London Luminaries Presents
The our 2026 lecture series consists of eight talks and will run from April to November. There’ll be a wide range of topics including two from our newest Luminaries: Dr Johnson’s House and the Museum of Richmond. As usual, all talks will be delivered online and are free but we ask you to make a donation if you are able.
There’s more information about this series here and you can sign up to our email list to be amongst the first to get told about our talks.
London Luminaries is a partnership of historic properties in London sharing history and heritage through online talks for everyone to enjoy.
Upcoming Events
Insightful live-streamed talks and Q&A sessions direct from our engaging London Luminaries experts. There’s something for everyone!
6
Aug
Bringing Joseph William Mallord Turner back to SandycombeLucy LittlewoodDate: 6 August, 2026Starts: 7:00 pmEnds: 8:00 pmLocation: Online LivestreamPrice: Free with optional donation. A combined ticket for all events in this series is available.Theme: All Talks, Spotlight Talks 2026Info & Booking3
Sep
Henrietta Howard’s Mythology – Classical Symbolism and Allusion in the Decoration of Marble Hill House and GardenRicky PoundDate: 3 September, 2026Starts: 7:00 pmEnds: 8:00 pmLocation: Online LivestreamPrice: Free with optional donation. A combined ticket for all events in this series is available.Theme: All Talks, Spotlight Talks 2026Info & Booking1
Oct
Encountering Asia at Restoration-era Ham HouseKerry AppsDate: 1 October, 2026Starts: 7:00 pmEnds: 8:00 pmLocation: Online LivestreamPrice: Free with optional donation. A combined ticket for all events in this series is available.Theme: All Talks, Spotlight Talks 2026Info & Booking
Highlights From History
How much did an 18th century pineapple cost? Who were the Macaroni Club? And what is an aphrodisiac pie? Discover highlights from past talks and learn more about key themes.
A Beginner’s Guide to Neo-Palladian Architecture
Have you ever wondered why so many grand buildings in London look like something out of ancient Greece or Rome? What is this architectural style, and when and why did it become so popular?
What is the English Landscape Movement?
The eighteenth-century phenomenon known as the English Landscape Movement can tell us about art, literature, politics, and empire.
Eels, Pies, Picnics and Banquets
Learn about the Macaroni Club’s pasta obsession, the first Hindustani coffee house in London, and how to get an invitation to the Picnic Academical Society!
Discover wonderful places to visit
Visit West London’s most beautiful historic properties. Houses, gardens, grottos, museums, and galleries. All easy to get to, making a great day out.
Where will you start?
Past Talks & Themes
Our past talks explore the rich tapestry of connections between our historic properties, the fascinating people who lived in them, and the world they experienced. View our previous themes below.
Support us with a donation
Support the ongoing work of the London Luminaries to help our important historic properties stay open and keep being enjoyed by all.