Region: London

'Since its formation in 1858, the GA has actively promoted the study of geology to all who are interested in the past, present and future of the natural world. It is a friendly and inclusive organisation and welcomes everyone, regardless of the level of their knowledge ... The Association organises a series of illustrated evening lectures on a wide range of geological topics. These are held on the first Friday of the month in Burlington House ... Following the talk we would invite you to join us for a reception in the lower library with wine and nibbles.'

'At Humanists UK, we want a tolerant world where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We work to support lasting change for a better society, championing ideas for the one life we have ... We started out in 1896, and since then we’ve always been a growing movement at the forefront of social change. Today we’re trusted by over 70,000 members and supporters and over 70 local and special interest affiliates to promote humanism.'

'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).'

'Meetings are held from September to June, normally on alternate Thursdays. They are of two types: the first is of a formal nature, at which one or more papers are read accompanied by displays by individual members, and usually starts at 5 pm; the second consists of a display of stamps, postal history etc. in the frames contributed by one or more members, with or without a written paper. This meeting is open from 1 pm to 6 pm. Tea is served to members and their guests at all meetings ... It is not necessary for a prospective member to be an advanced philatelist.'

'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.'

'Founded in 1911 the Society of Genealogists (SoG) is Britain’s premier family history society. The Society maintains a splendid genealogical library and education centre in Clerkenwell in London.'

'We are now called The Arts Society, a name and brand that more clearly represents who we are and what we do. It communicates the broad nature of the lecture topics which now incorporate all the arts, and makes a strong statement about our role in the community and wider society. The monogram, with interlocking A and S, communicates a value at the heart of the organisation connecting people to the arts and to each other.'

The Section 'Affiliates' provides contact details for Groups and Affiliated Societies of the OSGB. In addition: 'We hold monthly meetings for those members who are able to come to London on a Saturday afternoon. Each meeting is different. There is usually an experienced speaker who may talk about travel, cultivation or any other subject related to orchids. Members bring their plants to display at the monthly table show which offers a chance to see a wide variety of orchids in flower. The plants are judged and awarded and there is a short discussion about their history, cultivation and merits ... Tea and coffee are available and members have a chance to chat with the each other and the guest speaker and ask the questions that have been bothering them for ages. "Why won’t my Phalaenopsis flower?" is the most common; no question is too silly to ask ...'

‘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.’

‘The Academy was founded in 2000 to provide a forum committed to open and robust public debate in which ideas can be interrogated, argued for and fought over. We organise intelligent public debates, on controversial topics, and most importantly challenge contemporary knee-jerk orthodoxies. One focus of our work is to ensure that new generations look behind the headlines and avoid over simplistic conclusions on difficult topics. We are especially concerned about the “dumbing down” of debate, and to this end we organise a range of high-profile public events.’ Events have included an annual Battle of Ideas Conference held in London in the Autumn.

'The Academy of Medical Sciences is the independent body in the UK representing the whole spectrum of medical science. Our mission is to ensure better healthcare through the rapid application of research to the practice of medicine ... We run a programme of events for a variety of audiences including Fellows, early career researchers, trainees, undergraduates and members of the public.'

'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.'

'Meets at 7.30 pm on the second Wednesday of each month from October until March ... Visitors welcome at all meetings ... Acton is now a suburb of West London about 5 miles from the centre, and well within the built-up area, but for the greater part of its history, consisted of only a small cluster of houses around the medieval Church of St. Mary's, providing refreshment for travellers on the road from London to Oxford; together with a smaller farming community at East Acton and a number of scattered farm dwellings ... The scene changed little until the 1840s when the village began to expand, but the greatest change began in 1859 when the Enclosure award, permitted the re-allocation of the strips in the common fields into blocks, releasing land for building the lower class housing required to keep up with the rapid growth of London, made possible by the extension of the suburban railways ...'

'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.'

'Established as a charity in 1964, we've been proud custodians of African culture and heritage in the U.K since ... We plan to champion the African thought leadership through talks, debates, conferences and broadcasts from a wide range of sectors including health, environment, technology, culture, politics and business. We want to be a hub for exchanging and developing ideas, and providing a distinctly African perspective on the world.'

