42 Craven Street, WC2N 5NG

Phone:

020-7766 4353

Website:

www.college-optometrists.org/college/museum

Opening times:

Mon–Fri 9:30–17:00 (phone ahead)

How to get there:

Tube: Charing Cross

Entry fee:

Basic tour is free, extended costs £5 per person.

Additional information:

Limited disabled access

This small museum (founded 1901) within the College of Optometrists’ building has a fascinating collection of optical-related items: over 3,000 pairs of spectacles dating from the 17th century onwards; eye glasses; pince-nez; lorgnettes; and monocles. There is also a collection of fans with spy glasses in the handles, instruments used by opticians and a collection of glass eyes. Dr Johnson’s spectacles can be seen, as can C.P. Snow’s, late Mother Queen’s and a pair of 17th-century green-tinted ones, similar to those described by Samuel Pepys in his diary. Pepys was afraid that he was losing his sight, and reported some benefit to his eyes from the wearing of green-tinted lenses. Among the paintings is a portrait of the famous American statesman and scientist Benjamin Franklin, wearing silver folding nose spectacles. Franklin lived a few doors down, at no. 36. He is usually credited with the invention of bifocals. As well as the museum, a pre-booked tour of the College Meeting Rooms is possible, which includes the Council Chamber and anteroom, the Panelled Room and the Print Room. The latter’s walls are covered with a dense hang of prints showing scientists, historical optical instruments, and famous people wearing spectacles. Such a display was the wish of J.H. Sutcliffe, Secretary of the British Optical Association from 1895. The museum is open most weekdays but pre-booking is essential as the college is a working building and the Meeting Rooms will sometimes be in use.