30 August 2023

Visit the College headquarters as part of London's Open House Festival

The College of Optometrists will be opening its doors to visitors once again as part of the Open House London event on Sunday 10 September.

The public, members and fellows will have the opportunity to look around the College’s historic headquarters in the West End of London and visit the British Optical Association Museum featuring the world’s oldest collection of spectacles and vision aids.

Open House London attracts people from all over the UK, as well as those further afield. The event is normally held every year for one weekend in September, during which a wide range of buildings usually closed to the public can be visited completely free of charge. 

Dr Neil Handley, Curator of the museum, said: “We’re really looking forward to hosting our first Open House event in four years. This time, we’re also running the event under the Heritage Open Days banner, which we're hoping will attract visitors who have not yet experienced the British Optical Association Museum.

"Visitors will be able to see our newly refurbished space, filled with historical items from our inspiring collection. It's a great opportunity for anyone to learn more about the wonderful world of optometry, both past and present." 

The College will be open to walk-in visitors from 12pm to 5.00pm on Sunday 10 September 2023. Entrance is free of charge and there is no need to pre-book. 

We look forward to welcoming you!

Related further reading

A message from Leon Davies, College President

The historian and curator talks about his 25-year career at the College.