The Fan Museum

Two Georgian townhouses in Greenwich hold one of London's most unexpectedly brilliant collections - over 4,000 fans spanning three centuries. Walking in, you're immediately struck by the sheer variety: lacquered Japanese pieces, Spanish ivory fans, hand-painted silk from the 18th century, even some with tiny mirrors built into the sticks. The museum's small but perfectly formed, which means you won't get museum fatigue halfway through.

It's genuinely fascinating if you're into social history or craftsmanship. These weren't mere accessories - fans were status symbols, love tokens, political statements. The detail is extraordinary once you start looking properly. That said, it's not a day-long affair. Two hours max and you've seen everything, handled the interactive bits, read the labels you actually care about.

Families with older kids (say, 10+) who can appreciate delicate objects will find it engaging. Younger ones might lose interest quickly unless they're into the hands-on elements. History enthusiasts and textile lovers will absolutely rate it.

Getting there is straightforward - it's in Greenwich, easily accessible by transport from central London. If you're basing yourself at Abbey Wood Experience Freedom Glamping nearby, it's a cracking half-day option when the weather turns dodgy. Admission is reasonable, though I'd check their website for current opening times before heading down. Free or paid, it punches well above its weight for a specialist museum.