Coventry Transport Museum: Home of British Road Transport Heritage
Explore the world’s largest public collection of British vehicles and experience Coventry’s rich transport heritage up close.
Coventry Transport Museum, located in the heart of Coventry city centre, houses the world's largest collection of British road transport in public ownership. Explore over 230 cars, 250 cycles, and 100 motorcycles, including the record-breaking Thrust SSC and Thrust 2 cars. The museum offers interactive galleries, family activities, and educational programs, making it a captivating destination for all ages interested in transport history and innovation.
A brief summary to Coventry Transport Museum
- Millennium Place, Hales St, Coventry, CV1 1JD, GB
- +442476234270
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 4.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive before 3pm to ensure full entry time, as the museum closes at 5pm with last admission at 4:30pm.
- Check for special exhibitions and family activity schedules to enhance your visit.
- Use nearby parking facilities such as Bishop Street or Belgrade Plaza as there is no parking on-site.
- Take advantage of free family activity kits available at the Box Office for hands-on fun.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services run frequently to Coventry city centre, with stops near Millennium Place. Travel times vary from 10 to 25 minutes from surrounding districts. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £5 depending on route.
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Train
Coventry Railway Station is about a 15-minute walk from the museum. Trains connect Coventry to Birmingham and London with travel times ranging from 20 to 90 minutes. Walking routes are flat and accessible.
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Car
Visitors driving to the museum should use nearby public car parks such as Bishop Street or Belgrade Plaza, located within 5 to 10 minutes’ walk. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £8 for a few hours.
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Walking
The museum is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from Coventry city centre hotels and attractions, with flat, paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Walking times range from 5 to 20 minutes.
Coventry Transport Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Coventry Transport Museum
A Legacy of British Transport Innovation
Coventry Transport Museum is a treasure trove of British motoring history, showcasing the largest publicly owned collection of British road transport vehicles. Established in 1980 to accommodate the expanding collection, the museum celebrates Coventry’s pivotal role as a global centre for motor and cycle manufacturing. Visitors can witness the evolution of transport from the earliest bicycles and carriages to modern vehicles that shaped the industry.World Record-Breaking Vehicles and Iconic Exhibits
The museum is renowned for housing the world’s two fastest cars, the Thrust SSC and Thrust 2, which hold the land speed records. Beyond these spectacular feats of engineering, the collection includes over 230 cars, 250 cycles, and 100 motorcycles, featuring pioneering designs, luxury vehicles, and commercial transport. Exhibits are thoughtfully arranged to tell the stories behind Coventry’s innovators and the vehicles that defined eras.Immersive and Interactive Experiences
Coventry Transport Museum offers more than static displays; visitors can engage with interactive galleries and immersive exhibitions. A highlight is the 4D Land Speed Record Simulator, providing the thrilling sensation of breaking speed records. The museum also features hands-on family activities centered around Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM), encouraging learning through play and creativity.Family-Friendly and Educational Programs
The museum is dedicated to education and family engagement, offering a wide range of sessions for school groups that align with curriculum standards. Free family activities and loanable kits are available to enhance visits, ensuring that visitors of all ages can enjoy and learn. Facilities such as wheelchair hire, buggy parking, and lockers support accessibility and convenience for all guests.Facilities and Visitor Amenities
Located at Millennium Place, Hales Street, the museum features an award-winning café serving local delicacies like the Coventry Godcake and a well-stocked gift shop. While there is no on-site parking, nearby car parks are available. The museum operates Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm, closing on Mondays except for bank holidays and during Christmas and New Year holidays.Preserving Coventry’s Transport Heritage for Future Generations
Coventry Transport Museum not only preserves vehicles but also extensive automobilia, photographs, and archives housed at the nearby Herbert Art Gallery & Museum. This comprehensive approach ensures the city’s transport legacy remains vibrant and accessible, offering a unique cultural and historical experience for visitors and locals alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sir Frank Whittle
0.1 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Lady Godiva
0.3 km
Explore the iconic Lady Godiva statue in Coventry, a stunning tribute to bravery and heritage, surrounded by vibrant city life and rich history.
St Mary's Guildhall
0.4 km
Explore St Mary's Guildhall in Coventry - a stunning historical landmark blending rich heritage with modern amenities, perfect for history lovers and café enthusiasts.
Council House
0.4 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Lunt Roman Fort
4.3 km
Explore Lunt Roman Fort, a captivating heritage site that reveals the rich history of Roman military architecture and life in ancient Britain.
Bedworth Water Tower
7.5 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Visit Stratford-upon-Avon
10.7 km
Experience the enchanting blend of history and culture in the birthplace of Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon, where every corner tells a story.
