among academics and intellectuals on important public issues of our time ... Key to our remit is the promotion of new ideas and forms of understanding in the Humanities and beyond. To facilitate this, we organise lectures, conferences, discussion panels, masterclasses and film screenings with colleagues at Birkbeck and beyond, many of which are free and open to the public.’

‘Hosts literary events for books lovers, academics and readers frequently in London and occasionally in Sydney ... With speakers drawn from the crème of Bloomsbury’s esteemed books in conversation with today’s top commentators and creatives, you’re invited to join us for a unique blend of talks, lectures and salon nights. Events are attended by an engaged audience of writers, readers, reviewers and journalists.’

‘Bookmarks keeps alive the tradition of radical bookselling, ensuring that activists have access to the most important lessons from history as well as cutting edge political analysis.‘

Occasional evening meetings in Central London.

Clearly-laid out Calendar covering Daytime events ('Gallery talks, lectures, films and exhibition introductions') and Evening events ('Lectures, debates, performances and films'), as well as many other events at the Museum.

‘Exists to promote the study and understanding of British Numismatics. This is interpreted broadly; embracing the study of all forms of coinage, tokens, banknotes and medals relating to the British Isles and former parts of the British Empire.‘

'The British Society of Master Glass Painters is fortunate to attract many eminent speakers on stained and architectural glass from amongst its UK and international membership and beyond. Subjects range from modern to mediaeval, brought to life by the enthusiasm and expertise of historians, conservators and contemporary practitioners ... Membership is available to all those with an interest in stained glass including ... amateur craftspeople and those with a general interest of stained glass.'

'The Camden History Society wants everyone to enjoy the history of the London Borough of Camden ... Members have free entry to all talks. Non-members are very welcome, £2 on the door ... Talks usually last around 50 minutes with time for questions afterwards. The venues we use are easily accessible by public transport.'

'Once a month we hold at least one social event and one or more talk/lecture on a subject of interest to our members.'

'Promoting and undertaking high quality research in order to contribute to the development of the historical discipline and to historical understanding in the field of public health policy.'

'The Centre offers a unique environment in which to undertake collaborative, cross-disciplinary and comparative research on visual subjects in the Hispanic and Lusophone world, Latin America and the Caribbean. Through the organization of lectures, film screenings, workshops and conferences, the Centre aims to foster and promote innovative debates in the history and theory of visual forms, both in the specific context of the Latin American and Iberian image-world and beyond.'

'The Centre hosts a number of annual and guest lectures during the course of the academic year. In addition, we organise a series of lectures relating to the practice of the diplomacy and international affairs, and to International Relations (co-organised by the SOAS Politics department).' Enquire about attendance.

Occasional lectures and related events: enquire about attendance.

'LLAKES holds a public seminar series throughout the academic year alongside one-off events. All events are free to all but require booking.'

'Founded in 2019 to promote research and teaching related to the social study of Outer Space and our relationship to the cosmos and the planet. The Centre aims to act as a catalyst for serious debate, via talks, exhibitions, film screenings and other events that help us explore the socio-political impact of space science and the wider human relationship to outer space.'

'The principal role of the Centre is to promote, coordinate and disseminate information relating to, the academic study of Central Asia and the Caucasus across the disciplines and to act as a resource for academic, governmental, non-governmental and business constituencies with an interest in Central Asia and the Caucasus. It does so through the research and publications of its staff, new teaching programmes, an established seminar series and special events.'

Annual Lecture, usually in late Autumn: 'All welcome'.

'Conway Hall is owned and operated by Conway Hall Ethical Society, a membership organisation and educational charity with a history spanning two centuries. The Hall hosts a wide variety of lectures, classes, performances, community and social events. It is renowned as a hub for free speech and independent thought. Hosting suffragettes, political radicals, scientists, philosophers, artists, performers; campaign, charities and other non-profit organisations.'

‘The First World War Aviation Historical Society’  ALERT ‘The Cross & Cockade International London meeting has renewed itself! Following the decision to end meetings on board HMS President, a group of members has decided to meet instead in local pubs. It's a similar format to the York meeting - no formal talks, just a group of like minded individuals discussing WW1 aviation over a pint of whatever takes their fancy.’

'Our department is one of the few in the country that combines Biological Anthropology, Social Anthropology, Material Culture and Medical Anthropology to give you a truly broad-based anthropology degree. The breadth and depth of this interdisciplinary approach is reflected in our teaching and research.'

'The department hosts a programme of research seminars by invited speakers and departmental staff. The seminars are open to all.' Enquire about attendance.

Extensive list of seminars and other events organized by the Department as well as by cognate Centres within UCL: 'Visitors are welcome to many of the events listed. However, could visitors from outside UCL please email the UCL contact (in the Speaker/Organiser column) to ensure that attendance is possible.'

'Each year the Department holds a Memorial Lecture and Research Poster Presentation Day, alternately the Barlow and Mildner memorial lectures.'

'We offer a rolling programme of events throughout theacademic year.'

'Scientific research and study has been a strong feature of UCL since its inception in 1826 and the Department is one of the top rated Physics departments in the country and the world.'

Calendar of public events organised or sponsored by the Department: 'A centre for the integrated study of science's history, philosophy, sociology, communication and policy, located in the heart of London. Founded in 1921. Award winning teaching and research.'

'Designer Bookbinders has a worldwide membership and welcomes new members from all backgrounds – binders, conservators, collectors, librarians, teachers, people from other crafts, and book-lovers in general.'

'The Library was established by the will of Dr Daniel Williams, the leading London nonconformist minister of his day, who died in January 1716. He left instructions for his trustees to house his collection as a public library and to make it available to nonconformist ministers, tutors and students in the City of London ... The Friends of Dr Williams’s Library was established in November 1946 ... Their stated intention was to "develop and make more widely known the very considerable research facilities of the Library". To that end, the Friends instituted a series of Annual Lectures to promote interest in, and support for, the Library’s collections.'

'Lectures, field visits and meetings to encourage interest in conservation.'

'The Education and Employers Taskforce and the Centre for Education and Industry at the University of Warwick have launched a research seminar programme in London ... All seminars are free. Lunch is provided. To register for a place please email ... '

Offer reasonably priced all-day seminars, open to members, plus occasional free seminars.

'The oldest society dedicated to the study of British ceramics and enamels. Members interested in ceramics at all levels of knowledge are always made welcome. Founded in 1927, we aim to advance knowledge by presenting new research on these subjects at our meetings and by publishing this research. The Circle`s worldwide membership embraces collectors, curators, archaeologists, potters, auctioneers, dealers, social historians and all those with an interest in the history of ceramics made in the British Isles.'

'The EGS was founded in 1886. It is the oldest learned society in the UK dedicated to things German, and, after the ones in Vienna and Weimar, the third oldest Goethe society in the world. The Society's chief aim is to promote the discussion and study of Goethe's works and ideas, through meetings, symposia, and publications ... The EGS is a learned society in the broadest sense of the term, and its members come from all walks of life. New members, guests and visitors are always welcome at our meetings.'

'The UCL Environment Research Domain builds on the previous work of the UCL Environment Institute and provides a platform for researchers to collaborate on cross-disciplinary activities which challenge and enrich our understanding of the world around us.'

Current Legal Problems Lectures 'They are public lectures and are free of charge.'

Range of events including occasional lectures and talks.

'The speaker for the annual George Orwell lecture series is selected in turn by the Department of English and Humanities and the Department of Politics. The subject of the lecture is left to the speaker, on the proviso that the topic should have been of interest to Orwell. The lecture is funded by the George Orwell Memorial Fund and is held in November every year.' Site also usually lists other Orwell-related events.

'The GHIL regularly holds seminars and lectures on topics of general interest to British and German historians. Seminars are usually held every second Tuesday at 5 pm during term time. Seminar papers are normally presented in English; knowledge of the German language is not necessary for participation.' Enquire about attendance.

Occasional lectures and talks, various days and times.

Have organized evening talks for adults. For most events: 'Free, there is no need to book'.

'Founded by H.M. Government in 1959 as The GB-USSR Association and, as re-named in 1992, The Britain-Russia & British East-West Centre, were a Non-Governmental organisation (NGO) generously funded by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) with the object of promoting contacts and understanding between the citizens of the USSR and the United Kingdom, in a spirit of friendship, frankness and objectivity ... The Membership and Meetings Section was re-launched in September 2002 as The Great Britain-Russia Society. It is run and funded entirely by its members. We are a separate legal entity, but we adhere to the ethos of our predecessor organisations.'

