Lunchtime talk: Sir Isaac Newton
Dr Alice Marples explores the life and times of Sir Isaac Newton, revealing a less well-known part of the legendary scientist's career 300 years after his death.
While Newton is buried in Scientists’ Corner, he was a man of many talents, including managing the currency for 30 years at the Tower of London’s Royal Mint. Discover how both Newton’s role at the heart of a financial revolution and his science was profoundly shaped by and connected to the changes going on in the world around him.
About the Lunchtime Talk Series
Held on the second Wednesday of every month at St Margaret’s Church, our Lunchtime Talk series invites visitors to explore different aspects of Westminster Abbey’s rich history. Each talk features expert speakers and unique perspectives, perfect for anyone interested in art, architecture, and heritage.
About Alice Marples
Dr Alice Marples is a historian of early modern science and culture, particularly focused on communication, collecting and empire in the early eighteenth century. She has held research posts at King’s College London, University of Manchester, The Royal Society, the National Archives, and the University of Oxford, among others. Her first book is entitled The Transactioneer: Hans Sloane and the Rise of Public Natural History in Eighteenth-Century (December 2026). She works in the Research Development team at The British Library.
Ticketing information
This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.
If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.
Free for Associates but booking is required. Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Timings
Doors will open at 12:45pm and the talk will begin at 1:00pm. There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1:40pm.
Meeting location
This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information.
