Journeyman
Ideal for those at the beginning of their career in optics and vision care looking for extra support.
Founded in 1629, our purpose is the same now as it was then. We support better vision for all.
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.
To find out more, click below – or, even better, come and join us!
CURRENT MEMBERS: For all the latest news and information, please click on the Members' Login button at the top of this page
01 August 2024, 5:00 pm
The Spectacle Makers' are looking for bowlers to join their pétanque team, and supporters to cheer them on!
23 August 2024, 6:00 pm
Liz Shilling is hosting a local gathering at the Medway Yacht Club for Spectacle Makers, friends and family.
27 August 2024, 6:30 pm
Sign up to take part in the Spectacle Makers' Annual Quiz, open to all ages and areas of expertise!
03 September 2024, 11:00 am
Paul Shimell has organised a tour of the Essilor laboratory for Spectacle Makers living in or near Bristol. Space is limited!
04 September 2024, 11:00 am
Paul Shimell has organised a tour of the Essilor laboratory for Spectacle Makers living in or near Bristol. Space is limited!
13 September 2024, 11:00 am
The Master, Liz Shilling, invites members to join her for one or more activities taking advantage of The Great Outdoors. On Friday 13 September there will be a private tour, tasting and lunch at a Sussex vineyard; on Saturday 14 September members can join us at the fabulous West Dean College and Gardens, near Chichester, for a tour of the house and gardens and/or a picnic lunch. A form listing the options available will be sent to all members in January 2024.
19 September 2024, 5:30 pm
The Annual Spectacle Makers' Presentation Ceremony for award winners, new Liverymen and Freemen who have joined the Company in the last year. Those who are invited will receive an invitation from the Clerk.
20 September 2024, 12:00 pm
The Master will abseil down St Thomas' Hospital to raise money for The Spectacle Makers' Charity. Come along and support her from a safe vantage point!
24 September 2024, 12:30 pm
A lunch time guided walk around the Square Mile, led by a seasoned City Guide, in support of The Mayor's Appeal for City Giving Day.
29 September 2024, 11:00 am
Join the Spectacle Makers in this rare opportunity to recreate an ancient London tradition and exercise your right as a Freeman to drive sheep over one of London's bridges!
02 October 2024, 11:30 am
The Annual Service and Installation of the next Master Spectacle Maker and Wardens.
02 October 2024, 12:30 pm
Liverymen are invited to book for the Livery Court Luncheon following the installation of the Master and Wardens at St. Bride's.
12 October 2024, 1:00 pm
Join the Society on a family-friendly tour of UCL's Egyptian & Sudanese collections, open to members, Journeymen, friends and family.
25 November 2024, 6:30 pm
Save the date! The annual lecture will be delivered by Professor Jim Fujimoto. Booking not yet open.
05 December 2024, 12:30 pm
[Booking not open.] This year's December Court Lunch will be held at Painters' Hall in the City of London.
08 January 2025, 2:30 pm
Book by 1 June 2024 to secure your place at a classic West End spectacle starring Julian Clary and Jane McDonald.
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.
Ideal for those at the beginning of their career in optics and vision care looking for extra support.
Applying for Freedom of the Company is the first step to joining a community committed to better vision for all.
An invitation to the Livery, the highest level of membership, is a life long commitment.