offices
Bennetts Associates, 2014
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists, 18 Stephenson Way, NW1 2HD
The museum houses hundreds of artefacts that provide a rich history of the instruments, innovations and patient care over the last 300 years. There are glass cabinets that display some of the artefacts. Much of this collection and its display has been built up by Richard Keeler, who is a widely published expert on ophthalmic history. He has been the Honorary Museum Curator since 1999.
Euston, Euston Square, King's Cross St. Pancras, Warren Street
King's Cross
18, 24, 29, 30
N/A - the tour will be inside the building.
A portable wheelchair ramp is available to enter the building.
There is likely to be noises from HS2 outside of the building. Seating will be available at specific points on the tour.
Guided tour
10:00–10:45
How to book
Bookings will open at midday on 19 August. You won't be able to book a ticket before then.
Guided tour
11:00–11:45
How to book
Bookings will open at midday on 19 August. You won't be able to book a ticket before then.
Guided tour
13:00–13:45
How to book
Bookings will open at midday on 19 August. You won't be able to book a ticket before then.
Guided tour
14:00–14:45
How to book
Bookings will open at midday on 19 August. You won't be able to book a ticket before then.
Guided tour
15:00–15:45
How to book
Bookings will open at midday on 19 August. You won't be able to book a ticket before then.
Guided tour
16:00–16:45
How to book
Bookings will open at midday on 19 August. You won't be able to book a ticket before then.
Join us for a guided tour of The Royal College of Ophthalmologists’ museum collection at 18 Stephenson Way, exploring the development of eye care through more than 300 years of ophthalmic history.
Visitors will be introduced to four displays from the College’s museum collection, featuring more than 200 historic artefacts. The tour will look at the evolution of cataract surgery, surgical equipment through the ages, teaching and testing methods used in ophthalmology, and some of the more unusual curiosities from the history of eye care.
Alongside the museum displays, visitors will also have the opportunity to view the College’s training suite, where ophthalmologists develop and refine the skills used in modern eye care. Together, the tour offers a rare chance to see how the profession has evolved — from historic instruments and early techniques to contemporary education and training.
The museum is not usually open for public access, with visits normally arranged by appointment, so this Open House Festival event offers a special opportunity to explore the College’s collection and learn more about the history and future of ophthalmology.