Experience the history, architecture and science of the East Wing of Burlington House, home to the Royal Society of Chemistry. Part of the quadrangle extension to Burlington House, it was purpose built for the learned society.

Robert Richardson Banks and Charles Barry, 1873

Home to the oldest geological society in the world, founded in 1807. The Society has been based at Burlington House since 1874, and now has over 12,000 members worldwide.

Robert Richardson Banks and Charles Barry, 1873

The Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) moved into Burlington House 150 years ago in 1874. Part of the extension to Burlington House to provide accommodation for learned societies, the building was refurbished in 2007. The RAS is the oldest astronomical society in the world and has been encouraging and promoting the study of astronomy and geophysics since 1820.

Robert Richardson Banks and Charles Barry, 1874

The world's oldest active biological society. Founded in 1788, the Society takes its name from the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus whose botanical, zoological and library collections have been in its keeping since 1829.

Robert Richardson Banks and Charles Barry, 1873

St James's Piccadilly is a Grade I listed Christopher Wren church in the heart of the West End. Completed in 1684, and known as the Artists' Church, its interiors include historic works of art by Grinling Gibbons (reredos, organ case and font), postwar Classical interiors by Albert Richardson, and contemporary art by Che Lovelace honouring the 18th-century abolitionist Quobna Ottobah Cugoano.

Christopher Wren, 1684

Visit hidden spaces not usually open to the public, including the newly restored Royal Academy Schools and the original residence of the RA's 'Keeper'.

Various architects, 1660

On this journey into Soho and St Giles, I want to show the different ways London’s streets are alive with love in all its varied forms. Buildings are often said to be sympathetic or out of place, in keeping or a departure from their surroundings. This tour will explore how the built environment reflects the relationships we conduct with each other.

Alfred Gilbert, 1892

This Victorian building is situated next door to St James' Palace. Fronted in stone in a 'Grosvenor Hotel' Italianate style, coarse foliage ornamentation adorns the facade with grand interiors adapted for Masonic use in the 1970s.

James Knowles Jr., 1866

Explore twenty first century architecture in one of London's most luxurious and historic neighbourhoods. This walking tour covers Mayfair's new contemporary developments, discovering architectural treasures, hidden gems and buildings that are designed for our changing climate. Largely shaped by aristocratic landowners in the eighteenth century, the neighbourhood has undergone constant evolution ever since. Georgian originals blend with thoroughly modern additions where architects have responded to Mayfair's unique character with creativity and ingenuity. Tour stops include the inventive reuse of existing buildings, re-shaped green spaces, a completely transformed London square and luxurious designs to delight. You will see how the architects of today have integrated modern architecture into an historic neighbourhood, showcasing the balance between preservation and modernisation. These all combine to create Mayfair's distinct architectural character which reflects it sumptuous beginnings, bold ambitions and future visions.

Matthew Brettingham, 1756

Built as a Whig gentleman's club and inspired by Italian Renaissance palaces. Lobby leads to an enclosed colonnaded courtyard with complementary glazed roof and tessellated floor. Tunnelled staircase leads to upper floor.

Charles Barry, 1841

Commissioned in 1825 by the Duke of York and named York House. In 1829 the lease was purchased by the first Duke of Sutherland. In 1913, Lord Leverhulme, bought the lease for the nation and Stafford House became Lancaster House.

Benjamin Wyatt, 1825