the home of science, arts and inspiration
Spot The Wildian on Golborne Road - a planter inspired by the extravagant designs of Victorian terrariums. Part of RBKC's Bee Superhighway and the South Kensington Green Trail.
Heritage Open Days is England's largest festival of history and culture, bringing together over 2,000 local people and organisations. Places across the country throw open their doors to celebrate their heritage. This year, discover the RSS' Summer Exhibition and 10gram Challenge Exhibition alongside a fun educational resource which details how to create sculptural sweet treats out of cardboard and paper.
Kensington is embarking on a mission to rebrand and revitalise Kensington High Street. As part of London Design Festival two ‘creative crossings’ were unveiled to the public. This large scale geometric project, unveiled by Chelsie Giles, bronze medallist for Judo at the Tokyo 2020 Games, was designed by award-winning Artist Tokolo Asao.
Experience a mind-bending virtual trip into Wonderland... Curious Alice invites audiences to tumble down the rabbit hole and embark on a mind-bending trip into Wonderland through the playful dimension of virtual reality (VR).
CROWD is the Goethe-Institut’s international dance residency programme developed together with European partners in a time when we feel international sharing and human connection is needed more than ever.
Renate Sami's films oscillate between the poetic, the observational and the political. Her subject matters range from Holger Meins to a tree filmed over a year. The variety of the Berlin-based filmmaker's oeuvre can now be discovered in this first UK survey presented together with Open City Documentary Film Festival.
Say the word meadow and it immediately conjures up images of distant lazy days, the smell of hay and wildflowers, the sizzle of summer heat and the sound of the wind and crickets in long grass. Meadows are often portrayed as a natural habitat but that’s not quite the case. Find out what makes a meadow and why they are so important or better yet learn how to create your very own wildflower meadow.
How do we collectively honour, celebrate and remember significant sites of community, organising, and resistance in London? Ain Bailey’s new sound commission Atlantic Railton reflects on three sites of community organising in Brixton, South London that existed between the 1970s and 2000s; Brixton Neighbourhood Community Association, Big Up and Lambeth Women’s Project.
Discover South Ken has teamed up with Go Jauntly to produce a fun walk around South Kensington. Download the free app and explore the area as it comes alive with new installations and a green trail for visitors.
Rediscover some amazing galleries and more. Whether you're a space enthusiast or a codebreaking expert, choose a family trail to guide you around our inspiring free galleries this summer. You can also explore their programme of free family activities including storytelling sessions and interactive shows.
This display brings together for the first time contemporary artists from the Middle East and North Africa who work primarily in clay. The richness and inventiveness of their output reflects the vitality of current ceramic practice across the region.
Over the next few months there will be several planned closures at South Kensington Tube Station so here are all the dates you need to help you plan your journey to minimise disruption. There is more information available on the TfL website. This means that South Kensington station will be closed on the following dates: 4-12 Aug 4-5 Sept 18-19 Sept.
What better location to host a celebration this summer than overlooking the Serpentine in London’s largest Royal Park. Serving up a delicious range of food from their menu or on-site BBQ and a wide selection of cocktails, wines and beers on offer.
As part of our South Ken Green Trail, we've pulled together some fun activities for all the family. Using your imagination and everyday objects around your home, explore new ways to recycle and save our planet. Find out how to create spaces for nature on your windowsill, balcony or garden.
Just like us, bees and other pollinators need a drink of water to survive. Find out how to create a bee bath to give our bees a helping hand with this video from Mission Invertebrate.
Download Mission: Invertebrate's free activities and information sheets to see London’s green spaces in a whole new way. Whether you’re at home, in your local park or one of the incredible Royal Parks, these resources will help you and your family discover fascinating nature on your doorstep.
Let’s learn about the circular economy. Design a plantable card from recycled paper.
Bring nature to your doorstep by keeping wild birds fed with a home-made bird feeder. Follow our steps to build a seed feeder from a reused plastic bottle.
This simple bee hotel will provide a home for a variety of solitary bees, including red mason bees and leafcutter bees.
Taking apart gadgets such as a travel alarm clock, disposable camera, headphones, propelling pencil or a tv remote control is a great way to explore beneath the surface of objects, to find out and question how something works or how it was made.
No watering can? No problem. Follow this guide to make one out of an empty milk bottle.
Save floor space in your balcony or window allotment with these pretty hanging plant pot.
Find out how to create a wildflower meadow in your garden, or a meadow-in-a-pot for your front steps or windowsill.
Whether you have a garden, porch or windowsill, find out how you can choose plants that not only look fabulous but are loved by invertebrates.
What do you think is the fastest invertebrate in your garden? Why not go on a bug hunt to search for invertebrates? You could look under logs, flowerpots and around window sills to find invertebrates with different numbers of leg.
Invertebrates are all around, but sometimes we have to look quite hard to find them. Make it your mission to go out and search for these fantastic creatures. You’ll need to be fast, quiet and alert when hunting bugs, just like a real spy... keep ‘em peeled.
Many invertebrates help recycle dead organic matter including fallen leaves, dead plants and wood. They eat it and turn it into smaller particles for fungi and bacteria to turn into compost – for more plants and trees to grow in!
Help a very hungry buzz find her way to a flower to get a drink of nectar then colour her in to cut out and wear as a mask! Suitable for ages 3-11.
Learn about insect body parts by looking at the uk’s largest invertebrate: the stag beetle! Rebuild the beetle by drawing its pieces in the correct places. Suitable for ages 5-11.
It’s often assumed that if you plan your garden with biodiversity in mind, you’ll have to sacrifice on style. This absolutely doesn’t need to be the case. Mission: Invertebrate’s aim is to enrich wildlife in the Royal Parks - some of the busiest green spaces in London.
A key part of design is to look at the world around us and see how we can make it better. This could be making an invention that helps us in some way, or even something that makes life more fun
Growing native wildflowers is an excellent way to provide the right food for pollinating insects, making life better for your local wildlife. If you haven't got a lot of space, you can grow wildflowers in a container. You'll be able to enjoy a burst of colourful and interesting flowers while watching visiting bees, butterflies and other pollinators.
Seven simple ways to create a wildlife-friendly garden. The amount of wildlife on our doorsteps is astounding but is increasingly being lost to hard surfacing and paving. Wildlife needs a helping hand. and even small changes can help. Here are seven easy ways to make your garden a haven for wildlife.
Once you've mastered this simple technique, you'll find many uses for the flowers and leaves you press. Why not embark on a craft project and decorate special cards for family and friends, create beautiful art, or make a collection of herbarium sheets recording the plants growing in your garden?
South Kensington has plenty of great attractions for you to visit outside from boating on the Serpentine, walking tours around Albertopolis, Queen Caroline's temple, the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, ice cream in Kensington Gardens, a trip to Princess Diana's Memorial Playground and so much more....
Boost your family's wellbeing with a magical mystery nature tour. Time in nature is essential for keeping us healthy and happy, even through winter's colder, darker months. Explore some of the key reasons why and venture out for some nature therapy.
As the UK prepares to host COP26, the venues here have a programme of thought-provoking and inspiring events and exhibitions exploring the road to a greener future.
Find something you couldn’t live without; create an interesting shadow. Students can follow their curiosity and work together to complete the challenges while exploring the fascinating world around them.
From the end of July to mid-October, South Kensington is coming alive with exciting new installations and a green trail for visitors. Pop-up nature hubs and installations created by architects, artists and garden designers will leave you buzzing with new ideas and inspiring visions for a greener future.
Crochet your own Sophie the Stegosaurus with an online class from TOFT. You will receive everything you need to make your dino, including wool, stuffing, crochet hook, sewing-up accessories and pattern, as well as expert tuition. During the workshop you will learn how to read a crochet pattern, start and finish each body part and sew them all together.
