The Fan Museum, Greenwich: A Unique Tribute to Fan History and Craftsmanship
Explore the world’s only museum dedicated to the art, history, and craft of fans, set within charming Georgian townhouses in historic Greenwich.
Nestled in historic Greenwich, The Fan Museum is the UK's only museum dedicated entirely to the history, culture, and craft of fans. Housed in two beautifully restored Grade II* listed Georgian townhouses dating from 1721, it showcases a diverse collection of fans from the 12th century to the present day. Visitors can explore permanent and temporary exhibitions, enjoy workshops, and browse a well-stocked gift shop, all within a charming heritage setting.
A brief summary to The Fan Museum
- 12 Crooms Hill, London, SE10 8ER, GB
- +442083051441
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure your visit, especially for group bookings.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the permanent and temporary exhibitions.
- Check for special events or workshops to enhance your experience with fan-making demonstrations.
- Use the portable ramp available if you have mobility needs; staff are helpful and accommodating.
- Visit the museum shop for unique fan-related gifts and souvenirs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to the museum. Frequent services run daily, with ticket prices starting around £2.50. Note that walking involves some cobbled streets and gentle slopes.
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Bus
Several London bus routes, including 188 and 129, stop near Greenwich town centre, about a 10-minute walk from The Fan Museum. Buses run regularly throughout the day; single fares are £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card. The area is well served but expect moderate pedestrian traffic.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Greenwich typically takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £15-£25. Drop-off is possible near Crooms Hill, but parking is limited in the immediate vicinity.
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Walking from Greenwich Market
If you are exploring Greenwich Market, the museum is a pleasant 5-7 minute walk away via historic streets. The terrain is mostly flat with some cobblestones, suitable for most visitors but less ideal for those with mobility challenges.
The Fan Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Fan Museum
A Singular Focus on Fans and Their Cultural Significance
The Fan Museum stands out as the only museum in the UK devoted exclusively to fans—their history, artistry, and cultural importance. Its collection spans over a thousand years, featuring fans from around the world, from delicate 12th-century pieces to contemporary designs. This unique focus allows visitors to appreciate the evolution of fans as both practical items and exquisite works of art, reflecting changing fashions, technologies, and social customs.Historic Setting in Georgian Townhouses
The museum is housed in a pair of Grade II* listed early Georgian townhouses constructed in 1721, located in the heart of Maritime Greenwich, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The elegant architecture and period interiors provide a fitting backdrop for the delicate and ornate fans on display. The building's heritage status adds an extra layer of charm and authenticity to the visitor experience.Exhibitions and Visitor Experience
The Fan Museum offers both permanent displays and a rotating programme of temporary exhibitions, having staged more than 80 exhibitions since its opening in 1991. Visitors can explore themed exhibitions that showcase different periods, styles, and cultural contexts of fans. The museum also hosts workshops where visitors can learn fan-making techniques, enhancing engagement with the craft. Although the Orangery tearoom is currently closed, the museum shop offers a variety of fan-related gifts, from bespoke jewellery to reference books.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The museum is committed to accessibility, providing a portable folding ramp for entrance steps and manual wheelchairs on request. While there is a single step from street level to the courtyard and further steps inside, a lift operated by staff grants access to all floors. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available. Visitors with disabilities and their carers enjoy free admission. Audio guides and large-print materials support diverse visitor needs. Pets are not allowed inside, but guide dogs are welcome.Location and Practical Information
Located at 12 Crooms Hill, London SE10 8ER, The Fan Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 to 17:00, with last admission at 16:30. Admission prices are modest, with adult tickets around £5 and concessions available. The museum is close to Greenwich Market and other historic attractions, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring the area. Its intimate scale means visits typically last 1 to 2 hours.Preserving a Unique Cultural Heritage
As an independent, award-winning institution accredited by Arts Council England, The Fan Museum plays a vital role in preserving and promoting fan heritage. Its collections and educational efforts highlight the artistry and cultural stories embodied in fans, ensuring this delicate craft continues to be appreciated by new generations. The museum also offers digital exhibitions and seasonal events to broaden access beyond its physical location.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
0.1 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
0.5 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Trafalgar Tavern
0.7 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
0.8 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Anchor Iron Wharf
0.9 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
City Hall
3.6 km
Discover London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a striking architectural landmark and vibrant hub of governance and public engagement on the Royal Docks waterfront.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.9 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Execution Dock
4.3 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.4 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
Shadwell Basin
4.4 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
The Captain Kidd
4.4 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
4.5 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.9 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
5.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
International House
5.3 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oliver's Jazz Bar
0.1 km
An intimate, candlelit basement jazz club in Greenwich where close-up live music and community atmosphere meet a well-stocked bar.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
0.2 km
Discover rare antiques, vintage treasures, and eclectic crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
St Alfege Church
0.2 km
Discover over a millennium of history, architecture, and music at St Alfege Church, the heart of Greenwich’s spiritual heritage.
