As commander of the British Antarctic Expedition [I] beg respectfully to inform His Majesty that the expedition hoisted Her Majesty’s Union Jack ninety seven miles from the South Pole …

Telegram from Ernest Shackleton, 25 March 1909

Throughout history, members of the Royal Family have leant support to the arts and sciences through visits to cultural and scientific establishments and in the patronage of specific institutions, and even of expeditions, as documented throughout the Royal Archives.

Their personal interests and abilities in these spheres can also be traced in the papers in the Royal Archives, and in their correspondence with men of letters and scientists.

Click on the thumbnails to see the full transcript and image for each item; page numbers relate to their location in the book: