The Fan Museum in Greenwich is devoted to the history, design and craft of hand fans. Set in two Georgian townhouses at 12 Crooms Hill, it displays fans from around the world, including examples dating to the 11th century and pieces made with unusual materials such as tortoiseshell and rare feathers. Look for the changing exhibitions, then take a quiet break in the orangery if you have booked tea ahead. An audio guide is included with the £5 admission, and the visit can fit into a short stop in Greenwich.
A museum devoted to hand fans
The Fan Museum opened in Greenwich in 1991 and focuses on the history, culture and making of the hand fan. Its collection includes thousands of fans and related objects, with examples from different countries and periods. Some date to the 11th century, while others show how designs and materials changed over time.
The collection makes clear that a fan is more than a way to keep cool. Its shape, decoration and construction carry stories about art, fashion and social customs. Displays include pieces made with materials such as tortoiseshell and rare feathers, alongside finely decorated fans that show the care involved in their manufacture.
Displays and changing exhibitions
The museum’s exhibitions explore fans through themes, periods and places. Past displays have included fans associated with Jane Austen and an exhibition about fans and their boxes. The subjects change during the year, so the galleries can present different objects and ideas on a return visit.
An audio guide is included with admission and gives context for the objects on view. The museum team and volunteers can also share information about the collection and how fans were made. Take time to look closely at the decoration and construction: the variety of materials and techniques is part of what makes the collection distinctive.
The Georgian houses and orangery
The museum occupies two restored Georgian townhouses on Crooms Hill. Their rooms provide the setting for the displays, while the orangery at the back adds a quieter place to pause. Tea is served there, but you need to book ahead. A Japanese garden can be viewed from the orangery.
There is also a small gift shop, and toilets are available. The galleries are compact, so a visit can take about an hour rather than filling most of a day. Admission is listed at £5, with the audio guide included. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday and closed on Sundays and Mondays; check the current details before setting out.
Perguntas frequentes
How much is admission to The Fan Museum?
The supplied information lists admission at £5. An audio guide is included.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about an hour to look around the galleries and displays.
Can I have tea at The Fan Museum?
Tea is served in the orangery. Book ahead if you want to have tea there.
What can I see at The Fan Museum?
The collection covers hand fans from different countries and periods, including examples dating to the 11th century. Exhibitions change during the year.
