British Motor Museum
Home to over 400 historic British cars, from iconic Minis to royal Land Rovers, offering a journey through automotive history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More cars and lively atmosphere
British Motor Museum
Best Time
More cars and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to over 400 historic British cars, from iconic Minis to royal Land Rovers, offering a journey through automotive history.
"Fantastic day out with hundreds of cars and lots of interesting bits for all ages!"
⏳ Gift Aid for Year-Long Access
Opt for Gift Aid when buying tickets for 12 months of free returns – great value!
🚗 Check Event Schedule
Special car club meets add hundreds of extra vehicles. Plan around them for a fuller experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Mini Collection
Main Exhibition Hall
Explore the evolution of Britain's most beloved small car, from its humble beginnings to its cultural impact.
Land Rover's Royal Connection
Jaguar Land Rover Collection
See Queen Elizabeth II's personal Land Rover, a piece of royal history and automotive heritage.
Jaguar Heritage Trust
Jaguar Heritage Trust Exhibition
Discover rare concept cars and iconic models that shaped Jaguar's legendary status.
Interactive Sound Exhibition
Temporary Exhibition Space
Experience 'Beep Beep, Yeah!', an exhibition exploring the sounds and songs of the motor car.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Plan for Special Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Gift Aid for Year-Long Access
Opt for Gift Aid when buying tickets for 12 months of free returns – great value!
🚗 Check Event Schedule
Special car club meets add hundreds of extra vehicles. Plan around them for a fuller experience.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collection.
🥪 Bring Your Own Picnic
Plenty of benches outside for a picnic lunch, saving money.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Gift Aid for Year-Long Access
Opt for Gift Aid when buying tickets for 12 months of free returns – great value!
🚗 Check Event Schedule
Special car club meets add hundreds of extra vehicles. Plan around them for a fuller experience.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collection.
🥪 Bring Your Own Picnic
Plenty of benches outside for a picnic lunch, saving money.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Features
Interactive play areas and ride-along cars keep younger visitors entertained.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the British Motor Museum for its vast collection of historic British cars and the value offered by year-long return tickets. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, along with family-friendly interactive features, enhance the experience. While some find the initial admission price a bit high, most agree it's well worth it for the extensive exhibits and potential for repeat visits, especially during special events.
"Fantastic day out. The day we went there was also a Jaguar meeting so there was not only the hundreds of cars in the show, but hundreds outside too.
Opted to do gift aid and got 12 months return tickets which makes it great value. Ended up spending most of the day their and there was lots of interesting bits to keep my 5 and 7 year old interested too (they are into classic cars anyway).
Plenty of benches outside to eat food you have brought yourself. All in all a lovely day and we will be making a return journey when there's another event on.
We purchased tickets in advance at the discounted price and this made entry very quick. Just show the tickets and enter."
Chris F
"We visited the British Motor Museum in early September. At first, I thought £20 was quite expensive, but given how much time I spent there, I think it is very reasonable. Especially as the ticket lasts a whole year.
The museum is easy to get to and find, and there is plenty of parking.
There are plenty of things for families too. Small ride-along cars are available for children right at the entrance, and there’s also a small interactive play/games section to keep them entertained.
The sheer number of cars is quite amazing, and even after spending a couple of hours here, it felt like we could have easily stayed much longer.
The staff are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. One gentleman gave us a fascinating and detailed explanation of the Model T Ford, which really added to the experience.
Overall, this is a great museum with a lot to offer. I highly recommend visiting."
Louis
"What a find! I passed the sign on a recent holiday and thought I'd stop on the way back. So glad that I did. The history here is amazing. If you like cars, stop in. You won't regret it. The onsite cafe was good as well. Museum staff were friendly and knew their stuff"
Barry Hodge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Gaydon, Warwickshire. It's easily accessible by car via the M40 motorway (Junction 12). Ample free parking is available on-site. For public transport, you can take a train to Banbury or Leamington Spa and then a taxi or local bus service.
Yes, there is plenty of free parking available for visitors at the British Motor Museum.
While driving is the most convenient, you can reach nearby towns like Banbury or Leamington Spa by train and then take a taxi or bus. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information.
The British Motor Museum is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last admission at 4:00 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours, especially around holidays or for special events.
