Optical museum to open its doors

Visitors enjoying exhibits at the British Optical Association Museum

The College of Optometrists will open its doors to the public and members as part of the annual Open House Festival and Heritage Open Days events on Sunday 14 September.

Visitors can drop-in for self-guided tours of the College’s British Optical Association Museum, library and meeting rooms, home to the world’s oldest collection of spectacles and vision aids. You can also enjoy historic art works, sight-testing equipment, and curios relating to eye health over the centuries.

Explore the collection of artificial eyes (healthy and diseased), try on some historic and vintage eyewear (either physically or virtually), and enjoy the extensive collection of vision aids and equipment. 

Discover Dr Samuel Johnson’s and Marilyn Monroe’s specs, as well as iconic eyewear from blockbuster movies, including Harry Potter and The Matrix.

The College of Optometrists occupies two Grade II listed Georgian buildings in Craven Street in the West End of London. Volunteers, some in historic costume, will be on hand to answer questions and share their knowledge.

Dr Neil Handley, British Optical Association Museum curator, said: “Opening our doors for the Open House Festival is an annual highlight and a fantastic opportunity for people to learn more about the history of eye care and optometry. We look forward to welcoming visitors and sharing our collections and knowledge at our open day”.

The College will be open to walk-in visitors from 12pm to 5pm on Sunday 14 September. Entrance is free of charge and there is no need to pre-book. 

Find out more at Open House Festival and Heritage Open Days.