Clockmakers' Company Museum

The museum of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers, founded in 1631, illustrates 500 years of timekeeping.

Situated in the public library adjoining the Guildhall, this small museum is the world's oldest collection of timepieces with 700 exhibits, including some 600 watches and clocks dating from the 16th to 19th centuries.

Items on display include longcase clocks, the first electric clock, Mary Queen of Scot's skull-shaped watch, and the watch Sir Edmund Hilary wore on his successful ascent of Everest in 1953.

One of the most important technological advances, the marine chronometer for navigation, took place around the Guildhall, where clockmakers have worked from the earliest days of the guild. The museum displays John Harrison's 18th century prizewinning chronometer, which allowed ships to accurately chart their position for the first time.

A good time to visit is at noon when the chiming clocks are at their best.