What is it?
Throughout time, humans have tried all sorts of bizarre ways to cure their ailments. Bear grease for baldness? Tried that. Ground up human skull for epilepsy? That too. Cocaine for a sore throat? You betcha. Those are just some of the medicinal remedies you can find out about at the Museum of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS), a short walk from Tower Bridge. Founded in 1842, the museum holds over 45,000 objects relating to the history of pharmacy and medicine, tracing developments from the uses of leeches and mummified hands to the discovery of penicillin. Stuff on display include medicines dating from the sixteenth century to the present day, drug storage containers, medical cartoons, advertising, dispensing equipment and a photo archive. The ground floor displays are open without appointment, and further collections are available to view by pre-booked guided tour.
Why go?
To be both mystified and amazed at the often ridiculous, frequently miraculous history of pharmaceuticals.
Don’t miss
The taxidermy Nile crocodile that tells the story of exactly what crocodiles, alligators and other exotic animals had to do with pharmacies back in the day.
When to visit
The RPS Museum is open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.
Ticket info
Entry to the RPS Museum is completely free but if you want a guided tour, you need to pay £10 per person and book in advance.
Time Out tip
As long as the exhibits don’t get your tummy turning, after visiting the museum stroll over to St Katharine Docks, central London’s only marina. It’s packed with fabulous restaurants, pubs, cafes and even more history to sink your teeth into.