Be part of the refurbishment of the Geological Society’s historic Lecture Theatre, a room at the heart of geoscience.
Founded in 1807 by thirteen pioneers in the field, the Geological Society is the world's oldest geological society. Since 1874, Burlington House has been its home, welcoming generations of fellows, researchers, educators, students and professionals alike dedicated to advancing the understanding of the Earth and planetary sciences.
At the heart of that activity sits the Lecture Theatre, a space much more than a room with an interesting story. It’s a room where the history of geology happened.
Originally known as the Meeting Room, this space has remained a place where ideas were exchanged, discoveries announced and scientific understanding advanced. Within its walls, Mary Anning's fossil discoveries transformed understanding of prehistoric life. William Buckland formally described the Megalosaurus, the first scientifically named dinosaur. Charles Darwin presented his first scientific paper following the voyage of HMS Beagle. And it was here that the Cambrian, Silurian, Devonian and Permian systems were debated.
The room has also witnessed pivotal moments in the Geological Society's own history, from the election of its first women Fellows in 1919, to the discovery of Piltdown Man and subsequent announcement as a fraud in 1954. In 1973, Apollo 17 astronaut and geologist Harrison Schmitt, the only geologist to walk on the Moon, delivered the inaugural lecture in the newly refurbished theatre.
Few scientific spaces in the world can claim such a direct connection to the development of an entire discipline. Today, this remarkable room stands ready for its next chapter.
In 2024, the Geological Society secured a 999-year lease at Burlington House, creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in its future.
The refurbishment of our Lecture Theatre will honour its extraordinary heritage while creating a modern, accessible and sustainable venue for learning, collaboration and public engagement. By carefully restoring this unique room and equipping it for the future, we will ensure it continues to inspire discovery and serve geoscience for generations to come.
The Lecture Theatre Refurbishment Appeal will:
- Restore historic character by revealing and celebrating surviving Victorian features.
- Improve accessibility to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
- Support sustainability through improved building performance and energy efficiency.
- Enhance learning and engagement with modern audiovisual facilities that enable global participation.
- Strengthen international connections by providing a world-class space for scientific exchange, both in person and online.
The Geological Society's history has been shaped by generations of Fellows, supporters and benefactors who invested in its future. Today, we invite a new generation to help preserve this remarkable legacy and create opportunities for future discovery.
To learn more about supporting the Lecture Theatre Refurbishment Appeal, visit our project pages or contact the Development Team at development@geolsoc.org.uk.
