Quirky London: 9 Attractions and Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London

London is a city known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and world-class attractions. But beyond the traditional tourist hotspots like the Tower of London, Big Ben, and The British Museum, there’s a whole other side to this vibrant metropolis — one filled with quirky, attractions and unusual museums you must visit in London that will surprise and delight even the most seasoned traveller. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, London has a treasure trove of hidden gems that showcase the city’s eccentric charm. Here is a list of Attractions and Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London.

From bizarre collections to oddball experiences, here are some of the most quirky attractions and fun unusual museums you must visit in London.

1. The Museum of Curiosity

Location: 11, 22 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH
Theme: Strange Oddities & Bizarre Objects

Tucked away near Russell Square, the Museum of Curiosity is the perfect place for anyone who loves the weird, the unusual, and the downright bizarre. This quirky museum features an eclectic mix of oddities, from Victorian medical tools to bizarre sculptures, strange artefacts, and curious objects that challenge the norms of conventional museums, making it to the list of Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London.

The museum, often described as a treasure trove of weird and wonderful items, offers a fascinating exploration of the eccentricities that have shaped our world. Whether it’s taxidermy, an antique torture device, or a collection of unusual scientific instruments, you’ll be sure to leave with your jaw on the floor.

2. The Hunterian Museum (at The Royal College of Surgeons)

Location: 35-43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PE
Theme: Medical Oddities & Anatomy

One of London’s best-kept secrets, the Hunterian Museum is a quirky, historical gem. Situated at the Royal College of Surgeons, this fascinating museum houses one of the world’s most unique medical collections. The museum’s exhibits feature hundreds of preserved specimens, surgical tools, and anatomical models from the 18th and 19th centuries, offering a glimpse into the world of medical science from a bygone era.

The collection was founded by John Hunter, a pioneering Scottish surgeon, and includes a wealth of bizarre objects, such as conjoined twins, deformed skulls, and the preserved remains of extraordinary animals. It’s an eerie yet intriguing experience for those who have a fascination with medical history, making it to the list of Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London.

Note: The museum is currently undergoing renovations, so it’s worth checking the website for the latest updates on its reopening.

3. The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities

Location: 11 Mare Street, Hackney, London E8 4RP
Theme: Art, Taxidermy, and Oddities

If you think you’ve seen it all, the Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities will change your mind. Nestled in the heart of Hackney, this museum is a true celebration of the strange and the macabre. Founder Viktor Wynd’s personal collection spans everything from taxidermy to weird artworks, Victorian erotica, human bones, and rare artefacts that reflect the fascinating world of the bizarre, making it to the list of Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London.

The museum is housed in an intimate, darkly lit space, creating an atmosphere that is both thrilling and unsettling. Whether it’s the collection of shrunken heads, witchcraft paraphernalia, or a stuffed unicorn, there’s no shortage of unusual treasures here. For the brave-hearted and those with a curiosity for the strange, the museum is definitely worth a visit.

4. The Fan Museum | Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London

Location: 12 Crooms Hill, Greenwich, London SE10 8ER
Theme: Fans & Decorative Arts

Tucked away in the historic Greenwich district, the Fan Museum is a delightful and quirky institution dedicated to one of the most overlooked objects in fashion history: the fan. With a collection of over 4,000 fans, this museum is the only one of its kind in the UK, making it to the list of Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London.

The exhibits span several centuries, showcasing a variety of ornate, handcrafted fans from all over the world, with unique designs, materials, and artistic styles. The museum’s collection includes fans made from precious materials such as ivory, silk, and gold, with some dating back to the 16th century. For those who appreciate fashion and craftsmanship, the Fan Museum offers an unexpected and fascinating look into an often-overlooked aspect of history.

5. The Sherlock Holmes Museum

Location: 221B Baker Street, London NW1 6XE
Theme: Sherlock Holmes, Detective Fiction

Fans of the legendary detective will find a quirky treasure trove at the Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street. While most of us know the famous address from Arthur Conan Doyle’s beloved stories, this museum is dedicated entirely to the life and works of Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick, Dr. Watson.

The museum is set in a Georgian townhouse that has been meticulously recreated to resemble Holmes’ fictional residence. As you tour the museum, you’ll encounter Victorian furnishings, personal items attributed to Holmes and Watson, and displays detailing famous cases like “The Hound of the Baskervilles” and “A Study in Scarlet.” The museum also offers interactive exhibits that allow you to immerse yourself in the world of detective fiction, making it to the list of Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London.

6. The Magic Circle Museum

Location: 12 Stephenson Way, London NW1 2HD
Theme: Magic & Illusion

For those fascinated by the world of magic and illusion, the Magic Circle Museum is an enchanting destination. Located near Euston Station, this museum is home to the famous Magic Circle Society, an organization dedicated to the art of magic. The museum showcases a vast collection of historical magical paraphernalia, including rare trick props, magician’s costumes, and posters of famous performances, making it to the list of Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London.

Visitors can learn about the history of magic, the evolution of illusions, and even explore the mysteries of famous magicians like Harry Houdini. The museum is open to the public only during select events or private tours, so be sure to plan your visit in advance for a magical experience.

7. The Cartoon Museum

Location: 35 Little Russell Street, London WC1A 2HH
Theme: Cartoons, Comics & Caricatures

For fans of animation, comics, and graphic art, the Cartoon Museum in Bloomsbury offers an entertaining and quirky look into the world of British cartoons and caricatures. From political cartoons to the iconic works of Beano and Dandy, the museum offers an impressive collection of over 5,000 works of art, dating from the 18th century to the present day.

Not only does the museum highlight the role of cartoons in British culture, but it also showcases the work of some of the most famous cartoonists and animators in history, including Ralph Steadman and Steve Bell. The museum offers a fun, lighthearted escape from traditional art galleries, making it a quirky stop for visitors of all ages, making it to the list of Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London.

8. The London Bridge Experience & Tombs

Location: 2-4 Tooley Street, London SE1 2SY
Theme: Haunted History & Dark Tourism

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, the London Bridge Experience & Tombs offers a unique and spine-chilling experience. Situated right next to London Bridge, this interactive attraction takes visitors on a journey through the dark and eerie history of London Bridge, from its Roman origins to its notorious history as a site for executions.

The experience is both educational and thrilling, combining historical storytelling with immersive horror scenes, actors in period costumes, and chilling special effects. You’ll explore the haunted vaults beneath London Bridge and encounter some of the most terrifying aspects of London’s darker past. It’s a must-visit for thrill-seekers and those fascinated by the eerie side of the city.

9. The Thames Clippers’ Floating Cinema

Location: Thames Clippers, Various Locations
Theme: Cinematic Views & Floating Experience

For a completely unconventional movie experience, hop aboard the Thames Clippers’ Floating Cinema. This pop-up cinema offers a unique way to enjoy classic and cult films, all while cruising down the River Thames. With the London skyline as your backdrop, watching a film aboard the Thames Clippers boat is an unforgettable and quirky experience, making it to the list of Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London.

While the exact locations and dates change depending on the season, the floating cinema is often part of special events or festivals, and the concept has become popular with both tourists and locals alike. If you love movies and enjoy unique experiences, this floating cinema is one quirky attraction you won’t want to miss.

Conclusion | Unusual Museums You Must Visit in London

London is a city with many layers, and while it’s famous for its grand museums and historic landmarks, it also has a quirky side that’s just waiting to be explored. From peculiar collections to eerie experiences, these, attractions and unusual museums you must visit in London offer something a little different, yet equally captivating, for anyone looking to uncover the eccentric charm of this vibrant city. So, next time you find yourself in London, step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in some of these quirky gems — you’re bound to discover a whole new side to the city that you never expected!