/ Events

Open House 2025

20 - 21 September 2025 10:00 - 17:00 The Royal Society Free
Royal Society building on Carlton House Terrace

Explore the history and architectural highlights of Carlton House Terrace, the home of the UK's national academy of science.

On 20 and 21 September 2025, Open House Festival, the largest annual festival of architecture and design returns to the Royal Society. Over the weekend, visitors are invited to discover the secrets of the Grade 1 listed, Nash-designed town houses that are currently home to the oldest scientific academy in continuous existence.

Uncover countless treasures behind the doors of 6-9 Carlton House Terrace, including portraits of Royal Society Fellows dating back to the 1600s, including the recently revealed portrait of Sir David Attenborough by world renowned artist Jonathan Yeo. Also on show are an ornate mother-of-pearl inlay ceiling, and features from the building’s time as the pre-WWII German Embassy.

During this opportunity to see the 19th century building, join one of our free guided tours or explore at your own pace with our self-guided tour, available to collect on the day. Please note that places are limited for our free guided tours and you must book your spot at the building on the day of the tour.

We encourage families to visit and to take part in a family friendly activity we will have to offer while you explore the building.

Exhibit in the basement

'Nature spoke to her': women scientists in the Royal Society

This exhibition celebrates the 80th anniversary of the first women becoming Fellows of the Royal Society. Before and after Marjory Stephenson’s and Kathleen Lonsdale’s 1945 milestone elections, women scientists made strides in recognition and produced groundbreaking science. What was said of the great Victorian pioneer, Mary Somerville (1780-1872), was equally true of all: ‘Nature spoke to her…’. Discover the histories of some of these remarkable scientists, and their works, from the Royal Society’s archives.

Tours

There will be guided tours given by members of our Library team throughout the weekend. Tours can only be booked in person on the day and are first-come, first-served. The full programme of tours and special events will be announced by the end of August.

Accessibility

We strive to make our events as accessible to everyone as possible. The building can be accessed via five steps with a handrail, or by using a lift. Once inside, all areas can be reached without using steps. If you are unable to queue to enter the building, please inform a member of staff when you arrive.

Attending the event

  • Free to attend, no booking required
  • The building will be open from 10am - 5pm on Saturday and Sunday. Last entry will be at 4.30pm each day
  • Please be prepared to queue during busy times

Find travel and accessibility information on our website.

For all enquiries or if you have any accessibility requirements you would like to discuss, please contact the Public Engagement team.