Yes, the museum is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with lifts and ramps available. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Standard adult admission is around £20, but booking in advance online can offer discounted prices. Tickets are valid for a full year, making it excellent value for repeat visits.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the door, but booking online in advance is recommended for potential savings and to ensure quick entry, especially during busy periods or events.
General admission tickets typically grant access to the main museum collections. Special exhibitions or events might require separate tickets or have different pricing structures.
Yes, discounts are often available for advance online bookings, families, seniors, and students. Opting for Gift Aid on your ticket purchase also grants you a year of free returns.
When you select 'Gift Aid' on your ticket, you essentially donate a small amount to the museum, which allows them to reclaim tax. In return, you get 12 months of free entry to the museum.
🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience
The museum houses over 400 classic British cars, showcasing the history of the automotive industry. Highlights include the Mini collection, Jaguar Heritage Trust, and a special Land Rover owned by Queen Elizabeth II. 
Absolutely! It features interactive exhibits, ride-along cars for children, and a dedicated play area to keep younger visitors engaged.
The museum often has knowledgeable staff who can share fascinating insights about the exhibits. While formal guided tours might vary, engaging with staff can greatly enhance your visit.
Yes, photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the British Motor Museum. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the exhibits.
This is a special exhibition that explores the sounds and songs associated with the motor car, offering a unique sensory experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an onsite cafe that serves refreshments and light meals. Visitors have found the cafe to be good and the staff attentive.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and enjoy it at the designated picnic areas, which are often located outside the museum.
The cafe typically offers a range of options, including sandwiches, snacks, hot meals, and drinks, catering to a general audience.
While specific menus can change, most museum cafes aim to offer a variety of options, often including vegetarian choices. It's best to check with the cafe staff upon arrival.
Prices are generally in line with typical museum cafe charges. Bringing your own picnic is a more budget-friendly option. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic cars like the Mini and Jaguar models, as well as the Royal Land Rover, make for great shots. Special events with car club gatherings also offer fantastic photo ops.
Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's advisable to check the museum's photography policy or ask staff upon arrival.
The Jaguar Heritage Trust section with its concept cars and the main hall displaying a wide array of vehicles are particularly photogenic.
Visitors use a range of cameras, from smartphones to DSLRs. The lighting can vary, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod can be beneficial.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited inside and around the museum premises for safety and security reasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a special event day, as these often bring extra excitement and a lively atmosphere. Bringing a picnic is also a great idea, as there are plenty of outdoor benches available, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable day out for everyone.
🚗 Enthusiasts & Petrolheads
+1 Don't miss the chance to see Queen Elizabeth II's personal Land Rover, a unique piece of automotive and royal history. Keep an eye on the museum's event schedule for car club meets, which can bring hundreds of additional vehicles to the site, offering an unparalleled display of automotive diversity.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food expenses, consider bringing your own picnic. There are ample benches outside where you can enjoy your packed lunch.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jaguar Heritage Trust Collection
+1This section offers a unique glimpse into the brand's history, showcasing everything from early prototypes to the last cars produced at their historic factories. It's a must-see for anyone interested in automotive design and the stories behind some of Britain's most celebrated cars. The trust also works to preserve and restore these vehicles, ensuring their future for generations to come.
+1Insights from visitors highlight the fascination with seeing cars that influenced road-going models and the sheer beauty of these machines. It's a place where automotive dreams are preserved and celebrated, offering a deep dive into the soul of British motoring.
Family Fun and Interactive Learning
Beyond the dedicated play areas, the sheer volume and variety of vehicles can captivate children's imaginations. The staff are often noted for their friendliness and willingness to share stories, which can make the exhibits come alive for all ages.
Many families report spending a full day at the museum, with the interactive elements and the vast collection keeping children interested. The ability to bring your own food and enjoy it in picnic areas also adds to the practicality for family outings.
Special Events and Car Club Meets
+2Attending one of these gatherings, such as a Jaguar meeting or a modified car show, provides an unparalleled opportunity to see a diverse range of classic, vintage, and modern cars up close. It's not just about the cars on display inside the museum; the overflow of vehicles outside creates a dynamic and exciting atmosphere.
These events are highly recommended for petrolheads and families alike, offering a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts and witness a passionate community celebrating automotive history. Checking the museum's events calendar is crucial to plan your visit around these popular gatherings.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit