A contact lens dispensing container comprises an upwardly opening receptacle 1 configured to receive a single contact lens 2 and storage solution, the container having a peripheral flange 3 providing a planar engagement surface surrounding the receptacle 1. The container includes a peelable cover sheet (4, figure 1) securable to the engagement surface to seal the container and peelable from the engagement surface to allow removal of the content lens 2 in use. An applicator having a handle 5 is provided, having first and second ends 6 & 7, the handle being pivotably mounted on the flange 3 and having a carrier 8 located at the first end 6 of the handle and a hand grip 10 located at the second end 7 of the handle. The applicator is moveable between stowed and deployed positions, wherein in the stowed position the carrier 8 is received in the receptacle 1 with the handle 5 not extending above the engagement surface, and in the deployed position the applicator is rotated from the stowed position so that the carrier 8 is located above the engagement surface to facilitate direct application of a contact lens 2 onto a wearers eye.
