Online exhibitions
Natural hazards and empire
An exploration of how natural hazards were studied and experienced under the conditions of empire, drawing on examples from the Society's Collections.
Theatre of the world
Illustrated with stunning plates from the Society’s atlases, this online exhibition looks at the key cartographers and publishers in the evolution and development of the printed world atlas over more than 500 years.
Everest through the lens
This online exhibition marks the centenary of the Everest expeditions in the 1920s and explores Captain John Noel’s films while unpicking the uncomfortable and complex social, racial and geopolitical dynamics that shaped the expeditions – from their beginning to enduring legacy.
The Great Barrier Reef Expedition 1928-1929
The world’s first major expedition on a coral reef engaged with themes that resonate with today’s geographers: underwater adventure, gender equality, climate change and a scientific legacy that lives on.
Queen Elizabeth II - In memoriam
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was the Society's Patron for over 60 years. To celebrate her life and mark her passing, we have put together a short display of items relating to the Queen from our Collections.
Shackleton’s legacy and the power of early Antarctic photography
Marking the centenary of Shackleton's death, the exhibition explores the role of photography and literature throughout Shackleton’s career, and the influences and motivations behind Shackleton's fascination with Antarctica.
Through the lens of Carleton Watkins
Explore dramatic and awe-inspiring images of the natural environment by one of the most important practitioners in the history of photography - Carleton Watkins.
The lost voices in the archive
In this richly illustrated online exhibition, Dr Kate Simpson brings to light the vital role African people played in British expeditions to Africa in the 19th and early 20th century.
Observed on paper
Explore a selection of drawings and watercolours from our Collections, illustrating people and landscapes, many produced decades before the camera became part of the standard expedition kit.
Dreams and nightmares in the Arctic: The quest for the Northwest Passage
The fascinating story of the search for the Northwest Passage, featuring a wide selection of images from our Collections.
Lights and shadows
A selection of stunning photographs from the Society's vast image collection, dated between 1851 and 1962.
Everest - a reconnaissance
This exhibition showcases a selection of platinum prints made from the newly digitised negatives of the 1921 British Mount Everest Reconnaissance Expedition.