The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers

Supporting better vision for all, since 1629

We are the only City of London Livery company dedicated to eye health.

We are the oldest existing optical body in the world.

Founded in 1629, our purpose is the same now as it was then. We support better vision for all. 

In the 21st Century we believe that nobody should be held back because of their vision.

 Today, you do not have to be involved in making spectacles to join our Company. Our members represent over 35 different professions in eye health, sight loss and many other fields. Through them, our reach spreads out from the City of London, right across the world. 

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 increase access to work, sport and culture for people with partial or full sight loss. 

Rooted in tradition, we bring the best of our experience to bear on the continuing need for eye health provision, helping education, employment, life and leisure. 

To find out more, click below – or, even better, come and join us!

Find out more



CURRENT MEMBERS: For all the latest news and information, please click on the Members' Login button at the top of this page

Upcoming Events

12 December 2023

December Court Luncheon

Booking for the popular festive lunch will open to Liverymen in early September/late October.

In Person | Learn more

30 January 2024

Agatha Christie’s Mousetrap

The Society have organised a trip to the West End's longest running production! Tickets need to be booked via Amanda Lees (contact details in the members' directory) by Monday 25 September.

In Person | Learn more

12 March 2024

Spring Court Lunch - March

Court Luncheon - for Liverymen and their guests. Booking will open in January 2024

In Person | Learn more

23 March 2024

[Sold Out!] Purcell Club Tour

The Society have secured a limited number of tickets for the renowned historical music tour of Westminster Abbey.

In Person | Learn more

16 April 2024

The 2024 Livery Dinner

This year's Livery Dinner will take place at Stationers' Hall.  Booking will open in January 2024, for Liverymen and corporate supporters and their guests.

In Person | Learn more

Membership

The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers is an open company, which means we welcome members with professional backgrounds beyond the vision care and sight loss sectors.

Journeyman

Journeyman

Ideal for those at the beginning of their career in optics and vision care looking for extra support.

Find out more >

Freeman

Freeman

Applying for Freedom of the Company is the first step to joining a community committed to better vision for all.

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Corporate Supporters