A Brief History of the Royal Philatelic Society London
Founded in 1869 as The Philatelic Society, London, the RPSL was envisioned by a group of passionate collectors who sought to elevate the study and appreciation of philately. The Society’s royal patronage in 1906 marked a new era, with “Royal” becoming part of its name and securing its status as a leading authority in the field. Over the decades, the RPSL has played a pivotal role in philatelic research, authentication, and the publication of The London Philatelist journal.
Exhibitions and Collections
At the heart of the RPSL is the Spear Museum of Philatelic History, home to an extensive collection of rare stamps, postal artifacts, and significant archival materials. Regularly updated exhibitions showcase themes such as the Channel Islands Specialists’ Society anniversary and the history of global mail. Permanent collections include rarities from the British Commonwealth and specialized reference materials supporting the Society’s expert authentication work.
Special exhibits and thematic displays are often organized around major anniversaries and global events—recent highlights include the “Clash of Empires: Anglo-Zulu War Exhibition” and displays celebrating the Universal Postal Union’s 150th anniversary.
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
General Visiting Hours
- Monday to Friday 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday (Exhibitions only) 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Check event calendar for specifics)
- Closed Sundays and public holidays
Visits to the museum, library, and archives are typically by appointment. Check the RPSL Events Calendar for exhibition openings and special events.
Admission and Tickets
- General Admission Free for members and, by appointment, for non-members.
- Special Events Some lectures, exhibitions, and festivals (such as the Crawford Festival) may require advance booking or tickets. Details are available on the RPSL Events Page.
- Booking Appointments can be made via phone (+44 20 7486 1044) or email ([email protected]).
Events and Activities
Special Events and Lectures
The RPSL frequently hosts lectures, workshops, and award ceremonies that draw leading philatelists, researchers, and the wider public. Highlights include the annual Crawford Medal presentation and thematic displays.
The Crawford Festival
A flagship event held in late June, the Crawford Festival is dedicated to philatelic literature and research, featuring talks, displays, and opportunities for networking among enthusiasts.
Regular Society Meetings
Weekly and monthly meetings feature expert presentations and allow members and guests to share insights and collections. Many events are also broadcast via Zoom for international participation.
Accessibility and Facilities
The RPSL headquarters at 15 Abchurch Lane is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities. Facilities include accessible restrooms, ramps, and, during events, refreshments such as tea, coffee, and biscuits. The premises are a no-smoking area, including e-cigarettes.
If you have specific accessibility needs, contact the Society in advance to ensure a comfortable visit. (RPSL Accessibility Page)
Getting There and Nearby Attractions
- Address 15 Abchurch Lane, London, EC4N 7BW
- By Underground Bank, Monument, and Cannon Street stations are within a five-minute walk.
- By Bus Multiple routes serve the City of London area.
- Parking Limited in the immediate vicinity; public transportation is recommended.
Nearby Historical Sites
Make the most of your visit by exploring nearby attractions such as:
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
- Museum of London
- Bank of England Museum
- Leadenhall Market
Guided Tours and Visitor Tips
- Guided Tours Available by appointment for individuals and groups, offering expert insights into the collections and society history.
- Photography Generally permitted in exhibitions, though some displays may have restrictions. Always check with staff.
- Membership Consider joining the RPSL for exclusive access to member-only events and resources (RPSL Membership).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the Royal Philatelic Society London’s visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Saturdays for exhibitions as scheduled. Closed Sundays and public holidays.
Q: Is admission free?
A: Admission is generally free for members and by appointment for non-members. Special events may require tickets.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment, particularly for groups.
Q: Is the building wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with accessible facilities throughout.
Q: How do I get to the RPSL?
A: Closest Underground stations: Bank, Monument, and Cannon Street. Use public transport for convenience.
Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Photography is allowed in many areas; always confirm with staff regarding specific exhibitions.
