London is packed with museums, many of which are world renowned. Whilst institutions such as The British Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert are certainly not to be missed, there are many smaller, more unusual museums which are equally worthy of attention. As an added bonus these quirky London museums are often much quieter which, combined with their modest size, can make for a far more relaxing experience.
Here are five great, quirky London museums that you can easily fit into your schedule and take in their unique exhibits in less than an hour.
The Fan Museum, Crooms Hill
The Fan Museum is located in deepest Greenwich and holds a collection of over 4,000 fans, the oldest of which dates back to the 10th century. Due to the size of the collection- and also to aid conservation- the items on display are rotated three times a year. The museum is spread across two beautiful houses which date back to 1721 and there is also a cafe onsite which is located inside an orangey overlooking a Japanese style garden. Afternoon tea is a speciality here.
How to get there
The nearest stations are Cutty Sark (Docklands Light Railway) and Greenwich (National Rail). The nearest bus routes are 177, 180, 188, 199, 286 and 386.
The Hard Rock Cafe Vault, Old Park Lane
Opened in 1971, the Hard Rock Cafe in London was the very first branch of this now global franchise. The site was originally occupied by Coutts Bank (the very same bank who still handle the Queen’s finances) and it’s for this reason that a hefty vault lurks beneath the restaurant. Today, the vault is crammed with rockstar memorabilia including a pair of John Lennon’s spectacles, an array of guitars- including ones owned by Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix- and outfits worn by Madonna, Keith Moon and many more.
Entry to the Vault is free and via the restaurant’s gift-shop- speak to staff for details.
How to get there
The nearest stations are Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly line) and Green Park (Piccadilly and Jubilee line). The area is served by bus routes 6, 9 and 22.
Pollock’s Toy Museum, Scala Street
This museum is named after Benjamin Pollock, a 19th century printer from Hoxton who crafted intricate toy theatres- some of which can be seen inside the museum today. As the name suggests, Pollock’s is packed with vintage playthings from train-sets to rocking horses. There is even an Ancient Egyptian toy mouse! The museum has been at its present site since the 1960s and it’s believed that the Victorian theatre sets in particular played some part in inspiring David Bowie’s various stage personas after the legendary musician discovered the museum as a young man.
How to get there
The nearest station is Goodge Street (northern line) and the closest bus routes are 73 and 390.
The Royal London Hospital Museum & Archives, Newark Street
Tucked away in the former crypt of St Philip’s Church, The Royal London Hospital Museum is dedicated to documenting this Whitechapel institution. Alongside old-school nursing uniforms and terrifying 19th century surgical instruments, the museum’s most notable artefacts relate to the hospital’s most famous patient- Joseph Merrick, aka the ‘Elephant Man’. These include Joseph’s hat and hood, a letter penned by him and, most touching of all, a delicate model church which he crafted whilst residing at the Royal London.
How to get there
The nearest station is Whitechapel (Hammersmith & City Line, District Line and London Overground) and the area is served by bus routes 10, 115, 205 and 751.
Twinings Tea Museum, Strand
Twinings Tea Shop has stood at the same address- 216 Strand- since 1717, thus making it the oldest business in London to still trade at its original location. It’s rather appropriate therefore that the shop has a tiny but detailed museum towards the back dedicated to vintage tea paraphernalia. Whilst here, you can also indulge in free tasting sessions of Britain’s favourite beverage.
How to get there
The nearest station is Temple (Circle and District lines) and the area is served by bus routes 11 and 15.