Delight the little one with a sensory storytelling class designed to boost their development and nurture a love for books. And afterwards, don't miss the chance to explore the rest of the Museum with a ready-written self-guided tour.
Choose your side as three DJs do battle over separate wireless channels, playing the best in pop, rock and party classics. Don a headset and carry on the party into the night in the spectacular Hintze Hall.
Nature is essential for human existence, whilst habitats and species are integral to the landscapes, history and sense of place of the Royal Parks. However, accelerating Climate Change and biodiversity loss is currently harming both human well-being, and the landscapes of the parks. Find out how you can help.
Have you ever wanted to have a sleepover with a giraffe? Or spend the night camped beneath a blue whale? This unique sleepover gives kids aged 7 to 11 the chance to explore the Museum after dark while taking part in fun and educational activities.
As you walk up the steps towards the Hall’s new outdoor terrace café, take a look either side - new planting reflects the site’s Victorian history when the Royal Horticultural Society’s conservatory stood here. The café is open to all offering coffee, wine, beer or a light bite.
One of the greatest city parks in the world covering 142 hectares with over 4,000 trees, a large lake, a meadow and further ornamental flower gardens, all here in the home of London’s arts and science district.
Formal avenues, magnificent trees, ornamental flower beds, and wildflower meadows outside Kensington Palace make this a stunning end to our trail as well as home to the Princess Diana Playground, the Italian Water Gardens and the Albert Memorial.
Walk in the footsteps of royalty in the beautiful gardens of Kensington Palace. The historic Sunken Garden is resplendent with white and pastel flowers to provide a picturesque setting for a new statue of Diana, Princess of Wales, unveiled to commemorate her 60th birthday.
These striking Augmented Reality (AR) creatures encourage you to reconsider your relationship with spiders – moving you from fear to protection. Two giant AR spiders lurk outside the Gallery and if you share a photo of a real spider or web, you will be able to interact with a third!
Outside the Serpentine South Gallery, Al-Maria' sculpture is inspired by a dandelion. Stand beneath and listen to the sounds activated by wind and movement.
The borough is buzzing thanks to the Bee Superhighway which aims to protect and enhance habitats by increasing wildflower and pollinator-friendly planting throughout Kensington and Chelsea.
Just behind Exhibition Road in Prince's Gardens, artist Natalie Taylor’s bed of wildflowers spells out a call for more urban meadows and creates the perfect hub for buzzing insects. Commissioned by Goethe-Institut.
Outside the Science Museum, insects and people are connected with, a nest-like structure which is layered with medicinal plants creating a link with Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries at the Museum and providing a hive of discovery, education and biodiversity.
Opposite the V&A, meander through a wildflower vertical meadow which connects the architecture of Exhibition Road to the depths of the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park through a hydroponic algae canopy. The Algae Meadow explores how we care for and enhance biodiversity in an urban setting through careful use of local resources, material and plant ecologies.
Recharge and cool down in the heart of the V&A. A place for kids to paddle in the courtyard shallow pool or grab a drink while surrounded by summer planting and stunning Victorian architecture. Admission is free but book tickets online.
Stop outside The Natural History Museum (past the Exhibition Road entrance) and see a small area of green space on Museum Lane transformed into a pollinator meadow as part of RBKC’s Bee Superhighway. See the flowers as they start to emerge and provide essential support for our city pollinators such as bees, butterflies and hoverflies.
In 2019 John Kampfner, author and broadcaster, released a new book "Why the Germans Do it Better: Notes from a Grown-Up Country" As part of their Talking Podcast series with Urban Radicals and Natalie Taylor, the Goethe-Institut shared Kampfner's lecture with the same title, and yes it made them a bit uncomfortable too.
Connect is an exhibition by architect, Tokolo Asao, whose graphic art, Harmonized Chequered Emblem, was chosen for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic & Paralympic Garmes' emblem. It is a wonderful collection of lacquer, porcelain and kiriko cut glass, subtly captured throughout by the colour ai, Japanese indigo, a durable and weather-resistant colour which stays true over time.
Created by Serpentine Artists-in-Residence Jacob V Joyce and Rudy Loewe, the pack features illustrations of BIPOC (Black/Indigenous/People of Colour) environmental campaigners from around the world alongside a series of creative prompts.
Explore the relationship between the wood designs of architect, Alvar Aalto, and the forests of his native Finland, as part of Serpentine’s ongoing design research with Formafantasma.
Learn how to make art in the metaverse. A series of artist-led workshops focused on artmaking in the metaverse, in collaboration with arebyte.
As part of the Urban Tree Festival, The Royal Parks invited school students to get creative and explain both the importance of trees and the impact climate change is having on them.
With the climate crisis more urgent than ever, The Royal Parks’ Learning team and partners are playing a vital role in raising awareness and encouraging individuals to do all they can to be a hero for nature.
Aziza Jaffer is a Bollywood choreographer and dance instructor in Bujumbura, Burund, who teaches dance, and through dance hopes to create awareness of the consequences our actions have on the environment.
Music and performance return to Serpentine Live encounters and performances in music, poetry, dance and more in the Serpentine Pavilion on selected nights throughout the summer.
Get ready to fall in love with Kensington and Chelsea again this summer post-lockdown. They’re celebrating what the borough has to offer with exciting events and activities taking place from June to September and you’re invited to join in the fun. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, from parks, high streets and museums, to libraries, local businesses and more.
Sophie Kemp is a young sculptor and Royal College of Art 2020 graduate who likes to use “bright, shonky, hand-made materials”. Her large-scale works combine a sense of humour and the absurd. Inspired by iced gem biscuits.
The Goethe-Institut London is offering free space for cultural practitioners and community groups in their South Kensington building. They hope to welcome as many artists, makers and groups as possible; however, space is limited and available on an application basis. If you are seeking a room for rehearsing, working, writing, imagining, reading, thinking, planning or meeting please reach out to them.
Soak up the sunshine and take in spectacular views of a London landmark. The Royal Albert Terrace is now open to all visitors during the day, and is the perfect place to relax with a coffee, beer or light bite from their Door 12 Café Bar.
Wildlife crime is one of the biggest illegal businesses in the world. In a Natural History Museum podcast, discover some of the most shocking, sensational and sinister crimes committed against the natural world, and hear from the people working to end them.
Dawnosaurs is a free event for children with neurodiverse conditions (including autism and other sensory processing difficulties) to enjoy the Museum with their families and siblings, free from the hustle and bustle of the general public. Visitors have access to a wide range of galleries and activities, supported by experienced, autism-aware facilitators. This event is best for children aged five to 15, and siblings are welcome.
The much acclaimed Ciné Lumière offers a wonderful choice of movies for the whole family to enjoy together, from the recently released Cruella to movies for the youngest family members, The Reason I Jump, and relaxed screenings tailored for children with sensory difficulties.
Explore the history of Hyde Park through the decades, from the notorious criminals that met their untimely end at the Tyburn Tree, the inception of Speakers' Corner and the park's instrumental role during WW1.
The V&A has opened a new permanent gallery exploring how design shapes how we live, work, travel, communicate and consume. The gallery includes Margaret Calvert and Jock Kinneir’s iconic British road signage system, Kim Kardashian’s Selfish book and Nike’s Nigeria football shirt for the 2018 World Cup.
During lockdowns, more than 250 of the Royal Society of Sculptors' members worldwide created the bronze sculptures in this exhibition, using just 10 grams of modelling wax, which were then cast into bronze. The project is a creative response to the time of uncertainty and isolation caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The 2021 Summer Exhibition has been curated by Sigrid Kirk, inspired by the possibility of a new exuberant era for the arts. Drawing a parallel between the 1920s and 2020s, Sigrid looks to the years following World War I and the 1918 flu pandemic as inspiration for a manic flight into sociability.
