Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
In 2019, the College converted a 19th-century hop warehouse and a 1980s office building, joined by a striking helical staircase, to form its new home in Union Street, London Bridge. It is also the home of a number of other women’s health organisations. The Heritage Collections can be viewed by prior appointment – please see our website for details, or contact us at heritage@rcog.org.uk
The Heritage Collections uniquely cover the history of obstetrics, gynaecology and midwifery. The accredited Archives contain papers discussing the founding of the College in 1929, case books, clinical guidelines, and a rare books collection. The Museum has a remarkable collection of obstetric forceps, from the secret early 17th century Chamberlen instruments, re-discovered in an attic in 1813, to those used today. Paintings and sculptures depicting personalities and scenes related to the specialties form an important part of the collection.
The RCOG now also houses the collections – papers and objects – of the Royal College of Midwives.
Heritage blog: rcogheritage.wordpress.com
Website: Heritage collections: Archives and museum | RCOG
Visitor Information
Opening Hours:
The RCOG and RCM Heritage Collections are open by prior appointment for research and guided tours. Please give at least a week’s notice and suggest alternative dates to help us find availability for bookings.
The Curator usually works Tuesday–Thursday, and the Archivist Wednesday–Friday.
Please see our website for more details: Heritage collections: Archives and museum | RCOG
Email: heritage@rcog.org.uk
Admission:
Free admission
Accessibility:
Step-free access throughout the building.
Events & Exhibitions
Rabbits and the Rose Garden: Rare Books at the RCOG
Thursday 20 July 2023 | 4:05PM - Sunday 31 December 2023 | 12:00AM
The College’s historic book collection is being showcased in a new exhibition. ‘Rabbits and the Rose Garden: Rare Books at the RCOG’ will be on display at 10-18 Union Street until the end of 2023 (except 13–14 September).
Highlights include our oldest book (published 1478); a signed copy of Florence Nightingale’s notes on setting up maternity hospitals; and the revised 1555 edition of Vesalius’s key work on anatomy De Humani Corporis Fabrica. Also on display are curiosities including an unusual attempt to mend a torn page (not sticky tape!), passionate promotion and a secret code!
Visits by appointment only, Wednesdays and Thursdays (subject to availability) – please contact: Heritage@rcog.org.uk
Full Details
Family History
If your ancestor was an obstetrician, gynaecologist or midwife, information in the RCOG Library and Archives could help you find out more about their life and work, or else we may be able to direct you to useful resources.
Location & Travel Links
10-18 Union Street
London
SE1 1SZ
London Bridge
London Bridge
Served by a number of buses
