The Royal Institution, located in the City of Westminster, is a center for scientific research and education. It recieved its royal charter from King George III in 1800. That same year the first lecture was given by Dr. Thomas Garnett. It was founded by leading scientists of the day including Henry Cavendish to share scientific knowledge and encourage scientific discovery. The Institution was initially funded by the Society for Bettering the Conditions and Improving the Comforts of the Poor. The Royal Institution is perhaps most famous for its Christmas lectures, which were started by Michael Faraday in 1825. It is housed at 21 Albemarle Street.
In The Romance of the Shop, Lord Watergate, a physiologist is giving a lecture at the Royal Institution and requests that Phyllis make some slides for him.
Direct Quotes from the novel:
"I wonder,' said Lord Watergate, 'if they would think it worthwhile to prepare some slides for me?'
'For the Royal Institution lectures?' Darrell sat down on the piano as he spoke, and ran his hands over the keys. 'She is a charming creature- Phyllis." (Chapt. IX)
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Institution