Occasional events, currently including an Annual Lecture and a Day School.

'Lectures start at 2.00 pm on Saturdays.'

'The Society holds four meetings a year in central London at which a paper on a Huguenot subject is read... The meetings provide members with the opportunity to socialise and meet other people with interests in common ... Lectures are open to members of the public free of charge, but names must be registered in advance with the Hon Secretary as places may not always be available.'

'The majority of Human Rights Consortium events are free and open to all.'

'Established as an independent research institute, IFS was launched with the principal aim of better informing public debate on economics in order to promote the development of effective fiscal policy ... IFS organises and participates in a large number of conferences, seminars and briefings each year.'

'Information on upcoming seminars, lectures, workshops and other events at The UCL Institute for Sustainable Heritage.'

Wide range of events, many not within scope but including a number of Lectures with such annotations as: 'Admission Free - All Welcome'. However, advisable to register interest in attending: 'The Institute of Advanced Legal Studies was founded in 1947. It was conceived and is funded as a national academic institution, attached to the University of London, serving all universities through its national legal research library. Its function is to promote, facilitate and disseminate the results of advanced study and research in the discipline of law, for the benefit of persons and institutions in the UK and abroad.’

Occasional events listed that are open to the public. Enquire about attendance.

'Our events diary, with more than 300 entries a year, makes us London's liveliest centre of engagement for stakeholders in education. High-profile speakers – including our own faculty, visiting academics, politicians and educationalists – keep the IOE at the heart of public debate.'

'Runs an active programme of lectures, seminars, conferences, symposia, reading groups and summer schools. Unless otherwise stated, events are free and open to the public.'

Very wide range of lectures, workshops, etc. listed. Arrangements vary, but frequently one reads such as: 'Attendance is free, but places are limited and offered on a first come basis'; 'IHR Seminars are free and open to all - advance booking is not required'; and so on. However, always prudent if you are able to register your interest in attending, rather than just turning up.

'Public Lectures, Symposia and Seminars are held throughout the academic year, where leading scholars from Europe, Israel and USA as well as the UK communicate the results of their research to scholars, students and the public, thereby creating the opportunity for regular exchange of ideas and interests.'

'ILAS occupies a unique position at the core of academic study of the region in the UK. Internationally recognised as a centre of excellence for research facilitation, it serves the wider community through organising academic events, providing online research resources, publishing scholarly writings and hosting visiting fellows ... The Institute of Latin American Studies hosts a broad range of seminar series throughout the academic year. These events are usually free and open to the public.'

'The Institute is home to six Centres, which foster research and interdisciplinary cooperation in their respective fields. The Centres' distinctive events and publications programmes complement and enhance the Institute's own work ... See our extensive calendar of lectures, colloquia, seminars and research training events covering all aspects of modern languages research.'

'The IMR is based at the University of London’s Senate House. Formerly part of the School of Advanced Studies, it is now supported by Royal Holloway, University of London.'

'The Institute's aim is to promote and facilitate high quality research in philosophy, making it available to the widest possible audience both inside and outside the UK's academic community ... The Institute's events are open to everyone. You do not have to be a member of the Institute, or a member of any university, to attend Institute events.'

‘Established in London in 1892 ... The object of the Society is to promote the appreciation of Irish literature and culture and to provide a forum for intellectual and social activities in connection with these interests ... We engage with cultural and community organisations for special member-only events. These include visits and talks at galleries, archives and other cultural venues.‘

'During the winter months, the London Area of the IRRS provides a welcoming forum for those who are interested in Irish transport, and in particular railways.'

Lectures and related events in wide-ranging programme. Usually: 'This event is free to attend but booking is essential'.

'Aims to promote the life and works of Dr John Snow, the pioneer of epidemiological method and celebrated anaesthetist. As outlined in the Constitution, the Society has a serious intent, publishing news, collecting facts and dates related to the life and works of John Snow and organising the Annual Pumphandle Lecture Series, but it also aims to provide a communication network for epidemiologists and those trained in the Snow tradition throughout the world.

'A week-long programme of free public events around a chosen law theme.'

Lecture series organised by the Leo Baeck Institute London in cooperation with the German Historical Institute London.

