Great Scott! - Antarctica in Black & White

As the Scott Centenary celebrations draw to a climax over the next few months, the Heart of the Great Alone exhibition finally arrives in London this week.  Whilst the Queen is busy gallivanting around Australia, Buckingham Palace welcomes this incredible collection of photographs taken during historic Antarctic expeditions led by the legendary Scott and Shackleton.  This unique insight into the experiences of our polar explorers includes images from Scott’s Terra Nova expedition of 1910–13 and Shackleton’s Endurance expedition of 1914–16. 
 
We certainly don't want to miss this rare opportunity to view such a personal account of their journeys both physical and emotional through the world's harshest landscapes, but if you're not able to get to Buckingham Palace before the exhibition ends in April then perhaps have a quiet word with Santa instead - if you're lucky, you'll find a copy of the accompanying book in your stocking on Christmas morning!  
 
And if you've been really good this year, Santa might also treat you to another great new book, hot off the press this week:  the excellent 'The Lost Photographs of Captain Scott' features Scott's own photographs, taken during his final Antarctic expedition 100 years ago. A truly fascinating record of an epic journey and an inspirational man.
 
'The Heart of the Great Alone' exhibition at the Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace, runs from 21 October 2011 – 15 April 2012.   Tickets from £7.50 per adult. 
 
The accompanying book, 'The Heart of the Great Alone: Scott, Shackleton and Antarctic Photography' by David Hempleman-Adams, Sophie Gordon and Emma Stuart (Royal Collection Publications), is available in hardback at £29.95.
 
And finally, 'The Lost Photographs of Captain Scott' by David M Wilson, published by Little, Brown, is on sale now for £30.  Enjoy!