The Cartoon Museum in Little Russell Street, for example, showcases over 900 British cartoons, caricatures, comics and animations from the 18th century to today, and has a comics library with over 3,000 books. It is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10.30am to 5.30pm, and on Sundays from noon to 5.30pm. Admission is 4 pounds (S$10.76) for adults and free for those under 18.

The Handel House Museum in Brook Street was home to the famous baroque composer George Frideric Handel from 1723 until his death in 1759. The restored house celebrates his life and works. Another point of interest: The adjoining house was home to guitar legend Jimi Hendrix in the late 1960s.

For sports enthusiasts, the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum in Church Road, Wimbledon, is also worth a visit. Visitors can learn the history of the game through interactive touch-screen consoles, as well as view the extensive collection of tennis attire through the ages, starting from the 1880s. It is open daily from 10.30am to 5pm except from Dec 24 to 26, on Jan 1 and during Championship matches. Admission is 7.50 pounds for adults and 4.75 pounds for children.

If you are planning on visiting many museums, the London Pass may help you save some money. It allows free and priority entry to 55 charging attractions in London, 20 of which are museums, including the abovementioned ones.

Audio tours and museum guidebooks are also included, along with discounts at dining and shopping outlets. Prices range from 38 pounds for a one-day adult pass to 82 pounds for a six-day adult pass.

This article was first published in Life, The Straits Times, on July 15, 2008.