Scott Polar Research Institute, Cambridge (must see)

The Scott Polar Research Institute (SPRI), situated in Cambridge, is dedicated to the study of polar regions and glaciology. Functioning under the University of Cambridge's Department of Geography, SPRI is located on Lensfield Road. It was established in 1920 by Frank Debenham as a national tribute to Captain Robert Falcon Scott and his team, who tragically perished in 1912 during their return from the South Pole.

SPRI's research encompasses a wide array of disciplines within the environmental sciences, social sciences, and humanities, focusing particularly on the Arctic and Antarctic. The institute is staffed by around 60 personnel, including academic researchers, library and support staff, along with postgraduate students, associates, and fellows engaged in various research programs. It also plays host to the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research, underscoring its integral role in global polar research initiatives.

One of the institute's key features is the Polar Museum. This museum showcases a diverse collection of items including artifacts, documents, and photographs that span the breadth of polar history and exploration. Its exhibits highlight significant themes such as the search for the Northwest Passage, the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration, and contemporary issues related to polar research and policy. Noteworthy are the displays of Arctic art, cultural artifacts, and poignant relics like the last letters of Captain Scott.

SPRI also houses the world’s most comprehensive polar library and archives, which include the Thomas H. Manning Archive. This repository offers an unparalleled collection of manuscripts relevant to polar research and exploration. The library has been meticulously assembled since the 1920s and serves a wide audience ranging from scientists and scholars to industry stakeholders. It provides invaluable resources on topics such as the exploration and exploitation of natural resources, environmental impact assessments, ice-strengthened shipping, and the challenges of construction and transportation in frigid climates.

Why You Should Visit:
The museum isn't huge – you can do a thorough visit in an hour – but what's here is good. You can see the kinds of clothing the explorers had to wear and see some of their hand-written journals as well as get a sense of the frankly gripping circumstances that they lived (and died) in. All would find it interesting – primary school, secondary school, and adults. The audio tours, set for adults or children, come highly recommended.

Tip:
Look up after entering to see two domes picturing the polar maps – beautiful.
Also, check out the shop as it's well-stocked with books about the polar regions.