The Royal College of Nursing Library and Museum

The Royal College of Nursing Library and Museum is home to Europe’s largest nursing specific collection. We run a dynamic programme of exhibitions and events which explore the past, present and future of nursing in the UK.

The Art of Nursing

Main Exhibition Space, Ground Floor

This new major exhibition presents art by and about nurses - revealing how they have been mythologised, frequently as saints, angels and heroes, usually as female, predominantly as white. It explores the role of art in constructing and also resisting such stereotypes, by exposing the complexity, labour and expertise of nursing, perhaps the most artful of professions.

A provocative introduction to a complex subject, the show integrates a range of photography, rare books, ephemera and artworks dating from the 19th century to the present day. Alongside our own collections, it features a number of loans together with commissions by artists including Peter Liversidge and Rachel Mulligan.

Prison Nursing Unlocked: A history of care and justice

Nursing History Room, Lower Ground Floor

This exhibition explores the fascinating history of health care in prisons, from the work of early reformers like Elizabeth Fry to the vital contribution that nurses make to prisoner health today. Discover the experiences of suffragettes, force-fed in Holloway Prison, the formation of secure hospitals like Broadmoor, and artwork created by prisoners and nurses at HM Prison Eastwood Park and HM Prison Warren Hill.

Events Programme

We run events online and in person. This includes talks, tours, creative arts, family events and more. Look at our events page for upcoming details or sign up to our mailing list.

Where to find us

Royal College of Nursing Library and Museum

20 Cavendish Square, London, W1G ORN

Nearest tube: Oxford Circus

Opening times

Monday - Friday: 10am - 7pm.

Saturdays: 10am - 5pm.

Sundays and public holidays: Closed.