This lecture explains why Stonehenge must be regarded as architectural in its layout and construction, embodying techniques that for centuries convinced antiquarians that it could not have been built by ‘primitive’ ancient Britons but must be a product of ‘sophisticated’ Romans.

In this lecture Simon Whitehouse traces the story of Covent Garden as the entertainment centre of London. He examines the origins of two legendary theatres that gave birth to modern West End theatre and introduces us to the performers who shaped the buildings and starred at the theatre.

Throughout history, travelling and journeys have been used as a way to display wealth, power and status. Today, we take a journey as a matter of course, not thinking really much of a distance of a hundred miles or more. In the past however, things were very different.

Romain de Tirtoff (known more famously by his pseudonym, Erté) was a Russian-born, French artist and designer who became revered as the ‘Father of Art Deco’.

Movie posters have helped us decide how to spend our hard-earned cinema money for over a century. Join us to find out what we can learn from a hundred years of movie posters. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS LECTURE BEGINS 1 HOUR LATER THAN USUAL AT 11.30AM

The lecture take us on a journey beginning in Outer Mongolia in the 5th century BC and follows the 11th century migrations from Turkmenistan, the cradle of weaving, into the Caucasus, Persia and Afghanistan. Join us to hear more.

Winston Churchill and Noel Coward were both keen amateur artists who painted for over forty years and even discussed painting. Winston's wit is the stuff of legends and Noel's is evident in his many plays and musicals. Join us to hear some of their stories.

If you think of St Pancras International or New York Grand Central Terminus you imagine long romantic journeys. You know they are special places promising excitement and adventure. However, there are dozens of others. Join us to find out more.

Merry Christmas Everyone! Come join us to hear about the man who 'invented' Christmas

The history of chairs from the ancient to modern times What do your chairs say about you? Learn about the construction and style from the ancient times to the early 20th Century

When Jane Austen wrote 'I write only for fame...' she was being ironic as she published anonymously. 250 years on, our lecturer, Annelie Talent, explores the making of a literary celebrity and examines Austen's legacy

Without the tireless efforts of Sir Henry J, Wood, British musical life would be very different indeed. Join us to find out more

Possibly the most admired historic English building outside London, This lecture explores these themes and the characters involved, marvelling at the genius of Vanbrugh and considering the real impact the palace has left on us.

London’s sumptuous Victorian and Edwardian department stores changed the capital – and changed its women. Join us to hear and see about a fascinating slice of social history

What in someone's handwriting is so distinctive? The same goes for painters. Join us to learn more.

The lecture covers the colourful stories of pigments and dyes. Could it be that Napoleon was killed by his green wallpaper? Join us to find out.

This lecture will explore the career of designer Marion Dorn and the wider European avant-garde movement between the wars.

The Wonderful world of glazes and colours for pottery from tea cups through to large vessels. This lecture discusses the work of William Morgan, The Martin Brothers through to Sir Edmund Elton