Westmorland Drive
12.2 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Guys Cliffe House
13.2 km
Explore the enchanting Guys Cliffe House, a historical landmark in Warwick, offering rich stories, stunning architecture, and captivating events throughout the year.
Warwick
15.2 km
Explore Warwick, a historic English town known for its stunning castle, charming streets, and rich cultural heritage, perfect for an unforgettable getaway.
Warwick East Gate Victorian Type PB1 Postbox
15.2 km
Explore the historic charm of Warwick at the East Gate Victorian Postbox, a must-see landmark that embodies the city's Victorian heritage.
The Randolph Turpin Statue
15.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of British boxing champion Randolph Turpin with this striking bronze statue in Warwick’s historic Market Square.
The Castle Dungeon
15.4 km
Dive into the eerie past at The Castle Dungeon in Warwick, where history comes alive with spine-chilling tales and thrilling performances.
Hob's Moat
19.1 km
Medieval moat and woodland escape preserving Solihull's Norman heritage
Earl Shilton Castle
23.2 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Unmissable attractions to see
Millennium Place
0.0 km
Explore Coventry’s rich automotive heritage and marvel at record-breaking vehicles in a vibrant city-centre museum at Millennium Place.
Lady Herbert's Gardens
0.1 km
A serene city-centre garden blending medieval heritage with floral beauty, created as a heartfelt memorial in 1930s Coventry.
Old grammar school
0.1 km
Step into Coventry’s medieval past at the beautifully restored Old Grammar School, a heritage landmark beside the Transport Museum.
New Buildings
0.2 km
Discover Coventry’s New Buildings area, where modern architecture meets rich heritage in England’s vibrant West Midlands city.
Priory Visitor Centre
0.2 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval roots and the beautifully preserved priory Undercrofts at this vibrant city centre heritage hub.
Holy Trinity Coventry
0.3 km
Discover Coventry’s medieval marvel with its soaring spire, stunning Doom painting, and rich history preserved through centuries.
Coventry Cathedral
0.3 km
Where medieval ruins meet modern art—a powerful symbol of war’s cost and the enduring hope for peace and reconciliation.
Lady Godiva
0.3 km
Discover the iconic Lady Godiva statue in Coventry, a bronze tribute to courage, compassion, and the city’s resilient spirit.
Golden Cross
0.3 km
Discover the Golden Cross in Coventry, a charming pub offering a delightful gluten-free dining experience and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Belgrade Theatre
0.3 km
Britain's first post-war civic theatre, where modern architecture meets cultural ambition in Coventry's rebuilt city centre.
St Mary's Guildhall
0.4 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval jewel where kings ruled, queens were imprisoned, and history lives through stunning tapestries and grand halls.
Drapers' Hall
0.4 km
Experience the rhythmic soul of Coventry at Drapers' Hall, a historic concert hall celebrated for its vibrant live music and stunning architecture.
St John the Baptist Church
0.5 km
Discover Coventry’s medieval gem, St John the Baptist Church, rich in history, Gothic artistry, and tales from England’s turbulent past.
St John the Baptist Church
0.5 km
Discover Coventry’s medieval gem, St John the Baptist Church, rich with royal history, Gothic architecture, and Civil War tales.
Fords Hospital Alms House
0.5 km
Discover Coventry’s beautifully preserved Tudor almshouse, a serene 16th-century timber-framed refuge with rich history and enduring charm.
Essential places to dine
Oak Room Restaurant
7.3 km
Award-winning fine dining in a historic 17th-century manor with classic British dishes, flambé specialties, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Cross
8.2 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic Kenilworth inn, blending classic British flavors with modern elegance and local ingredients.
The Quicken Tree
8.9 km
A cozy British restaurant in Coventry offering hearty meals, quirky decor, and a family-friendly atmosphere near scenic lakes and woodlands.
Saxon Mill Warwick
13.0 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Warwick blending traditional mill charm with modern British cuisine and scenic views.
La Coppola Ristorante & Oyster Bar
13.2 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in an elegant, welcoming setting at the heart of Leamington Spa’s Parade.
Hayashi Japanese Restaurant
13.3 km
Authentic Japanese flavors served fresh in a family-friendly, modern setting at the heart of Leamington Spa.
Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro
13.3 km
Experience authentic French bistro charm and superb British steaks in the heart of Leamington Spa at Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro.
Habano Restaurant & Wine Bar
13.4 km
A vibrant Pan-Latin dining experience with fresh Cuban and Spanish flavors, friendly service, and a lively wine bar in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Star & Garter
13.4 km
A stylish gastropub in Leamington Spa blending traditional charm with modern dining and lively social vibes.
