Archives

The archives contain almost complete records of the Royal College of Physician’s activities over almost 500 years.

Institutional archives

From the founding charter to 20th century reports on the effects of smoking, the institutional archives contain a wealth of material on the RCP role in relation to contemporary medical advances.

The institutional archives (pdf)

Legal documents

The College was founded so that physicians could be formally licensed to practice and those who were not qualified could be exposed and punished. The archives contain many records defining the RCP’s changing role in setting standards in medical practice.

The legal documents (pdf)

Manuscript collection

An eclectic collection of fourteenth to nineteenth century manuscripts includes works on astrology, alchemy, religion, travel, medical theory and medical practice.

The manuscript collection (pdf)

Personal papers

Personal papers of past fellows from the 16th century to the 20th century provide glimpses into the personal lives and social concerns of many distinguished physicians.

The personal papers of past fellows and other medical personalities (pdf)

Family history

If you or someone you know is researching family history and has a medical ancestor, use our research guide to help you find out more.

Family history research guide (pdf)

Access

The archives are available via appointment only. All research visitors must complete a reader registration form on their first visit.

Reader Registration instructions (pdf)

Terms of access to archives and manuscripts (pdf)

External finding aids

• A2A(Access to archives) - the website is hosted by the National Archives and provides full details of many of the RCP’s archives
• AIM25 (Archives in London and the M25 area) - the website provides summaries of many of the College's collections of personal papers.

Other historical resources at the RCP

Lives of the fellows

The RCP has an almost complete collection of obituaries of past fellows since 1518, known as Munk’s Roll. It provides a unique resource for those interested in medical, social and family history.

Find out more and search the Munk’s Roll database

Library

Our rare book and special collections hold material on RCP activities and the lives of physicians from the 16th century to the present day.  

Rare books and special collections 

Museum and garden  

Our museum collections of portraits, silver and medical artefacts are displayed throughout our celebrated Grade I listed headquarters in Regent’s Park

Our garden contains over 1,300 plants, each used in some way as medicine around the world over the past 3,000 years.  

Visit the RCP museum and garden.

Contact the Archives

Tel: 020 3075 1543

Email: history@rcplondon.ac.uk