The Royal Institution
Plan your event
A Grade I Home of Science on Albemarle Street
At 21 Albemarle Street since 1799, where Faraday worked and the Christmas Lectures began.
The Royal Institution was founded in 1799 and bought 21 Albemarle Street that same year. It has been there ever since. Michael Faraday did much of his work here, and his 1850s laboratory is on show in the Faraday Museum. The Christmas Lectures began here in 1825, and ten chemical elements were discovered in the Grade I listed building.
Event spaces run from the 440-seat Theatre to the book-lined Library and the Georgian, Writing and Sunley Rooms, with the glass-roofed Atrium and the museum on the lower ground floor. Searcys is the in-house catering partner, and other caterers are considered only in special circumstances, so speak to us early if you would like us to cater.
Planning an event here? See our corporate event catering in London and our Christmas party catering.
The Royal Institution at a Glance
Location
21 Albemarle Street, Mayfair, London W1S 4BS.
Capacity
Theatre seats 440. Conversation Room 120 reception. Library 100 reception or 80 to 96 dining.
History
Founded 1799. Faraday’s 1850s laboratory and the Christmas Lectures, held since 1825.
Good to Know
Searcys is the in-house caterer. Outside caterers only in special circumstances, by agreement with the venue.
Plan Your Event at The Royal Institution
Tell us about your plans and a party planner will call you back within 48 hours.