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'

'We hold six meetings in London on the second Saturday of every other month (February, April, June, August, October and December). The meetings offer a chance to talk to people in person and to listen to fascinating guest lectures.'

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 AA’s Public Programme is an extensive series of public events dedicated to contemporary architectural culture: exhibitions, members’ events, lectures, seminars, conferences, book launches and publications. Each year architectural theorists and practitioners, writers, performing artists, musicians and art historians are invited to speak at the AA. Whether as part of the series of Evening Lectures or Visiting Theory Seminars or Artist Talks, these events bring together different parts of the school and form an essential component of an AA education.'

‘Founded in 1880, meets fortnightly in London to hear and discuss talks given by leading philosophers.‘

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.

Regular early evening events during term for Members of the Society: 'Membership can be obtained in person at any of our events. Membership for the academic year is £5 and you will be provided with a membership card. Once a member, there is no charge to attend our regular lectures, and we will not charge for as many other events as is possible. We may be able to offer special rates for our other events and conferences ... So turn up, pay and become part of this exciting society. By the way, you do not have to be a Birkbeck student to join the EMS.'

‘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.'

'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.'

​

How it works:

'You come, mix and mingle with people with different interests. We start with an informal talk from the speaker introducing the topic. A short break allows glasses to be refilled before the beginning of a lively session of general disussion. Everyone will have the opportunity to ask questions! Also, a game related to the topic of the talk is proposed, in order to have fun and win Cosy prizes.'

‘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.’

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

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.'

Range of lectures: check details.

'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.'

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

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.’

'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.'

'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.'

‘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'.

'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.'

‘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.’

'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.'

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'.

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

‘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.

'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.'

'Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month between October and June, and are open to all.'

Organize a wide range of events, which are often annotated 'Free and open to everyone', but advisable to check first.

'The School of Life is a place to step back and think intelligently about central emotional concerns. You will never be cornered by dogma, but we will direct you towards a variety of ideas that will exercise, stimulate and expand your mind. You will meet other curious, sociable and open-minded people in an atmosphere of exploration and enjoyment ... In our programme of Special Events, we invite great performers, speakers and thinkers to share their stories, wisdom and experience. The emphasis is always on insights into emotional and psychological life ...'

Have organized a variety of public lectures.

'As a member you can attend our regular meetings, held every three months on Saturday afternoons in London, with occasional extra dates in other cities. You’ll hear talks from the country’s top astronomers, both amateur and professional, and meet fellow enthusiasts. There are special meetings from time to time. And if you can’t get to meetings, there’s a report published in Popular Astronomy and you can view videos of most meetings ... Every two years, we also hold a very popular, day-long Convention, usually at Cambridge, where you can see the work of the sections and hear talks about a wide variety of topics ... We arrange enjoyable weekend courses, too, at which you’ll get to meet other astronomers, hear talks and even observe, if it’s clear.'

Occasional lectures.

‘What’s On’.

Public Lectures 'Wednesdays at 4.30 pm in the Lecture Room ... Admission to all lectures is free ... The Warburg Institute of the University of London exists principally to further the study of the classical tradition, that is of those elements of European thought, literature, art and institutions which derive from the ancient world.'