Apothecaries' Hall
Step into the oldest livery hall in London and discover the rich legacy of medicine and pharmacy at Apothecaries' Hall.
Apothecaries' Hall in London is the oldest surviving livery hall in the City, dating back to the 17th century. Rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666, it stands as a testament to the evolution of medicine and pharmacy. The hall houses historic interiors, rare drug jars, and significant stained glass, reflecting centuries of medical heritage and civic tradition.
A brief summary to Apothecaries' Hall
- Black Friars Ln, London, EC4V 6ER, GB
- +442072361189
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the Society’s website for guided tours and special events, as access to certain rooms may be limited.
- Photography is allowed in most areas, but be respectful of the historic artifacts and collections.
- Visit the nearby Temple Bar for a complementary historical experience, as it is the last surviving gateway to the City of London.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the District or Circle line to Blackfriars station, which is a 5-minute walk from Apothecaries' Hall. The station is fully accessible and offers step-free access to the hall.
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Walking
From the City of London, walk along Blackfriars Lane, which takes about 10 minutes from St. Paul’s Cathedral. The route is flat and accessible, with clear signage to the hall.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including the 4, 11, 15, 23, 26, 76, and 172, stop near Blackfriars station, providing easy access to the hall. The journey from central London takes about 15 minutes.
Apothecaries' Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Apothecaries' Hall
Historic Foundations
Apothecaries' Hall occupies a site steeped in centuries of history, originally part of the Dominican Priory of Black Friars dissolved in 1538. The Worshipful Society of Apothecaries acquired the property in 1632, making it the oldest extant livery hall in the City of London. Rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666, the hall has survived wars, fires, and urban change, retaining its status as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and Grade I listed building. Its architecture reflects the evolution of the City, with 17th-century interiors and later additions that speak to the Society’s changing roles.Medical Legacy
The Society of Apothecaries played a pivotal role in the development of modern medicine. Incorporated by royal charter in 1617, the Society became a major center for the manufacture and sale of drugs, founding the Chelsea Physic Garden in 1673. The Apothecaries Act of 1815 granted the Society the power to license and regulate medical practitioners, shaping the profession as we know it today. The hall’s archives and artifacts trace the journey from apothecary to general practitioner, with rare drug jars, pill tiles, and portraits of key figures such as Gideon de Laune, the Society’s founder.Architectural Treasures
The hall’s courtyard and interiors are a showcase of historic craftsmanship. The north and west ranges, designed by Thomas Lock in the late 17th century, feature well-preserved interiors, while the Great Hall boasts Irish oak panelling and a minstrels gallery. The Court Room is panelled in oak and adorned with stained glass windows depicting the Society’s Coat of Arms and the Stuart Royal Arms. The entrance hall staircase, constructed in 1670, and the restored coat-of-arms in the courtyard are highlights of the building’s architectural heritage.Visitor Experience
Visitors to Apothecaries' Hall can explore the historic interiors, view the Society’s collections, and learn about the evolution of medicine and pharmacy. The hall is open for tours and events, offering a unique glimpse into the world of apothecaries and their contributions to medical science. The atmosphere is one of quiet reverence, with the sense of stepping back in time to an era when medicine was both an art and a science.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