'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'

'In 1950 the Academy was invited to take over the administration of the Reckitt Archaeological Trust (established by the late Mr Albert L Reckitt). As well as using the funds to support archaeological research, the Academy's Council also decided to establish a lecture. The lecture was first delivered in 1951.' Lecture held every 2-3 years: 'Registration is not required for this event. Seats will be allocated on arrival'.

Monthly talks in French, October to May, usually second Friday evenings at 7.00 pm.

Monthly talks in French.

Monthly Talks in French, September to June.

Monthly lectures, Tuesday evenings.

Series of evening talks on most Mondays: 'Doors open at 6.30 pm with Alternatives members enjoying priority entry. Seating is unallocated at our talks. Talks start at 7 pm and end at 8.30 pm. Talks usually cost £10' (and there are concessionary rates).

Aim is 'to advance the Christian religion, particularly by teaching members of the Anglican and Orthodox Churches about each other, in order to prepare the way for an ultimate union between them, in accordance with our Lord's prayer that "all may be one" ... The Association organises an annual Pilgrimage, an annual Constantinople Lecture, a summer Festival, as well as other events, which are open to members and their friends'.

'We meet three times a year in a London church for a lecture – these are usually held in early October, late January and June ... Lectures cover a variety of topics in the subject fields mentioned and are made accessible for those with different levels of expertise and knowledge.'

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’.

'Seminars are held on Tuesdays at 6.10 pm ... All talks are open to staff, students and members of the public ... Attendance is free and there is no need to book in advance.'

Evening meetings about every two months: 'A glass of wine and refreshments will be available.'

'In 2006 we began developing an agenda of events, placing a particular emphasis on the arts, culture and society of the Arab world. We now have a regular programme of events and activities ... In addition to our own cultural events, we are also able to publicise the events of like-minded organisations working in the field ...'

'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.'

Have organized an annual Architecture& series of winter evening lectures in conjunction with the Royal College of Art and the V&A.

'The Architecture Foundation's diverse and cross-disciplinary programme includes Events from film screenings to lectures and debates ...'

‘Brings together everyone interested in archives in or about London – users, practitioners and enthusiasts. Through the passion, experience and expertise of our members and guests we help people get more out of the documents, photographs and films that make up our capital’s rich archival heritage.’

‘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.'

‘Presents an inspiring collection of over 50,000 rare and beautiful pieces including art, antiques, jewellery and collectors’ pieces drawn from antiquity to the present day ... The Fair is part of House & Garden Festival alongside HOUSE, Spirit of Summer and GROW London ... In addition to this, leading experts will be speaking at the Interior Design Talk Series providing their insight and advice, as well as the opportunity to meet face-to-face in dedicated clinics.‘ Held Mid June.

'Art Historical London organizes Art History lectures, courses and events ... Small, friendly, informative, inexpensive and fun talks by experts for anyone interested in art and art history.'

Intensive programme of Lectures and other Events, covering a wide range of subjects; main series is mid-week, early evenings.

'We are a forum for all professionals working in the field of architectural conservation. Our current membership of more than 350 includes architects, surveyors, engineers, conservators, scientists, archaeologists, building performance experts, historians, government advisors, property and estate managers, and many other professionals ... We do this by regular meetings, lectures and discussions, site visits, and once a year a conference covering a topic of special interest. Most lectures and meetings are held in London, but local meetings of the Association may be organised by convenors in other parts of the country ... Non Members are welcome: please donate £5 on door.'

Occasional lectures, usually held at LSE. Most events advertised: 'The event is free and open to all with no ticket required'.

Usually weekly lectures, Monday evenings.

'The ACF London arranges, initiates, facilitates and supports about 150 events per year, half of which take place at the ACF’s own premises at 28 Rutland Gate, in the heart of Knightsbridge ... The ACF London is the Cultural Section of the Austrian Embassy in London and offers free admission to all of its events, which are organised in cooperation with Austrian and Austrian-based artists.'

