Optical museum opens its doors to hundreds visitors for Open House London

Another treat for guests was the chance to see a piece of fashion artistry, that made a runner up of its designer in last year’s Great British Sewing Bee.

The outfit is a trendy two-piece, comprising a skirt and blouse with a striking eye design. Its designer, Vicki Reid, created it for the semi-finals of the national BBC competition, and it is on loan to the Museum until the end of 2024.

A little-known detail is that the stately College building is actually said to be haunted. 

While we don’t believe visitors encountered ‘George’, who is said to walk the corridors and pathway outside in search for his wife, 'Mary', visitors would have bumped into our team of expert volunteers from the Ophthalmic Antiques International Collectors’ Club. With approximately 150 years of professional experience between them, John, Roy, Vic and Valerie were on hand to explain the exhibits and answer any questions.

If you missed this year's Open House Day, don't despair. Members of the public can pre-book to attend one of our museum tours throughout the year. We are also planning to open our doors again at next year's event. 

This is what some of our visitors had to say:

"Fascinating exhibits on the history of optometry. I won't take my optician for granted anymore." - Dee McConville

“Wonderful - brought to life by such knowledgeable volunteers!” - Joy Tisdale and Laura Tisdale from Hampton

“It's taken me 43 years to get here! Thank you!” - Jane Hunter-Smith, a College member from Hampton