The Great Exhibition² is an innovative new STEM project, delivered by Imperial College London and Big Ideas, inviting young people across London to enter their own ‘Incredible Innovations’ for a chance to showcase them at The Great Exhibition Road Festival.
The Royal Parks is launching a campaign urging visitors to ‘Help Nature Thrive’ in some of the capital’s largest and busiest green spaces. Hyde Park attracts almost 13 million visits a year. Its popularity results in high volumes of wildlife feeding, which is upsetting the park’s delicate ecosystem.
As the Hall reopens they're giving everyone the chance to win a ticket to their 150th anniversary gala. Become a VIP for the night or live the full Royal Albert Hall experience by entering their 150th Raffle. Tickets cost £5 each.
The Tokyo 1962 Olympic games, is often seen as a turning point for Japan. This exhibition explores the pioneering design of a group of young Japanese designers and architects who harnessed the opportunity to reframe the country’s profile and tell a fresh story to the world.
Book your free timed entry ticket to the Natural History Museum and explore the nation’s finest collection of natural history specimens.
Book your free timed entry ticket to the V&A and spend your day exploring their miles of galleries or dip into the exciting array of exhibitions and displays. Their café and shops are also open.
Don't forget to pre-book for your free entrance ticket to access both free displays and paid exhibitions.
Experience Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in concert in 2022 as part of the Royal Albert Hall’s Films in Concert series. Return of the Jedi (1983) sees Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Princess Leia and co. joined by Jabba the Hutt, Yoda and the Ewoks in an adventure across the galaxy as Darth Vader prepares to unleash the final blow to the Rebel Alliance.
Experience The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring in concert in 2022 as part of the Royal Albert Hall’s Film in Concert series. Peter Jackson’s award-winning epic fantasy adventure, based on the J.R.R. Tolkien novels, follows a hobbit named Frodo Baggins, who finds himself in the possession of the all-powerful One Ring, and the fellowship formed to take it to Mount Doom to be destroyed.
The Harry Potter™ film concert series returns to the Royal Albert Hall for the fifth instalment of J.K. Rowling’s classic saga. Relive the magic while the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra performs Nicholas Hooper’s unforgettable score live as Harry™ and friends soar across the big screen in high-definition.
The Final Fantasy VII Remake Orchestra World Tour is an electrifying new concert based entirely on the highly anticipated and groundbreaking game from SQUARE ENIX. Experience all-new symphonic arrangements based on composer Nobuo Uematsu’s rendition and the Final Fantasy VII Remake theme song Hollow.
Experience cinema’s most iconic films with the score performed live by an orchestra in the spectacular surroundings of the Royal Albert Hall.
From the rare metals in our phones to the cotton in our t-shirts, everything we use starts off as a part of nature. But with dwindling resources and escalating levels of pollution, is it time to rethink the resources we use?
The catastrophic effects of burning fossil fuels are already being seen in melting Arctic ice and raging wildfires. How can we create a greener, cleaner future and start to heal the planet?
The diets of the world's wealthiest nations are putting the planet in peril, so what are the solutions for a greener, more sustainable food system that could make us - and the planet - healthier?
A free coding session. You and your family can choose what you want to create, go at your own pace, and decide how you like to work—on your own or teamed up. From total beginners to programming experts, everyone is welcome.
If your child has ever wanted to explore the museum after dark, or if the idea of spending the night in one of our iconic galleries fills them with excitement, then they’ll love Astronights, a sleepover for children. With workshops, shows and activities—and breakfast and an interactive science show to boost your morning energy—it will be a night they never forget.
With never-before-seen footage and the latest underwater filming techniques, this epic documentary transports you to the farthest reaches of this majestic land and reveals that what happens there affects every single one of us.
Following a major revamp, the Science Museum's popular IMAX cinema has now re-opened. Enjoy heart-pounding audio, awe-inspiring images and immersive 3D shots on a screen the size of four double decker buses.
The Royal Geographical Society is working in partnership with BBC Radio 4 on a radio series that showcases 39 ideas to relieve the stress that climate change is placing on the Earth. Presented by environmental journalist and Society Fellow, Tom Heap, each 15 minute programme features an expert who will provide practical, feasible and carbon-cutting advice.
Make the most of this wonderful Indian summer and enjoy the great outdoors at Serpentine where the 20th architecturally designed Pavilion is on display and a host of events in their galleries from James Barnor to Ain Bailey.
My Christmas Orchestral Adventure returns in 2021 and Albert’s Orchestra is poised and ready for a magical journey through classical music. Oh no! Father Christmas has lost his map on a practice run of his delivery route! Thankfully Albert's trusty ensemble has found it but they need your help to return it to him ahead of the big day!
Family favourite The Muppet Christmas Carol will be screened with live orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall as part of our 2021 Christmas season. This show will take you on a magical journey through the classic Charles Dickens story performed by the Muppets.
The LFA, V&A and Discover South Kensington have launched a new competition for an innovative series of installations supporting biodiversity and the recovery of London’s arts and sciences district in South Kensington. This initiative is supported by the Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851.
Even the most ordinary objects have extraordinary stories to tell. Explore the past, present and future of the everyday things in your home, hosted by BBC Radio 5 Live's host Nihal Arthanayake. From bath toys to sticky tape and vacuum cleaners to the microwave oven, Nihal reveals how they changed science—and our world.
Explore the relationship between fashion designer and royal client. Featuring items from the archives of some of the most celebrated royal couturiers of the 20th century, alongside the glittering gowns and stylish tailoring created for three generations of royal women, the exhibition also includes the wedding dress of Diana, Princess of Wales.
Can carbon capture help us fight climate change? The Science Museum's latest exhibition explores the cutting-edge technologies being developed to trap carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
This exhibition will explore master goldsmith, Carl Fabergé – whose internationally recognised firm symbolised Russian craftsmanship, luxury and elegance – and the Anglo-Russian relationship which saw the opening of a London branch in 1903.
Head to the Science Museum website to book your free admission tickets and explore their incredible galleries and exhibitions this summer.
The Royal Albert Hall can't wait to throw open their doors and welcome everyone back to toast their 150th birthday! Spanning two years of celebrations, they'll have major commissions from British artists, headline performances from musical legends, and events showcasing the next generation of talent from around the globe.
This summer, the stunning Kensington Gardens will host Van Gogh Alive, ‘the world’s most visited immersive, multi-sensory experience’ that exhibits the life and work of the seminal Dutch artist.
A fun food-based activity to keep kids entertained at home. Create a colourful caterpillar, watch cress grow and eat the tasty results. Follow the simple instructions to transform eggshells and cress seeds into a caterpillar. There are hundreds of types of caterpillar in the UK to choose from and the Natural History Museum team have highlighted a selection of interesting ones for inspiration.
From graphic design to fashion, architecture to activism, this edition of the Prize will celebrate contemporary design inspired by Islamic tradition. The eight designers hail from India, Iran, Lebanon, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and the UK.
As part of this month’s focus on the crafts of the Tōhoku region in north-eastern Japan, why not download Japan House London's worksheet and design your own "little monk"!
Hear from the key women shaping the future of South Kensington’s cultural sector in this panel discussion celebrating International Women’s Day. From starting a new urban nature movement at the Natural History Museum to a £40 million state of the art redevelopment of the Royal College of Music, join an all-female panel to discuss how women are re-shaping Albertopolis.
This free, evolving display explores how humans have transformed the natural world. Through over 40 objects chosen by Museum scientists, they reveal the consequences of our actions and examine some of the solutions that could help mend our broken planet. The display opens in three stages. From 21 May The Food We Eat, 23 July The Products we Use and from 20 September The Energy we Consume.
From ancient Chinese ceramics to Alexander McQueen evening dresses, take an incredible journey through 5000 years of human creativity with the V&A's online collections.
