1 / 2The Royal Institution
📍 London, Greater London
Historic science venue housing Faraday's original laboratory, the lecture theatre where he gave his Christmas lectures, and exhibits on scientific instruments and discoveries. Free Faraday Museum entry. Science workshops run for ages 7–18.
The main part of this building is the Faraday Museum. It illustrates the contributions and inventions of the great Michael Faraday along with other scientists who worked at the Royal Institution. In display are Faraday's egg, coils used by him for his invention on electromagnetism, his lab behind the glass doors, the spectacles worn by him in the lab and many more. It's a shame that this is open only during weekdays but it's totally worth a visit. Do check out the theatre in the first floor where the Christmas lectures happen.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with science-curious children aged 8 and up who can appreciate historical instruments and the significance of the space. The lecture theatre and working laboratory create a strong sense of place that textbooks cannot replicate.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →1,229 Google reviews
Antony
2 years ago
“The main part of this building is the Faraday Museum. It illustrates the contributions and inventions of the great Michael Faraday along with other scientists who worked at the Royal Institution. In display are Faraday's egg, coils used by him for his invention on electromagnetism, his lab behind the glass doors, the spectacles worn by him in the lab and many more. It's a shame that this is open only during weekdays but it's totally worth a visit. Do check out the theatre in the first floor where the Christmas lectures happen.”
Mick O'Reilly
a month ago
“Lived in London for 77 years, been running a London History Group for 15 years yet I had never been to the Royal Institution! What a mistake! Lovely building near Green Park station with great exhibits showing how famous members of the institution like for example Faraday, Davy, Dewar, etc created some of the foundations for science and engineering. They offer tours as well. Great place to visit and it has a small cafe as well”
Tom Ryan-Elliott
2 years ago
“It was the first time I've ever been here and will definitely be back there again to learn more about the history of science. A good collection of things to see as well as a cafe downstairs. Available space if you'd like to book an event.”
Uknow
a year ago
“If you're keen on science, you'll love the exhibitions here. As a pharmacist, I found many captivating displays, like vintage slides and old microscopes. Best of all, entry is free, and there's a café inside.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
The Royal Institution on Albemarle Street holds Faraday's original laboratory — intact with his coils, equipment, and egg — alongside the lecture theatre where famous scientists including Faraday and Dewar presented their work. The Faraday Museum is free to enter and displays scientific instruments from across the institution's history. Educational workshops for ages 7–18 run separately. A cafe and bar are available on the lower ground floor. Nearest station is Green Park.
