The Royal Institution – Christmas Lectures Live Screening

Jim swings from the roof of the Royal Institution’s iconic Theatre and smashes crystals as he explores the curious ways we measure time. He'll test whether our brains are good timekeepers and uncover the truth that time may not actually be constant throughout the universe! 

Jim breaks down why the idea of “now” has wracked the brains of scientists and philosophers for thousands of years. It’s a maddening contradiction that as soon as we try to grasp the present moment it slips into the past. Jim believes it could lead us to a deeper truth buried in the universe, a hidden arrow of time pointing from the big bang to the cosmic crunch.

You can make your way to the Auditorium by walking through the Lothian Entrance. There is a ramp on the left-hand side once you enter the building.

The door to the Auditorium is not automatic and cannot be opened by a push pad. During an event it may already be open or you can open it by pulling it towards you. 

There are four designated spaces for wheelchairs in the Auditorium. Two are at the front on Level 1 and two are at the back on Level 2. You can access the upper spaces by taking the lift next to the Auditorium. A staff member will be available to give directions to the lift. 

These spaces can be booked in advance. Please contact publicevents@nms.ac.uk to book a designated wheelchair space. 

There is significant space to use a wheelchair in the Auditorium. 

Please ask a member of staff if you'd like to borrow a wheelchair after you've arrived. They cannot be booked in advance. 

Seats in the Auditorium are fixed and tiered. There are steps and handrails on either side of the seating rows. 

The seats are cushioned and have arm rests on either side. 

There is 18cm of leg room between rows. 

If you require a seat at the front or near the front, please get in touch at publicevents@nms.ac.uk. 

There is an induction loop in the Auditorium. 

The nearest toilets are on Level 1 next to the Lothian Street Entrance. There are standard toilets and an accessible toilet. A baby changing table is located in the accessible toilet. 

If you require a changing places toilet, please ask a member of staff.