'Founded in 1979, originally known as GALHA, LGBT Humanists is a democratic, membership organisation based in the UK with members worldwide, promoting Humanism and LGBT equality ... We hold various events throughout the year. Our monthly meetings at Conway Hall have included speeches from various political and humanist figures.'

'The seminar meets at 5.15 pm on alternate Tuesdays.'

'A Forum of the Institute of Philosophy at the University of London’s School of Advanced Study. With lectures on topics in aesthetics and philosophy of art, LAF aims to stimulate philosophical reflection on art. Our events are free and open to all.'

‘We like to think and talk about strange and excluded things: from ghosts and UFOs to forgotten history and strange beliefs ... We're forteans, we're open minded and we welcome everyone online and at our meetings.’

'The society meets regularly to discuss every aspect of Materials from Ice Cream manufacture to the recent nanotechnology developments! All events ... start at 6.30 pm (unless otherwise stated) with tea and biscuits provided from 6 pm and mostly end with a light buffet. They are open to the public and free of charge.'

'We meet every month of the year except January and August ... Our meetings start at 6.00 pm and last for up to 2 hours. We have a very varied programme, with a meeting on the first (occasionally the second) Tuesday. We hear informal lectures or talks, generally with slides, from our own members or visiting experts ... Once a year, we have Members' Own Evening, at which we hear a number of talks from members who, while having something interesting to say, may not feel it warrants a full evening's talk.'

Society Meetings 'Doors open from 6pm. sales stand from 6.30pm, event begins at 7.30 and is finished by 10pm. There is no charge. Visitors are welcome, especially from other societies or if you buy something or join as a new member.Meetings are held monthly (except January, July & August)'.

'The London Philosophy Club holds free talks from some of the leading contemporary philosophers ... We also organise debates, socials, and a regular reading group. Our events are fun, accessible and interactive, and are all guided by our belief that philosophy improves people's lives and should be open to all. At the moment, we're the biggest philosophy club in the world ...'

'As well as selling books, the London Review Bookshop features events. Readings, discussions, talks and debates make the London Review Bookshop a vital centre for intellectual exchange.' Tickets usually £10; free wine after each event; should book ahead.

Significant programme of term-time lectures, many annotated with such as: 'Free and open to all with no ticket required. Entry is on a first come, first served basis'.

Monthly lunchtime meetings.

'Lectures in the history of cartography ... Admission is free and each meeting is followed by refreshments. All are most welcome.'

'The Gallery promotes the Transvangarde, the very best in contemporary art from around the planet, as well as maintaining a cultural hub in central London for poets, writers, intellectuals and artists, and hosts talks, performances and seminars.'

'Members receive three Programmes and three Newsletters a year, with details of eleven events of lectures, visits and trips for each year. We aim to cater for the wide range of interest of all our members, including social gatherings.'

Author Lunch Talks and related events, including the Annual Persephone Lecture.

'The Friends hold lectures, special events and social occasions throughout the year ... Lectures: non-members welcome.'

'PhilSoc usually holds seven meetings each academic year, in October, November, January, February, March, May and June (AGM). At most meetings, a full paper is read; other meetings take the format of a thematic symposium ... Membership is open to all and entitles members to attend meetings and receive the Society's publications.'

‘Reveals the surprising and fascinating story of the first social network and makes our extraordinary collections available and enjoyable for all. From interactive galleries to an immersive subterranean rail ride, modern research facilities to a wide-range of learning activities, The Postal Museum offers something for everyone, from all backgrounds and of all ages.’

Searchable programme includes details of Evening Lectures and other happenings covering: culture, history, literature, music, politics & current affairs, travel, etc. Best to book, modest charge.

'Radical Anthropology brings indigenous rights activists, environmentalists, feminists and others striving for a better world together with people of all ages who just want to learn about anthropology. There is always time for questions and discussion after each talk and there are good local pubs for those wishing to socialise into the evening.'

Monthly meetings, Monday evenings.

Winter monthly meetings, usually Saturday afternoons.

'The Royal African Society is Britain’s prime Africa organisation. Now more than 100 years old, its in-depth, long-term knowledge of the continent and its peoples makes the Society the first stop for anyone wishing to know more.'

Occasional public lectures.

'The Society promotes discussion of history by means of a full programme of public lectures.'