London Sewing Machine Museum

The carft store is fantastic but I've just had a terrible experience getting my sewing machine serviced. I was charged £66 which is steep but I was told it would be ready in 2 days so I didn't mind. 16 days later I had to call myself initially being told the machine wasn't ready and then being called 10 mins later to say it was. Whe I picked it up they had broken the bulb and lost my spare spool. When I called to complain they said the bulb could have blown in transit. I have had the machine 10 years and it has been in transit dozens of times and the bulb has always been fine. Now I have go back and get one off them (which they say they will replace for free but I still have to make a trip to get it). If you charge a premium I expect good service, not rude slovenly service.

My partner is into sewing so we decided to visit the Sewing Machine Museum after reading about it on the Londonist website. The Museum itself is attached to the Sewing Machine factory on the site. It is only open on the first Saturday of the month between 14:00 and 17:00 making it quite difficult to get to.
Even though it isn't my passion, seeing some of the old Singer sewing machines was fascinating and seeing how they have evolved over time. It is fantastic value since entry is free. There is a member of staff there who can give you a tour through some of the more interesting and unusual exhibits, including a sewing machine designed exclusively for Queen Victoria.
The fascia of the original shop which inspired the creation of the attached Wimbledon Sewing Machine Co. is recreated in the museum. Although it can look uninspiring and industrial from the outside, the LSMM is a great visit for sewers and non-sewers alike.

Odd museum only open one day a month. More sewing machines than I've ever seen before including the first model ever sold. There is a fun guided tour. Free (although donations to a charity welcome) Quirky and enjoyable.

A great hidden gem of London! Museum is free but only open for 3 hours once a month, so check the opening dates and times online before visiting. Highlight of the visit is definitely the member of staff who led the hourly talk - she has a great sense of humour and her passion for sewing machines is absolutely contagious! I went into the museum knowing virtually nothing but left with a newfound appreciation for them!

This is the only one of its kind in London. Sewing machines of all different shapes and sizes dating as far back as the 1840s. It is only open on the first Saturday of each month but it's worth going to see this dazzling private collection. You get a guided tour thrown in. Best to go in the warmer seasons as otherwise you'll need thermals - it was freezing in January! The haberdashers store next door is amazing! Really friendly, helpful staff and lots of choice.

A really neat place! The lady who hosts the talks has a great sense of humour and is very knowledgeable. I'm not much into sewing myself but it was well worth taking the time to walk through a piece of everyday history.

Quirky but brilliant place - the guide was engaging and gave a brilliant talk. It's not your average museum so don't expect detail description on every piece of exhibit. But if you are into sewing machines or just fancy something different I would highly recommend it. The location isnt the most convenient to get to so would suggest a grand day out - get your haberdashery supplies next door, have a meal at the more upmarket area of Balham (15mins walk up north) or the hustle and bustle area of Tooting Bec/Broadway south - plenty of eatery choices!

A fab quirky museum. Only open one afternoon a month normally the first Saturday afternoon. Amazing collection of sewing machines. Get there just after 2pm so you get the introductory talk.... that is great.