Taking on the role of teacher can feel overwhelming but Kensington Palace has got some great ideas to help you teach. Here are five top history resources that will keep your kids learning AND smiling while you're staying home together. Five brilliant history resources for home schooling from a Tudor servant during the reign of Henry VIII to being locked up in the Tower of London. Parental participation optional!
Why not introduce the youngest members of your family to French with the Institut français' bilingual nursery rhyme classes. Easy and relaxed, they will instil your children with confidence through the power of play. This week it's all about body parts. So let’s make learning fun!
Alexandra Daisy Ginsberg is designing a garden for birds and bees and other pollen-carrying species. Ginsberg has developed a special algorithm that optimises garden designs – including plant species and layout – for pollinators rather than humans. This will result in a new outdoor garden in Cornwall and a website where you can replicate the design using the same algorithm.
The V&A is launching Explore the Collections, a new digital platform that enables everyone from around the world to search, explore and discover over 1.2m objects from the museum’s collections. This new online experience forms a key part of the V&A’s goal to revolutionise access to national collections, which will culminate in their new collections and research centre at V&A East – an entirely new cultural experience and the first of its kind in the UK.
Led by contemporary artists Laurelie Rae and Ayesha Gamiet, this online course will teach students how to analyse, draw and paint motifs and patterns, exploring different techniques and colour palettes. Each session takes inspiration from the beautiful examples of Islamic Art found in Leighton House.
'Calling at the Sambournes' is a visual exploration into the private life and work of Victorian illustrator, Edward Linley Sambourne (1844 - 1910). Curated by art, history and photography experts, the first short film presents Linley as a ‘genius photographer’ and includes a beautiful demonstration of the cyanotype process that he would have followed in his Kensington home.
The Museum houses an astonishing collection of over 80 million specimens spanning everything from meteorites to mice. But what does it take to look after one of the world's most important natural history collection during lockdown? And who is going to look after the flesh-eating beetles?
The V&A's Sustainable Exhibitions For Museums Network (SEFM) has recently joined up with The Happy Museum to look at how the museum sector can respond to the challenge of creating a more sustainable future.
The V&A is staging its first Africa Fashion exhibition, which will be as eclectic and varied, diverse and dynamic as its people. It will tell a story of fashion as a self-defining art form; a kind of movement culture that goes beyond individual garments to encompass attitude, gesture, style.
Step into an online world full of fantastic real-life and magical beasts. There are highlights, stories and games galore. Walk around the exhibition from home with a 360° Google Streetview with Google Arts & Culture.
Featuring a collection of architectural designs for dogs by world-class architects and designers such as Ban Shigeru, Kuma Kengo, Itō Toyō and Sou Fujimoto, the Architecture for Dogs virtual exhibition explores architecture and design that can be joyful for both dogs and their human companions.
Meet Ai-Da, a humanoid robot artist who can draw and engage in lively discussion. Whose ‘self-portraits’ use artificial intelligence to open up questions about human identity and creativity. Explore a series of self-portraits created through a blend of Ai-Da's brushstrokes, AI and the human hand, and her first prototype robotic arm.
Know your Air Jordans from your Air Force 1s? Step up and discover the footwear phenomenon that has challenged performance design, inspired new subcultures and shaken the world of fashion
The V&A welcomes you back with a host of new exhibitions and displays. Book your free timed-entry and get ready to explore seven miles of galleries in the world's leading museum of art, design and performance.
The Natural History Museum's virtual tour allows you to explore 14 exhibitions and access 300,000 specimens. Zoom in on the tiny details of the main hall's gilded ceiling or take a closer look at the marine reptiles discovered by Mary Anning. Enjoy a day at the Museum without even having to leave your home!
Treat the whole family to a Wonderlab's pass for a year’s worth of mind-blowing science. Fuel your child's imagination and give them the gift of wonder to the most spectacular interactive gallery in the world. Revealing the beauty of the science and maths that shape our everyday lives, this unmissable experience will ignite their curiosity and inspire them to see the world around them in new and exciting ways.
Be part of something big and become a Museum Member. Your support helps the Natural History Museum work for a future where people and planet thrive - and you'll enjoy colossal benefits!
How are London’s leading cultural organisations adapting for the future? Catch up on a thought-provoking panel discussion with leading voices from South Kensington’s cultural quarter via the.ismaili/tv
Each fortnight, our newsletter is packed with things to do whether online or here in South Ken - there are so many places to explore, hidden gems to discover, experiences to enjoy, food to feast on and so much more.
Join us for a celebration of science and the arts. Discover the Festival at home with our new exhibition, Fantasies of Exhibition Road, and a year-round digital events programme for all ages, featuring talks, workshops, interviews and more each month.
If you would like to keep up to-date with everything that is happening at our amazing science and arts institutions in South Ken, why not sign-up to our weekly newsletter. Bursting with great content, you'll be spoilt for choice. Every fortnight, there's something different to see and do, from fantastic new exhibitions and wonderous collections to unique, one-off events to tantalise and excite.
This exhibition showcases a selection of platinum prints, available to purchase, made from the newly digitised glass and celluloid negatives of the 1921 British Mount Everest Reconnaissance Expedition.
Create your own robot and help it overcome future world problems with the Science Museum’s new augmented reality app. Created in partnership with 42 Kids, this exciting new skills-building app combines a series of fun challenges and the latest AR technology to help you think like a scientist. Recommended for ages 10–12. Download for free.
The Maria Lassnig Foundation and the Serpentine Galleries are delighted to announce that the 2021 Maria Lassnig Prize is awarded to UK-based Ghanaian artist Atta Kwami. A comprehensive monograph publication and a public art commission will be launched in 2022.
Making instant ice-cream is just one of the activities on the Science Museums website to try at home. You can also take a virtual tour via Google Streetview, let a curator guide you round the galleries, explore online exhibitions, play games and so much more.
Being in the fresh air and close to nature is crucial for mental and physical wellbeing. Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park are open during lockdown, and this time playgrounds and outdoor catering will stay open too. If you’re not nearby, there’s plenty of ideas on the Royal Parks website to try at home or in your local green spaces.
South Kensington's museums and galleries might be temporarily closed for a month but their online shops are still open and bursting with great ideas for Christmas presents. It’s a great way to support these charities at this difficult time. So put your feet up, relax and unwind with a little retail therapy!
Decorate your home with exquisite Christmas ornaments inspired by all the historic royal palaces and celebrate 'the most festive time of the year!' with their perfect gifts. Beautifully designed Christmas cards, advent calendars, plus a range of unique stocking fillers to tempt.
With Christmas just around the corner, the Natural History Museum has hand-picked a selection of presents perfect for lovers of the natural world. Choose from ranges that promote sustainability, products that support communities or unique experiences - all with nature in mind.
If you're looking for something different, the V&A shop showcases a wide range of designs inspired by the museum's collections and exhibitions. Beautiful prints from the recent Kimono exhibition, extraordinary designs from Filthy Lucre, and for every fan of Alice in Wonderland, a unique publication of beautiful illustrations from Peter Blake, Salvador Dali and Ralph Steadman.
Chosen by the V&A's African Heritage Gallery Guides, this selection of extraordinary objects invites you to take a closer look at European depictions of race, enslavement, pride, freedom, equality and activism.
The most prestigious global environment prize in history is being launched today by Prince William with the Aga Khan Development Network as a Founding Partner. The Earthshot Prize aims to encourage large-scale change over the next 10 years — a critical decade for the Earth. To find out more visit
The UK’s most popular classical show returns to the Royal Albert Hall in November 2020! No other show presents such a magnificent combination of the very best in classical music and state of the art technology. Ranging from a flood of pure white light to electrifying multi-coloured laser displays, the dazzling special effects bring to life the scenes and moods evoked by each glorious piece changing the way you experience classical music forever.
