Museum of the Order of St John
What Visitors Say
This is quite a small museum which tells the history of the Order of St John and the modern day St John's ambulance. It's beautifully put together and free to visit. There's also a lovely garden just across the road.
Attended one of the tours yesterday. Fantastic story of the foundation of the Order and its links to the UK as well as the story of the site. Only negative is that the tour feels a little short, and 45 minutes is probably not enough time to appreciate the history of the building. The tour overran and even then, there felt like it could have been 90 minutes. Would strongly recommend.
This was great. Off the beaten path and wonderful. My son wanted to go so we did it and took the tour. Our guide, Carey was wonderful. This is a must do.
It is a really small, quiet, and free museum with a small team of dedicated and kind staff. I went as part of a uni trip on Friday, and we had an insightful guide about the history of the Hospitalier Knights from the crusades. The building is very ornate and rich with history, and we had the opportunity to go upstairs and handle some valuable artefacts, which was the highlight of the trip. I very much recommend going. I unfortunately couldn't visit the crypt 😔 because it was closed, but I'm hoping to see it next time...
Nestled away in the charming Clerkenwell district of London lies a treasure trove of history – The Museum of the Order of St John. While it may not be the most well-known museum in the city, a visit here is a rewarding experience for anyone interested in chivalry, medical history, and the fascinating story of a centuries-old order. From the moment you step through the historic gatehouse, you're transported back in time. Interactive displays and informative panels bring the story of the Order of St John to life, from its humble beginnings as a hospice for pilgrims in Jerusalem to its modern-day role as a global humanitarian organisation. The museum delves into the Order's rich history of caring for the sick and injured. Exhibits showcase fascinating medical instruments from bygone eras, shedding light on the evolution of medicine over the centuries. The dedication of the Knights Hospitaller, the Order's military-medical branch, is particularly inspiring, highlighting the long tradition of service that continues to this day with St John Ambulance. Whether you're a history buff fascinated by medieval orders or simply curious about the origins of St John Ambulance, The Museum of the Order of St John is a gem waiting to be discovered. It offers a unique glimpse into a fascinating past, reminding us of the enduring power of compassion and service.
Highlights
Gatehouse Galleries
Sets the scene: crusader origins, the eight-pointed cross, and medical care as a mission.From Jerusalem wards to Victorian first aid in a few crisp rooms.
Clerkenwell Gate, street entrance
Chapel, Crypt & Chapter Hall (tour)
The living HQ: ceremony spaces, relics, and memorials not on general display.Architecture carries the Order’s memory: stone, heraldry, and silence.
Guided tour only—ask at desk
Hands-on Collections
Small scale, big access—handling sessions make history tactile.A glove, a badge, a manual—ordinary objects, long service.
Study room / tour moments
Opening Hours
Fun Facts
Modern St John Ambulance grew from the Victorian revival of the Order in Britain (charter 1888) to teach civilian first aid.
The eight-pointed ‘Maltese’ cross signifies the Order’s medieval ideals and is still worn by today’s volunteers.
Parts of the priory complex were rebuilt after wartime damage—layers of repair are visible in stonework and timber.
