Everything that happens below ground sustains all life above it - yet we rarely think about this mysterious, dark underland.

In this talk, Frank Ashwood scratches the surface and takes us on an eye-opening safari through this precious ecosystem, from the ancient forests of New Zealand to the vast black soil deposits of the US and China. Every layer of the pedosphere is a world of its own, each more alien than the last as we travel deeper into the Earth.

Through thoughtful insights into winding roots, interconnecting fungal networks, wriggling creatures and mind-blowing microbial life, alongside a showcase of stunning photography, Frank will show that without soil, there would be no life as we know it.

Meet pioneering plants and minute animals that are essential to the health and wellbeing of our planet. Learn how soil makes our very existence possible, and marvel at soil as the one the building blocks of evolution, transforming decaying matter into the birthplace of new life.

Please note: This event is recommended for ages 13+

How To Get Your Tickets

1. Book your desired number of tickets and await an email from us confirming your order. This is NOT a ticket.

2. Present your confirmation on arrival at the venue. Ensure that you take personal ID with you or you may be turned away

Pricing Information

• For this event, there are two ticket types: Free Tickets, and Free Tickets with £5 Donation + TFG booking fee

• For Free Tickets, no further payment applies beyond the TFG booking fee

• For Free Tickets with £5 Donation + TFG booking fee, the total payment per ticket is £7.95. The full £5 donation goes straight to the Royal Institution to continue their excellent scientific education work

• Please note: Tickets for RI Members and RI Patrons retail at £7.90 on the third-party site

Additional Information

• Please note: This event is recommended for ages 13+

• Doors open: 6:45pm | Event starts: 7pm

• Copies of Frank Ashwood's book, 'The world beneath our feet', will be available for purchase after the talk

• For further event information, please visit here

Accessibility Information

• Please note: We recommend, where you have specific access requirements, bookings are made directly through the event organiser, however, we are here to assist where possible. Please get in touch with us prior to booking if you have access requirements. For accessibility information, please visit here

Key Terms of Sale

• Tickets are non-refundable / non-exchangeable
• Tickets cannot be resold or transferred
• The account holder must be in attendance at the event
These are the key terms. Full terms apply and are available here