We are the oldest existing optical body in the world, founded by Royal Charter in 1629.
Our purpose is the same now as it was then: to support better vision for all.
Rooted in tradition, we bring the best of our experience to bear on very modern professions. We seek to inspire future generations committed to visionary eye care, building on our rich heritage of almost 400 years.
We’re interested in everything that can be done to prevent unnecessary sight loss and enhance active living.
You don’t have to make spectacles or work in eye health to join our Company. Our members come from a wide range of professions. Their reach spreads far out from the City of London, right across the world.
Find out more – even better, come and join us!
CURRENT MEMBERS: For all the latest news, please log in to the Members’ Area.
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Upcoming Events
Society: Beating The Retreat
A Society trip to a fabulous Jubilee-flavoured Military Musical Spectacular on Horse Guards Parade, with fireworks. Optional light supper beforehand.
Annual Presentation Ceremony
A highlight of our calendar! We’ll be making awards and welcoming new Journeymen, Freemen, Freemen of the City and Liverymen. Come and join us and enjoy being in one of the City’s wonderful Livery Halls, not otherwise open to the public. Booking from summer 2022. Put the date in your diary now!
The Master’s Weekend in York and Gregorie Dinner
Open to Freemen and Liverymen and their families. We’ll be heading for the wonderful city of York. Join us from Friday afternoon for a full weekend of discovery and friendship, starting with afternoon tea at the iconic Betty’s of York, or just enjoy the ceremonial of the Gregorie Dinner (a Livery Dinner outside London) on […]
Annual Service, Installation of the Master and Wardens and Court Luncheon
Our Annual Service of Remembrance, Thanksgiving and Rededication (during which the new Master and Wardens will be installed) will take place at St Bride’s Church, Fleet St, at 11.30am. Open to all members and families of those we have lost in the last year. The Court Luncheon at Apothecaries’ Hall after the Service will be […]
December 2022 Court Luncheon
Our December lunches are always very popular. Booking will open in October 2022.
In 2020, The Guild of Human Resource Professionals helped our Court to work out a new Code of Conduct. It supports our 4 core values: Integrity, Inclusivity, Impartiality & Improved Vision for All.
We acknowledge with thanks the valuable support provided to our Company by members of The Worshipful Company of Marketors.