Explore the 100-year history of the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance. Discover a host of costume, designs, film and unique material from the last century including shoes worn by Dame Darcey Bussell DBE at her 2007 farewell performance.
Footways London’s guide reveals quiet and characterful walking routes. Discover beautiful streets in Kensington at a different pace.
See South Kensington in a whole new light as it is transformed by a selection of artists re-imagining spaces along Exhibition Road in Albertopolis, where the Great Exhibition Road Festival takes place. The artists were inspired by conversations with scientists at Imperial College London on mental health and wellbeing research to create digital dreams of these iconic places.
My Dino Mission AR is aimed at 7-10 year olds and enables budding young palaeontologists to help a stranded dinosaur get back to its own time period many millions of years ago. Combining the latest augmented reality technology with STEM skills, children can recognise a dinosaurs’ species, what it eats, likes and needs to survive. Young explorers can care for and capture fun photos of themselves interacting with their new dinosaur friend in the backdrop of their home or back garden
Go on a small safari with a handy guide to the minibeasts that live in the Wildlife Garden and their habitats. Then, complete the NHM's leaf bingo by spotting fabulous foliage in the Museum's outdoor space. There's an incredible variety and volume of life in the garden just waiting to be discovered.
For over 300 years, steam has been the driving force behind the working factories, shipping and railways that are essential for trade. Even now, steam turbines generate the majority of the electricity we use every day, both at home and at work. See the huge, red Burnley Mill engine in action.
Are you ready to go on an adventure? This trail takes you on a journey through V&A galleries, exploring some of the incredible cultures and traditions you can see. You will discover objects that are hundreds of years old, uncover secret meanings behind animals and colour in art, and learn about some of the wonders of the museum, from an emperor's throne to dragons, from plaster casts to wigs!
Becoming a master craftsman took years of hard work. Beginning as an apprentice you then became a journeyman, often travelling for miles around the country. Eventually, you might join a guild as a master craftsman. Can you become a master of your trade? Start the game as an apprentice and test your skills.
Use objects from around the home to help you create your own story. Then design the costumes and sets, and bring it to life! Take a look at the objects in the V&A collections for more inspiration. Designed for ages 7 and up.
Play with objects, artworks and your favourite animals in these creative drawing challenges designed for ages 7 and up. Start off by sketching a creature in clothes, and then create your own funky critter.
Combine a German film, language lesson or a visit to the library at the Goethe-Institut London with a visit to Stein’s Berlin restaurant. The restaurant offers a journey through all of Germany's kitchen in a well-designed contemporary and cosy atmosphere. For your safety during the Covid-19 pandemic, Stein’s Berlin has introduced air-sanitising equipment and is frequently updating their opening hours.
Celebrate science and the arts at home with a year-round programme of online events from organisations across South Kensington. This month. peek behind the curtain with a magician helping surgeons develop new skills and explore how arts engagement affects mental and social wellbeing.
A fortnightly online talk series on cultivating care for the world beyond our lifetimes. 2020 is a poignant reminder that we need longer-term thinking now to tackle the existential risks we face and create a better world for future generations. It will bring together leading thinkers and doers from art, culture, philosophy, science, technology, law, finance and politics to take a longer view. Speakers will explore how engaging with the long-term can change the way we act in the short term.
From great exhibitions to debates with experts, and fun activities to try at home, there’s so much more to discover here.
Explore this cultural district and discover the history of the area with this free walking tour from Go Jauntly, curated by the Royal Geographical Society as part of the programme for Kensington + Chelsea Art Week.
Revealing the beauty of the science and maths that shape our everyday lives, this unmissable experience will ignite your curiosity, fuel your imagination and inspire you to see the world around you in new and exciting ways.
The Institut français has made it so easy to sign up and learn French. They've even extended the starting date to October. You can learn with your own tutor or with a friend or in a group. The possibilities are endless. And if you book now they're offering an early bird 10% discount. There's no excuse!
Planning a visit to the museums in South Kensington? What better way than by walking - safe, easy and now even more enjoyable with Footways' fantastic new walking map. Not just any map but a profusion of interesting streets woven together across London.
First to feature in Japan House London's new travel series, is the Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum, an interactive open-air space in western Tokyo featuring preserved buildings from the Meiji period. Take a look at a wonderful selection of Japan's culture from
The Ismaili Sounds is pleased to present Calmate, performed by Hip-Hop artist Fidah, who in this song explores the balance between faith and world, and encourages open conversation on the existential questions of life.
Gentle giant or fierce meat-eater: which dinosaur shared your habits? Do you think you're more like a Tyrannosaurus Rex? Or a Sauropad? Or maybe even a Raptor? Take the Natural History Museum's quiz and find out who you really share your habits with!
The Crystal Palace dinosaurs might look comically incorrect, but they hold an important place in the history of palaeontology and at the time of construction in 1854 were as accurate as was possible based on the scientific data available. But just how much did Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins and his scientific advisors get right and wrong about these prehistoric reptiles?
Back by popular demand, Playful Prints! Discover how prints were made before photocopiers and printers were invented, then have a look at the V&A's fantastic collection of prints (which go back over 600 years) to fire your imagination. And if you want to try something really different, have a look at woodcut prints
Exploring its origins, adaptations and reinventions over 157 years, this immersive and theatrical show charts the evolution of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland from manuscript to a global phenomenon beloved by all ages.
The digital artwork “Earth Speakr” by Olafur Eliasson on the occasion of the German EU Council Presidency invites children to speak for the planet – and adults to listen to what they have to say.
An international team of astronomers from Cardiff University and Imperial College has discovered a rare molecule – phosphine – in the clouds of Venus that could indicate the presence of life.
Discover the magic of the parks in the palm of your hand! Their free scavenger hunt game for your mobile phone takes you on an adventure through some of London’s most popular parks. Move at your own pace and discover interesting sights and uncovering photo challenges, amazing facts and games for all ages to enjoy.
Do you live, work, study or visit Kensington & Chelsea and want to explore a new cultural corner in the borough? Take a look at their new One Year Culture Plan! They have over 50 ambitions including digital programs, from investing £175,000 in the delivery of the digital Notting Hill Carnival to supporting Kensington + Chelsea Art Week, working with local artists and creative studios for its annual public art trail - and the launch of their first ever Culture Night on 2nd October.
Café Tangerine - the French restaurant with a British twist has reopened! Enjoy a glass of wine, a mini quiche or a sausage-roll before a screening – or just pop in if you’re in the neighbourhood to grab a sandwich, a brioche, some delicious cake or a coffee to go!
Cromwell Place, South Kensington’s highly anticipated flexible arts space, is bringing a new dynamic to the London art scene, Cromwell Place is an arts membership organisation - the first of its kind globally - providing a hub for UK and international galleries, dealers, advisors, curators, collectors and art professionals.
Introducing Professor Universe who has seven educational videos for children aged 6+. This fun, educational series is like Monty Python meets Bill Nye the Science Guy. After crash landing on a strange planet, Professor Universe must use his knowledge of science to get back home. Get ready to learn about orbits, light, stars, gravity and more with a cast of weird and wonderful characters.
For all who love creating beautiful things or simply being inspired by other's creativity, don't miss Leighton House Museum's new series The Artist Studio, featuring three contemporary artists who respond to Leighton House collections using their craft.
When we think about the history of exploration, we often imagine it as the work of exceptional individuals in extraordinary circumstances. Men and women venturing forth on some incredible journey, a fundamentally collective and shared experience. This wonderful online exhibition draws on images of exploration since 1800.
A podcast series where you can take a behind-the-scenes look at the eight Royal Parks. From the Royal Observatory of Greenwich Park to the roaming deer of Richmond, explore 5,000 acres of historical parkland right in the middle of London. Meet some of the incredible experts who work at The Royal Parks and discover the fascinating stories of these iconic green spaces.
