The College’s British Optical Association Museum hosts hundreds of visitors at Open House 2026  

The College’s British Optical Association Museum hosts hundreds of visitors at Open House 2026  

The College of Optometrists opened the doors to its historic headquarters for the annual Open House and Heritage Open Days events yesterday, Sunday 13 September, and hosted over 371 visitors to the British Optical Association Museum.

This year marks the 125^th anniversary of the Museum, which is home to the world’s oldest collection of spectacles, vision aids, sight-testing equipment and eye-popping exhibits relating to the history of vision and eye health.

This year’s event featured a pop-up exhibition curated by Gary Kousoulou, which brought together eye charts from different languages, cultures, and moments in optometry’s history. The Museum also launched two new two new displays at the event: Teddy Roosevelt’s pince-nez and the 1920s foundation stone of the old London Refraction Hospital.

Expert volunteers from the Ophthalmic Antiques International Collectors’ Club, College staff and members of the College Council were on hand to guide visitors around the historic collections and answer questions.

Neil Handley, Curator of the British Optical Association Museum, commented, “What makes our Open House events at the museum so special is our team’s ability to make each one of our enthusiastic visitors feel welcomed and valued. As always, I’d like to extend our thanks to our dedicated volunteers who make hosting such a large event for the public possible. Every year it’s wonderful to see hundreds more people learn about the history of optics and eye care and explore our fascinating collections.”

Book your visit

The College’s museum is open throughout the year for pre-booked guided tours for both members and the general public. Find out more.