1 Greenwich Church St
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shops, eateries, and iconic landmarks by the Thames.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
0.3 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
National Maritime Museum
0.3 km
Explore Britain’s rich naval history at the world’s largest maritime museum, set in scenic Greenwich with free entry and engaging galleries for all ages.
5b Greenwich Market
0.3 km
A historic covered market in Greenwich, London, brimming with artisan crafts, antiques, vintage finds, and global street food in a lively, community-focused setting.
Greenwich Market
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
Queen's House
0.4 km
Discover England’s first classical building, the Queen's House in Greenwich, a timeless blend of royal history, art, and architectural brilliance.
Naval College Gardens
0.4 km
A tranquil riverside garden in Greenwich, framed by the Old Royal Naval College and offering views of the Cutty Sark and Canary Wharf across the Thames.
Greenwich Tourist Information Desk
0.4 km
Explore London's maritime heritage at the Greenwich Tourist Information Desk, your gateway to local attractions and experiences.
Painted Hall
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
Cutty Sark
0.4 km
Explore the world’s fastest surviving tea clipper, Cutty Sark, a historic maritime treasure in the heart of Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
Trinity Laban
0.5 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Prime Meridian
0.5 km
Experience the intersection of time and space at the Royal Observatory, where history meets the cosmos in beautiful Greenwich Park.
Essential places to dine
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
0.2 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
Pho Street
0.2 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
0.2 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Goddards at Greenwich
0.3 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
0.3 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
0.4 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
0.6 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Midpoint Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
0.9 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Restaurant Story
5.5 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
6.0 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.2 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
6.3 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
George
6.4 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Joli Vintage Living
0.2 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Arc Angel Boutique London
0.2 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
0.3 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Rare Books & Curios
0.3 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
The Junk Shop
0.3 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
Made in Greenwich
0.3 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
0.3 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
Painted hall gift shop
0.5 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
La Boutique Vintage
0.7 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Bermondsey Antique Market
5.5 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.5 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Tower of London Shop
5.9 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
5.9 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Hay's Galleria
6.0 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
0.0 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
Kings Arms
0.2 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
The Lost Hour
0.3 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
The Gipsy Moth
0.4 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
Mindful Mixology
0.6 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
Greenwich Town Social Club
1.3 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Td 338 Bar
2.0 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
2.7 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
2.7 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Drink At Bob's
3.1 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The Midnight Apothecary
4.0 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Nine Lives
5.8 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
6.0 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Old School Yard
6.0 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
6.1 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bunker
1.3 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
1.9 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Venue
2.0 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
American Express Invites Lounge
2.7 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
2.8 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
LA Lounge
3.3 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
CQ LOUNGE
4.0 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Club 701
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
5.0 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Corsica Studios
6.5 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Steel Yard
6.7 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
6.7 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Hoxton Pony
7.2 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
7.3 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.4 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly