The secret life of sewers

From the Big Stink and Bazalgette’s engineering feats to the infamous fatberg, the sewage pollution scandal, and the new super sewer — London's history is interwoven with what (and how) we flush away. Sewers are one of the most transformational interventions to human health in history, yet they are rarely understood or recognised for their impact.Join historian Professor Rosemary Ashton FBA, architectural theoretician Dr Paul Dobraszczyk, and prominent pollution activist Professor Peter Hammond as they reveal the captivating secrets of the systems that flow beneath us. Uncover the connections between Victorian engineering feats, London’s social history, and the politics of public health, and leave with a new appreciation for your toilet.
Alongside the discussion, explore London’s own ‘Cathedral of Sewage’, Crossness Pumping Station, through an immersive exhibition.

Discover more about future events by signing up for our Newsletter

As tickets are free, we release more than the available seats to account for no-shows.

• Entry is first-come, first-served. We recommend arriving early to avoid disappointment.
• A ticket does not guarantee entry to the main event space. If it reaches capacity, you'll be directed to the bar next door to watch a live stream.

This event will also be recorded and live-streamed on YouTube.

This event has live subtitles delivered by 121 Captions.

See information about the accessibility of the venue.

If you have any questions about this event, please refer to our Public Events FAQs. If your question is not answered, please email [email protected].

The British Academy is a registered charity, number 233176.

Info: In the Lecture Room and Wohl Gallery | Bar open in the Wohl Gallery

Info: Bar closes

Event venue & nearby stays

10-11 Carlton House Terrace, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace, London, United Kingdom

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.

Get the app →

Discover more events by tag