The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) is the oldest medical college in England. The museum, archive and library collections in our care tell the story of the RCP, doctors, and the history of medicine.  

The RCP was founded in 1518 by royal charter from Henry VIII, to regulate the practice of medicine. The RCP’s core mission is to improve patient care and reduce illness.

The museum, heritage library and archive team care for collections of portraits, silverware, letters, rare books and medical instruments. You can see these on display in our Regent’s Park home, a Grade I listed building designed by architect Sir Denys Lasdun, which opened in 1964. 

When visiting look out for our:

• Fine art portraits and sculpture, which are displayed throughout the building
• Treasures Room containing the Prujean chest of 17th century surgical instruments, silver and fascinating Symons collection of artefacts which would have been used by physicians and for self-care in the home
• The extraordinary set of 17th-century human remains - John Finch's anatomical tables - which give a fascinating insight into dissection and discovery in anatomy
• Our temporary exhibition Healing words: the unofficial story of medical practice in England, 1500 - 1800’, 11 September 2024 – 25 July 2025
• And, if open, our fascinating Censors Room and Dorchester Library

We run regular free tours, Museum Lates and an exciting range of lectures, workshops and other events. We also offer pre-booked free school session and private group tours for a small fee.

The RCP today

Over the past 500 years the RCP has grown to become the leading professional membership organisation for physicians (doctors who work in hospitals), and today it is an independent charity representing over 40,000 doctors around the world.