The Royal College of Music has launched its autumn events season for 2020, including the first performances in London’s newest concert hall. The state-of-the-art Performance Hall is part of a recent £40 million investment in the RCM’s iconic South Kensington campus.
This is the ideal time to explore Kensington Palace, the birthplace of Queen Victoria and home to young royals for over 300 years. Walk in the footsteps of royalty in Victoria's re-imagined childhood rooms and the magnificent King's State Apartments and Queen's State Apartments.
The Ismaili Sounds presents Shab-e-Didam, a song in praise of Hazrat Ali. This rendition is performed by the DN Khorog Band from Tajikistan and features original lyrics by the celebrated Persian poet and philosopher, Hafez-e Shirazi.
What is queer ecology? How do queer theory and artistic practice inform environmental activism and climate justice? How can we think decolonisation and queerness together? Victoria Sin welcomes guest host Kostas Stasinopoulos to dive into transformation, queerness, the natural and unnatural, wild, decolonial and submerged perspectives
Awarded Industrial Fellow 2018, Ben Barnes is developing a method to purify exosomes that is both scalable and economically viable, so that they can be used therapeutically. Purification of these biomolecules is essential for the development of regenerative treatment, which could potentially be used to tackle cancer and act as delivery vehicles for therapeutic molecules.
Get up close with nature, discover fascinating creatures and intriguing science with these top tips for family visits and a self-guided tour. Can't make it to the Museum? There are still plenty of ways to get involved online with live talks, dinosaur crafts and ways to explore nature in your local area
Asante gold court regalia is richly symbolic of an economy centred on the gold trade. This display highlights contested heritage: some items were taken by British troops when they raided the Asante capital, Kumasi, in 1874 in conflicts over gold-trading ports.
Listen up and hear the beat! Time to take a closer look at this hidden hardworking hero… your heart. Get your blood pumping in this fun, family-friendly workshop where you can make your very own working stethoscope and put it to the test.
An online festival showcasing films by designers, and films on design by filmmakers and artists. Students from three graduate programmes investigate the relationship between design and film – film as a medium of worldmaking, film as a response to and reflection of current environments and conditions, film as a material for research and development and film as a conceptual and practical tool for designing.
In recent years, research and critical thinking have come to define contemporary design practice. Designers today are not only problem solvers or product creators but also catalysts for knowledge and the circulation of ideas. This year's theme is Restore.
If you love cinema, and you’re 25 years old or under, the 25 and Under £5 Scheme at Ciné Lumière is for you! Whether you want to see the latest releases or discover French classics, attend special Q&As or explore world cinema, enjoy discounted tickets with no booking fees.
Join the surgeon and academic Professor Roger Kneebone in conversation with unorthodox people whose careers defy traditional boundaries and who swim against the tide. Howard Williams, distinguised international conductor, explores the parallels between our experiences, discussing similarities and differences between music and medicine.
Imperial’s COVID-19 Response Team has been working with health services and governments around the world to help plan responses to the pandemic. Since January, the team have been working relentlessly to model the pandemic in real-time, providing policymakers and health leaders around the world with the latest estimates of the scale of outbreaks.
William III and Mary II were crowned as joint monarchs in 1689, after they were invited by Parliament to take the throne in the place of Catholic King James II, Mary’s father. They bought Kensington Palace to become their new home, away from the bustle of Whitehall Palace, and transformed the building into a royal home. The Queen's apartments were where Mary, and later royal consorts, lived. This is where they had their bedroom, took their meals, entertained their friends and distinguished guests, and relaxed.
Congratulations to the winners of the 2020 Awards. From imaginary worlds and fairy-tales to the difficult reality of life in a refugee camp, the winners of this year's awards demonstrate the versatility and breadth of contemporary illustration.
RBKC is launching a Culture Plan with a difference in September. There will be a fantastic choice of online and open space activities for residents and visitors. The world-famous Notting Hill Carnvival is going digital; front row seats guaranteed! Theatre projects will bring together playwrights and actors with the local community, and K+C Art Week will be creating a public art trail in shop windows on the iconic King's Road and Kensington High Street.
The Design Museum has launched a new pay it forward scheme in partnership with local charities, including The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, The scheme is aimed at offering free access to the museum's temporary exhibitions to young people and adults in the local community for whom price might be a barrier to participation - including those most affected by the Coronavirus crisis.
SK Shlomo will deliver an exclusive set from his home as part of the Royal Albert Home sessions. The genre-defying, award-winning, record-breaking beatboxer, producer and live-looper burst into the mainstream as ‘Shlomo’, collaborating with Björk and performing with famous fans including Damon Albarn, Lily Allen and Imogen Heap.
With the outbreak of coronavirus, many of us are spending more time at home. With quizzes being particularly popular here's a ready-made quiz round of 15 questions featuring facts from the Science Museum Group Collection.
For Benjamin Britten – one of the foremost composers of the 20th century – a quiet place to compose was absolutely essential. He was fortunate enough to achieve this for most of his life, spending his last two decades at The Red House, which has become a new creative retreat open to women members of the Royal Society of Sculptors to spend time in Suffolk..
'The perniciousness of Covid-19 is that it forces physical separation, even in death' writes Catrin Jones, Chief Curator at the V&A, in her blog about the pandemic's effect on mourning. Even in our digital age, virtual goodbyes cannot compensate for the touch of a hand, which has become a public marker of personal rites of passage. An absorbing read.
The Science Museum has joined forces with the BBC to bring you Bitesize Daily. Experience the wonders of science at home with exciting experiments and demonstrations carried out using exhibits at the Museum's Wonderlab: The Equinor Gallery in London.
Flowers in a Glass Vase (1667) is the earliest-known signed work by the Dutch artist Jacob van Walscapelle. This striking still life explores the theme of transience, depicting a bouquet of fast-fading flowers. Ironically, the beauty of the painting itself had started to fade, as it had not been treated since it arrived at the V&A in 1900. A fascinating video of its transformation.
Trumpet virtuoso Håkan Hardenberger leads Jack Wilson through a masterclass on From the Wreckage, by RCM Research Fellow in Composition Mark-Anthony Turnage. Supported by the RCM Symphony Orchestra under the directorship of Timothy Lines, watch this engaging journey through a classic of contemporary concerto repertoire.
Sir Ian Blatchford describes how the Science Museum Group is focused on meaningful and ongoing change in response to Black Lives Matter.
Connected is an experiment which set out to explore how designers and craftspeople adapted their working practices during lockdown. Nine international designers have been challenged to create a table and seating, that is personal to them, for home living and working.
The Institut français' Click & Collect is back. Simple, safe and free to use, all you have to do is order on line, wait for confirmation and go along and pick-up.
Bringing together world-leading experts in polar and marine exploration, the expedition aimed to solve unanswered questions about one of the most remote and least-studied wilderness areas on our planet. From Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 5. ,
In the last entry in the Royal Society of Sculptors' series of blogposts written by their Trustees whilst in lockdown, Richard Stone FRSS considers time and balance through the medium of a dandelion clock - a perfect, timeless form.
From joyful depictions of nightclubs to the tensions between police & the Afro-Caribbean community during the late 1970s & early 80s, Denzil Forrester (Painting, 1983) has been painting about the British Afro-Caribbean experience for nearly 40 years.
Are you wishing you were at Worthy Farm this weekend? Explore the Glastonbury Festival Archive at the V&A and find out how you can can add your memories to this eclectic and fascinating resource that documents how the Festival has developed over the past 50 years.
How can botanical knowledge support practices of ecological and personal healing? Victoria Sin and Lucia Pietroiusti co-host a round table with Emma Nicolson from Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh with artists Keg de Souza, Nabihah Iqbal and botanist Greg Kenicer. Featuring sound works by Rachel Pimm and Keg de Souza.