‘Autograph’s mission is to enable the public to explore identity, representation, human rights and social justice through work produced by artists who use photography and film ... We produce an annual programme of exhibitions of still and moving image works created by selected artists at our Rivington Place galleries in Shoreditch ... Our popular events investigate how photography and film shed light on issues of identity, representation, human rights and social justice.‘

'The BADA Fair has become renown for its special events. Talks are given by well-known contributors to leading art publications, interior designers, historians and experts in art and antiques. Fashion shows have been hosted, tutored wine-tasting given and guided tours of the Fair lead by our distinguished exhibitors.' Usually held each year in March.

‘A world-class arts and learning centre, the Barbican pushes the boundaries of all major art forms including dance, film, music, theatre and visual arts.’

'Talks take place on the first Monday evening of the month between September and June, except January.'

'We meet each Thursday from 7.30 pm.'

'Unless otherwise stated, lectures are held on Thursdays ... beginning at 8 pm and are free to members. Visitors are very welcome and are asked to pay £2.'

Monthly winter meetings, Wednesday evenings.

'All lectures will be held ... on Monday afternoons at 3.00 pm.'

'We meet every Thursday from 8 pm ... The programme includes lectures from eminent photographers offering subjects which should interest almost everyone ... Remember non-members are welcome and can attend up to three events without obligation.'

'Since its inception in the 1940’s, The Barnet Society has organised a variety of events to stimulate, educate, agitate and entertain its Members. We hold a series of talks, walks, visits and events throughout the year ...'

Wide range of lectures and talks.

'Every year we arrange a wide range of events, visits to places of interest, talks on subjects of local interest or concern and some public meetings ... Most visits are open only to Society members and will usually be marked as private: where an event is open to the public it will be clearly indicated.' Venues vary.

'We meet every Wednesday from September to May ... Visitors are welcome at these meetings.'

Have organized an annual Betjeman Lecture plus occasional other talks and related events.

'The world’s only remaining home of Benjamin Franklin opened to the public for the first time on 17 January 2006, Franklin’s 300th birthday, as a dynamic museum and educational facility ... Today, the House brings Franklin’s time in London to life for visitors through the Historical Experience, Architectural Tours and an engaging calendar of events. Our vibrant, free education programme allows children to discover Franklin’s science and Georgian London in the building or in the classroom. Discover more!'

Monthly evening meetings.

Meetings second Monday of the month at 7.45 for 8 pm start.

'Meetings are held ... at 7.45 pm on alternate Fridays.'

'We meet every Monday (Bank Holidays excepted) at 7.45 pm.'

Occasional events, Thursday evenings.

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.’

Bishopsgate Institute offers a seasonal programme of cultural events including concerts, illustrated talks, topical debates and literary evenings. These take place in our historic library and Great Hall.' Usually a charge to attend; advanced booking required.

Occasional literary events.

'Our lectures take place ... on the third Friday of the month from October to May at 7.30 pm and during the summer we generally arrange at least one outing to a place of scientific or technological interest ... Our meetings are 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.‘

'Meetings consist of a programme of illustrated talks by guest speakers, which are held on the first Monday of each month from October to May ... at 8 pm.'

'Brent Museum has been collecting material about the history of Brent for over 50 years and we have over 10,000 objects in our collection. We have items which are thousands of years old but we also collect from the people living and working in Brent today so that our collection represent all communities, past and present. From oil paintings to toys and flapper dresses to tool boxes we collect objects which tell all of the fascinating stories of Brent and its people ... Over 400 objects from the museum collection can be viewed in Brent Museum’s permanent gallery in Willesden Green. This gallery tells the story of Brent from prehistory all the way through to the present day.'

Evening talks and lectures, usually monthly.

The Academy organizes over a score of Lecture Series, many referenced separately herein, plus Conferences, Panel Discussions, Workshops, etc.

'Through a popular and varied events programme which covers all aspects of film, television and new media, we give our audiences the chance to learn first hand from film and programme-makers, as well as games developers across a range of crafts and disciplines.'

