The Scott Polar Research Institute (SPRI) in Cambridge is a world-renowned centre for polar research and exploration, dedicated to the study of the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
Established in 1920, it is part of the University of Cambridge and serves as a hub for research, education, and public engagement with the fascinating, often extreme environments of the polar regions.
About the Scott Polar Research Institute
Named after the legendary British explorer Captain Robert Falcon Scott, who led expeditions to Antarctica, the institute’s primary goal is to support scientific research and exploration related to the polar regions. The institute is a vital resource for researchers studying everything from polar ice and climate change to the history of exploration.
It also houses an impressive collection of polar artefacts and documents, many of which are of international historical significance.
The SPRI is housed in a beautiful building on Lensfield Road, near the heart of Cambridge, and serves as a vital academic and cultural institution, combining scientific discovery with a deep appreciation of polar history.
What to See at the Scott Polar Research Institute
Polar History Collection
One of the most fascinating aspects of SPRI is its extensive collection related to polar exploration, particularly the early 20th century.
The collection includes personal diaries, photographs, maps, and equipment used by explorers like Ernest Shackleton, Roald Amundsen, and Robert Scott. Key highlights include:
The Polar Museum
Located within the SPRI, the Polar Museum offers a chance to explore the history of polar exploration through a carefully curated selection of exhibits.
These displays showcase the bravery and challenges faced by explorers, as well as the scientific research being conducted in the polar regions. Highlights of the museum include:
Scientific Research & Exhibitions
In addition to its historical collection, the SPRI also supports modern research into polar science, climate change, and environmental studies. Temporary exhibitions and public talks often highlight the latest findings and research from the institute, providing insight into contemporary polar research efforts.
Visitors may also get a glimpse of ongoing projects related to global environmental issues, such as ice core sampling and glaciology.
Rare Books and Archival Materials
The SPRI houses a remarkable library containing rare books, maps, and manuscripts about polar exploration and science.
These resources are invaluable for researchers and anyone interested in the scientific and exploratory history of the polar regions.
Special Exhibitions & Events
The Polar Museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, focusing on different aspects of polar research, art, and history.
Additionally, the SPRI organises public lectures, seminars, and outreach programs aimed at educating the public about polar science, climate change, and the environment.
The institute also regularly holds family-friendly events and workshops, which engage younger audiences in the science of the polar regions.
How Long Should You Spend at the Scott Polar Research Institute?
A visit to the Polar Museum usually takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on your level of interest. If you're particularly interested in the history of polar exploration or the institute’s scientific research, you may want to spend more time exploring the exhibits and learning about the latest research.
The museum offers a wealth of information in a relatively compact space, so it's easy to explore at your own pace.
Visitor Tips
Getting There
The Scott Polar Research Institute is located on Lensfield Road, just a short walk from the city centre.
It's easily accessible on foot or by bicycle, and there are several bus routes that stop nearby. If you're driving, parking in central Cambridge can be difficult, so it’s recommended to use one of the city's Park & Ride services.
Why Visit the Scott Polar Research Institute?
A visit to the Scott Polar Research Institute offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and science of polar exploration. Whether you’re fascinated by the legendary explorers of the early 20th century, interested in contemporary polar science, or concerned about the future of the polar regions in light of climate change, the institute provides an enriching and educational experience.
The Polar Museum offers an intimate and personal look at the challenges and triumphs of human exploration in the most extreme environments on Earth. If you’re in Cambridge, the Scott Polar Research Institute is a must-visit for anyone interested in adventure, science, and the future of our planet.
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