Crisis and the rise of the right... We refer to Europe mainly in terms of its political and economic systems, and often only when those systems are being challenged. With Brexit now a certainty, we want to address Europe as a place and as a concept - a continent formed of an international community.
During times of pandemic, a host of everyday, often-overlooked ‘objects’are suddenly charged with new urgency. Pandemic Objects is one of many thought-provoking articles written by V&A bloggers.
This awe-inspiring series has seen the release of three creatures captured on 50p coins - the Megalosaurus, the Iguanodon and the Hylaeosaurus that originally led the coining of the term ‘dinosaur’ in 1842.
Asian ceramics have been the subject of international and inter-Asian trade for over one thousand years. Transported by sea through dangerous waters, many of these ceramics never made their final destination, but not all have ended up on the ocean's bed.
In the first of a series of seminars on COVID-19, two experts will talk about their work into mitigating the impacts of this infection through the development of a new vaccine and other therapeutic approaches.
With summer officially here and London gradually re-opening, why not explore the parks through the works of some famous writers - discover J M Barrie’s ultimate fancy, Peter Pan, walk in the steps of Virginia Woolf through Kensington Gardens, or visit the famous Speaker’s Corner, George Orwell’s ardent haunt.
A virus is showing us how interlinked we are globally and yet how fragile our public life is. What does the pandemic mean for each of us and for society as a whole? Artists and intellectuals from around the world respond to our present predicament and what lies in store.
This is a hairy anglerfish, one of only 17 discovered so far. This specimen is particularly intriguing because it has a huge expanded stomach. Scientists didn't want to cut it open and damage the specimen so instead used a CT scanner to discover what was inside.
Not everyone can come to the Royal Parks right now, so they want to bring the Royal Parks to you. Be prepared to escape into the nature, heritage and beauty of these incredible green spaces from the comfort of your own home.
Historic Royal Palaces' Joint Chief Curator Lucy Worsley is joined by Royal Dress Collection Curator Eleri Lynn for a trip inside the Royal Wardrobe to discuss some of their favourite items in the collection – from a jerkin worn by the ill-fated Charles I, right through to the beautifully tailored wardrobe of the Duke of Windsor. Register now for the event
Join Historic Royal Palace's Joint Chief Curator, Lucy Worsley, in a special one-off programme, 'Lucy Worsley's Royal Photo Album', as she uncovers the stories behind some of the most famous photographs of the British Royal Family.
Westminster Libraries & Archives have some great online activities for your kids from rhyme time on Wednesday mornings to story telling on Mondays and Fridays.
Hard to believe that Pac-man turns 40 this month. To celebrate, Head of Commercial Experiences and gaming fan, Mark Cutmore explores the story of the much-loved character and pop-culture icon and the undisputed granddaddy of gaming mascots.
Inspire students' creativity and passion with the Design Museum's fantastic range of ready made lessons. Make a wiggle side chair, redesign your kitchenware or design your own environmentally friendly packaging - with everyday materials and household objects.
Fun activities for young ones to discover more about this iconic landmark and its namesake Lord Leighton. Learn about the amazing paintings which line its walls and create a masterpiece of your own!
Discover more about how science and maths affect the world around us with the Science Museum's free games, and apps. Spring your way through 30 obstacle levels on Launchball or test your own all-terrain space rover.in Rugged Rovers. For early learners through to KS4.
The Science Museum's Learning Resources is bursting with interesting and fun experiments. Bring the wonder home and explore science and maths with their hands-on activities the whole family can do together.
Take a virtual tour of the magnificent Crystal Palace and experience its innovative design and beauty. Constructed in 1851, it defined Prince Albert's ambitions to showcase the best of Victoria's reign.
The Royal Society of Sculptors has teamed up with ArtUK for this week's creative challenge - sculpture inspired by architecture. Look at books & photos for inspiration from unusual buildings, or explore the internet for ideas from around the world. Then use anything recyclable around your home and start creating!
Hospitals with no beds or blankets. Emaciated, weak and dying soldiers. Rats and fleas everywhere. When Florence Nightingale arrived with her 38-strong nursing team in the Crimea in November 1854, this was the appalling scene that greeted them. Two years later, she had developed pioneering statistical methods to convince other people that widespread reform was vital.
This year the Science Museum is celebrating the science of everyday objects through a new series of online stories. So grab a cuppa and settle down to learn about that mid-century icon, the Teasmade, or explore the illuminating story of how electric lighting transformed our homes.
In the Science Museum’s new Shaping Science series, meet the artisans who are using a mix of traditional and modern techniques to create beautiful hand-made scientific instruments from a replica seventeenth century globe to a brass sundial and clock wheel.
The NHM is inviting all you budding photographers to explore nature on your doorstep. It could be from your balcony or in your back garden. Share your snaps with them on Instagram and inspire others - and stay safe! #WPYFromHome.
Are you a resident of Kensington and Chelsea or a frequent visitor of the local area? Sign up to receive the latest news and updates from the Council via K&C Life, their weekly enewsletter. In addition to discovering more cultural things to do in the area, you’ll learn the latest information about changes in service, Covid-19 support and much more. Stay informed and sign up today.
For a new residency, the Goethe-Institut London and Somerset House Studios welcome artist, DJ, writer, and performer Juliana Huxtable. Working remotely from her studio, Juliana will be taking part in live streams and artist development opportunities.
The Goethe-Institut's popular podcasts regularly feature a dynamic and thought-provoking selection of exclusive interviews and debates. Kris Nelson, Artist Director of LIFT discusses 'why does theatre matter right now?' against a background of rising right-wing parties, and the current challenges of COVID-19.
The Royal Parks have launched the first episode of the Hidden Stories of the Royal Parks podcast. Sit back and relax in the comfort of your own home as they bring the parks to you.
Japan House launches their first virtual exhibition, 'Anno’s Journey: The World of Anno Mitsumasa', showcasing the lifeworks of the beloved story teller and illustrator. A captivating and sensory experience.
There’s not much fun to be had on a rainy day, but Emma-Jayne Parkes wanted to use her design skills and a special type of ‘smart’ material to change that perception. Discover more about her Squid London’s colour changing umbrella!
Stepping into a teacher's shoes, even for a short time, may be daunting, especially if it feels like centuries since you were in the classroom yourself. But don't panic! Historic Royal Palaces has lots of ideas and resources online to help your children continue exploring history without having to step outside the front door.
Of the Museum's 80 million specimens, only a tiny fraction ever go on display. Uncover colourful stories behind the specimens, meet collectors and curators past and present and read about their contributions to our understanding of the natural world.
Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Diaphonique's Franco-British fund for contemporary music, Pascal Dusapin’s opera Passion highlights how dance and opera work beautifully together.
Keeping a nature journal is a great way to record any nature you see, from plants in the park to a spider in your living room. If you keep up the habit, you will quickly build up a record of your local wildlife and surroundings. Your findings could even help scientists monitor wildlife changes.
Hang out with the Nature Live Online team on Tuesdays at 12.00 and Fridays at 10.30 for interactive talks featuring topical discussions with the NHM scientists and cutting-edge research.
Earth Photo is an international competition and exhibition created by the Society and Forestry England. This virtual exhibition showcases the very best in environmental visual media and how it can better connect us with the world by telling stories and encouraging discussion about our planet, its inhabitants and our treatment of both.
Which post-quarantine couture look you would go for? The V&A would love to hear which option you would choose.
One of the most influential designers of the 2oth Century, Elsa Schiaparelli's subversive, often surreal designs have been beautifully captured in this film, by senor curator, Sonnet Stanfill.
Ever wondered about the story behind your underwear? Modesty laws, changing fashions, and a desire for comfort have all influenced the design of underwear over time. Take a rummage through the V&A collection and find everything from the practical to the provocative.
Delve into the V&A's archives and discover a weird and wonderful selection of V&A exhibition posters from 1915 – 2015.