Winter programme, usually first Wednesday of the month: 'Meetings are held at 5.00 pm ... Tea will be served at 4.30 pm ... Non-members are welcome to attend occasional lectures but are asked to make themselves known to the Hon. Director on arrival and to sign the visitors book ... New members are always welcome and applications are invited from anyone pursuing an interest in archaeology, art & architectural history, history and related matters, whether as an amateur or in a professional capacity.'

'Meetings are held at 7.30 pm on the fourth Wednesday of every month.'

'Meetings start at 7.30 pm and finish around 10.00 pm. They generally consist of illustrated talks of interest to both novices and experienced growers. Talks feature cultivation, propagation, a particular genus or group of plants and travelogues. Other attractions at meetings are a competitive table show and plant sales.'

'Meetings usually start at 7.30 pm, on the second Friday of each month, unless otherwise indicated.'

Meet '3rd Saturday of the month (unless indicated otherwise) ... 7.00 for a 7.15 pm start'.

'Meetings are held at 7.30 pm on the second Thursday of every month.'

Meets '3rd Friday of the month (unless indicated otherwise) ... 7.30 pm start'.

'The King’s seminars are an annual set of lectures organised by the BCMH which run from October to May ... The seminars take place on Thursdays at 5.15 pm ... They are open to the public.'

What's On 'Film seasons, premieres, previews, talks, interviews, special screenings and courses ...The BFI (British Film Institute) promotes understanding and appreciation of film and television heritage and culture. Established in 1933, the bfi runs a range of activities and services.'

Occasional evening meetings in Central London.

‘The UK’s only institution dedicated to advancing research and public education on Iraq in all areas of the arts, humanities and social sciences ... BISI has supported academic excellence and understanding of Iraq: funding projects, publishing vital research, organising conferences and public lectures, and re-training Iraq’s scholars and cultural heritage professionals ... Members of the public are very welcome to attend all BISI events.'

Have held occasional lectures and talks open to the public.

'The BIS holds regular Lectures and Meetings at the BIS HQ ... although occasionally, Lectures and Meetings can be held at other locations (dependent on the specific lecture or meeting).'

Annual Lecture, usually held at LSE: 'Attendance is free, and all are welcome!'

‘The national library of the United Kingdom and one of the world’s greatest libraries. Our collections include more than 150 million items, in over 400 languages, to which three million new items are added every year. We house books, magazines, manuscripts, maps, music scores, newspapers, patents, databases, philatelic items, prints and drawings and sound recordings.‘

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.‘

'BPF Public Events aim to create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere in which dialogue and discussion can flourish. We look to focus a Psychoanalytic or/and Jungian lens on the challenges of contemporary living and society.'

'London meetings are held ... at 5.00 for 5.30 pm on the second Wednesday of each month unless otherwise mentioned.'

'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 Society holds regular meetings and lectures and has been involved in sponsoring visits of Yemeni musicians to Britain, the recruitment of British teachers to work in Yemen, support for a medical clinic in Aden, a visit of Welsh musicians and craftsmen to Yemen, and support for publications and exhibitions.'

'We regularly hold events at our bookshop such as readings and book signings.'

'We meet twice per month on Wednesday evenings ... at 7.30 pm ... Meetings may be of several types, sometimes a visiting speaker or another society, sometimes a competition evening, sometimes an auction of members' material, also displays by members themselves.'

'We have regular meetings at the branch apiary and have a excellent lecture programme during the winter months at our club house. We publish a monthly newsletter on our Internet mailing list and on our website.'

Evening meetings, usually first Tuesday of the month.

‘Brompton Cemetery, consecrated by the Bishop of London in June 1840, is one of Britain’s oldest and most distinguished garden cemeteries. The cemetery is Grade I Listed on the Historic England Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, and all of the cemetery buildings are Grade II* Listed ... The Friends of Brompton Cemetery work to preserve this remarkable site as a model of an historic cemetery with an active role in modern society. We help to restore and maintain the cemetery’s buildings, monuments and landscape, and encourage their full use by those sympathetic to the importance, beauty, heritage and fragility of this significant cemetery. We offer visitors Sunday afternoon guided tours, group tours at any convenient time in the week, and a varied programme of events and activities.‘