From their living room to yours, a range of artists will be performing exclusively for you. Relax and enjoy singer-songwriter KT Tunstall or set sail with the Sea Shambles, listen to the rich vocals of This is Kit or entertain your little ones to the sounds of Jazz for Kids, with many more acts to follow.
Turning their eyes towards the sky, the Russian people pioneered space travel, becoming the first nation to launch satellites, animals and humans into orbit. Their early achievements were seen as a challenge by America, and created fierce competition between the two nations. Delve into a fascinating world of exploration and discovery..
Distinct, elegant and vivid in colour, items from the V&A's fashion collections reveal the relationship between Art Deco design and the clothing and jewellery of the 1920s and 1930s. Jeanne Lanvin's 1930s beautiful evening dresses were the epitome of Art Deco elegance, combining simple, fluid forms with severe geometry. Immerse yourself in a bygone era!
Are you ready for this week's #TuesdayTour? Today the V&A team will show you have to give an Arts and Crafts twist to your wardrobe.
The Serpentine launches 'Earth Perspectives', a new artwork conceived by Olafur Eliasson for Earth Day 2020, comprising of nine images featuring nine different views over the Earth.
From light bulbs to motorways and cups of tea to concrete, discover the extraordinary science stories behind familiar objects and technologies we encounter every day
RBKC libraries have a fantastic online library to keep you entertained and uplifted. In addition to daily newspapers, there is a vast selection of journals, comics, books, audiobooks, language-learning platform, reference books and much more! If you don't have a library card, all you have to do is join online and download the CloudLibrary app.
Resources to support recent geographical stories in the press. Suitable for Key Stages 1-5.
Get inspired and rediscover the joy of science during the stay home guidance. You can join Imperial from wherever you are in the world with their online content and events!
Find out more about the Royal Geographical Society's online lectures offered through their School Membership package
The RGS has created ten curated datasets, on a variety of topics, to help teachers guide students in the use of open datasets. The principles behind these resources can be applied by teachers and students to other relevant open datasets. Suitable for key stages 3, 4 and 5.
Get immersed in the stories behind the RGS' Collections from the comfort of your home.
To mark the centenary of Eric Newby’s birth, and the recent donation of his archives to the Society, this exhibition displays a selection of stunning photographs from Newby’s travels, from The Last Grain Race to A Small Place in Italy.
Geography teachers and students: now that your lessons have moved online, why not check out RGS' fascinating case studies and articles that link directly to key stages and course content? From the carbon and water cycles to geopolitics and development, they have a resource to help you learn.
The RCM Chamber Orchestra is joined by three celebrated musicians from the Chamber Orchestra of Europe – violinist Mats Zetterqvist, clarinetist Romain Guyot and trumpeter Nicholas Thompson. Together they perform Brahms' richly textured Symphony no 2.
Britain's first astronaut, Helen Sharman, shares her thoughts on confinement and isolation when living and working in space, and how those lessons could apply to isolation during the coronavirus outbreak.
A new COVID-19 project by Imperial researchers will look for potential new treatments using the computing power of people’s smartphones.
Welcome, naturenauts! Are you ready for an adventure? Grab your phone or tablet to explore the nature on your doorstep.
Whether you’ve found yourself in charge of your children’s school day, or are simply after some creative fun to fill an afternoon, check out the Young Design Museum strand. Bring the world of design to life through everyday materials and household objects.
Can't get out far to explore nature? The Natural History Museum has got lots of fun activities and ideas to occupy you and family at home, in your garden or local outdoor space.
Artists present exclusive sessions from their homes to yours. In these strange times, closing the Hall’s doors is the best way to look after the world, but we are now opening a (virtual) window for you to experience some of the most talented artists around.
Delve into the Museum from home with a virtual self-guided tour of the galleries, an interactive experience about Hope the blue whale and audio guides narrated by Sir David Attenborough.
The V&A Illustration Awards are seen as the UK's most prestigious annual illustration competition, celebrating excellence in student illustration. Free to enter, they attract a raft of creativity and talent. Read more on the V&A blog. The winners will be announced on Tuesday 2 June 2020.
Study German online in their virtual classrooms with live sessions and follow individual exercises at your own pace. Choose your level from beginner (A1, A2) to intermediate (B1, B2) to advanced (C1, C2). Learn German and get qualified for your future.
Rediscover the newly refurbished V&A’s Raphael Court - home to the iconic Raphael Cartoons. Commissioned in 1515 by Pope Leo X for the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, they depict the lives of the apostles, Saint Peter and Saint Paul.
From light bulbs to motorways and cups of tea to concrete, discover the extraordinary science stories behind familiar objects and technologies we encounter every day.
Famous worldwide as the painter of such masterpieces as the Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci (1452 – 1519) is also renowned for his notebooks in which he recorded his thoughts and inventions. Five of these fascinating notebooks, bound into three small volumes, have been in our collection since 1876 when they were bequeathed to the Museum by John Forster
Whether you're into knitting, coding, or crafting your own furniture, the V&A has got a creative project for you. These fun, free resources and tutorials are all inspired by their incredible collections – bringing you a range of DIY makes to try at home.
In addition to the galleries opening, Serpentine's work continues online. Collected here are some of the ways you can interact with their programmes through online exhibitions, digital commissions, podcasts, special broadcasts and more.
Imperial researchers and Coursera have partnered to offer a free Massively Open Online Course explaining the science behind coronavirus.
Their doors might be closed for now but the Royal Albert Hall is still here to bring you stories, performances, and activities to keep you entertained and inspired at home. Stay tuned!
Find answers to your big nature questions. Delve into stories about the Museum's collections, scientists and research. Uncover the history of life on Earth, from the smallest insects to the largest mammals.
Enjoy a family Create and Make workshop at home. Colour, cut and build to create your own Design Museum exhibition. Colour, cut and build to create your own Design Museum exhibition. Bring the Design Museum to you by building your own furniture exhibition.
A wealth of French resources is at your fingertips. Simply register online to keep up-to-date with daily news and current affairs, magazines galore, audio books, bestsellers - the selection is endless!
From its early beginnings to the foundation stone laid by Queen Victoria in 1899, to today's state-of-the-art galleries, the Museum has constantly evolved in its collecting and public interpretation of art and design. Its collections span 5,000 years of human creativity in virtually every medium, housed in one of the finest groups of Victorian and modern buildings in Britain.
From ancient Chinese ceramics to Alexander McQueen evening dresses, take an incredible journey through 5000 years of human creativity with their online collections.
The Royal Albert Hall's stage may have temporarily fallen silent but there's a lot to see and read on their blogs to lift your spirits.
Have you always wanted to learn French but never had the time? Or felt self-conscious amongst a group of strangers in a classroom? Well now you have no excuses! The Institut français has a dedicated team of native speakers who can teach you one-to-one - or even with a group of friends. Work at your own pace and really enjoy learning again. C'est si facile!
Stay connected with The Royal Society of Sculptors through their online blogs.
While our five museums are closed, join us online to discover inspiring stories of scientific achievement on our websites, delve into our incredible collections or through videos and 3D models, hear from scientific pioneers. Explore fun activities to try at home or simply have fun playing our online games.
The V&A's team of writers will take you behind the scenes to discover a kaleidoscopic world of art and design spanning over 5000 years, from the weird and wonderful to the obscure and intriguing.
Explore over 325,000 objects and archives from the Science Museum, Science and Industry Museum, National Science and Media Museum, National Railway Museum and Locomotion.
Go behind the scenes on the Science Museum's blog and explore the world of espionage and code breaking, celebrate women in space, unlock the myths and misconceptions of quantum computing - and more!
Explore over 250,000 objects and archives in the museum's ever-expanding digital collection. Find out about the fascinating histories behind even the smallest objects.