Giggling Squid - Leamington Spa
13.5 km
Experience vibrant Thai flavors and stylish sharing plates in the heart of Leamington Spa’s Royal Priors Shopping Centre.
Villa Capri Ristorante Italiano & Cocktail Lounge
13.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and crafted cocktails in a vibrant Capri-inspired setting in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Côte Leamington Spa
13.5 km
Experience modern French cuisine and warm brasserie charm in the heart of Leamington Spa’s historic town centre.
The Stag at Offchurch
13.7 km
Historic 16th-century thatched pub offering refined British and European dining in the scenic village of Offchurch near Leamington Spa.
Eleven
14.1 km
An intimate, family-run French bistro in Leamington Spa offering classic dishes and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
The Moorings at Myton
14.5 km
A charming canal-side gastropub in Royal Leamington Spa, serving locally sourced English classics in a family- and dog-friendly setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Warwickshire Shopping Park
5.3 km
Coventry's diverse shopping destination with major retailers, dining, and modern amenities.
Ropewalk Shopping Centre
12.6 km
A vibrant, accessible shopping hub in Nuneaton offering diverse stores, eateries, and community events in a modern indoor setting.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
13.3 km
Discover quirky gifts, creative homewares, and joyful party supplies at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Leamington Spa’s vibrant town centre.
Revolve
13.3 km
Discover exclusive ladies’ fashion and wedding wear with personalized service at Revolve, Leamington Spa’s stylish boutique on Warwick Street.
Life of Mou
13.4 km
Discover Life of Mou, a warm and curated slow fashion boutique blending vintage charm and sustainable style in Leamington Spa.
Collective Home Store
13.4 km
Discover unique home and lifestyle accessories in Leamington Spa’s eclectic Collective Home Store, where style meets quality and quirkiness.
Royal Priors Shopping Centre
13.5 km
Leamington Spa’s premier indoor shopping centre with spacious malls, diverse stores, and convenient access in the town’s historic heart.
Cotswold Trading - Leamington Spa
13.5 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Lilac Rose
13.5 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Stone The Crows
13.5 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish homeware at Stone The Crows, a beloved Leamington Spa boutique known for unique finds and excellent service.
The Gift Company
14.7 km
Eclectic gifts and quality oak furniture blend tradition and style at Resorts World Birmingham’s vibrant gift shop.
Leamington Shopping Park
15.0 km
Discover a vibrant shopping destination with free parking, top brands, and a welcoming open-air environment in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa.
Cloud 9
15.1 km
Discover handcrafted fair trade treasures at Cloud 9, Warwick’s boutique for ethical gifts and global artisan crafts.
Browsers
15.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming keepsakes in the heart of historic Warwick at Browsers, your cozy local gift shop on Smith Street.
Trinkets & Treasures Ltd
15.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homewares in Warwick’s welcoming boutique, perfect for every special occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrace Bar
5.0 km
A vibrant campus cocktail bar with scenic Piazza views, live music, and student events at the heart of University of Warwick nightlife.
The Clarendon Leamington Spa
13.1 km
Lively sports bar and pub in Leamington Spa with live games, craft beers, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The White Horse
13.2 km
A charming blend of historic character and modern comfort, The White Horse offers classic British pub fare and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Bedford Street Bar
13.4 km
Lively grill and bar venue in Leamington Spa offering live jazz, classic British dishes, and a vibrant social atmosphere with heated outdoor seating.
The Fat Pug
13.4 km
Quirky and welcoming gastro pub in Leamington Spa serving hearty British dishes and lively drinks in a vibrant, eclectic setting.
The Royal Pug
13.5 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Leamington Spa with great food, drinks, live entertainment, and a charming garden setting.
Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
13.5 km
Eclectic brewhouse and grill in Leamington Spa offering craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a uniquely stylish atmosphere.
The Drawing Board
13.6 km
Eclectic gastropub with vintage comics, gourmet bar food, and award-winning craft beers in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Boiler Room
13.9 km
An independent, quirky craft beer bar in Leamington Spa with artisan ales, lively music, and a cozy, intimate vibe.
The Micro Pug
14.4 km
A lively canal-side pub and coffee spot in Leamington Spa, blending great drinks, fresh food, and a buzzing social scene with scenic waterside charm.
The Wild Boar
14.5 km
A cozy Warwick pub blending traditional charm, hearty British fare, and well-kept real ales in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Pug
14.7 km
A historic Tudor pub in Warwick offering quirky charm, great drinks, dog-friendly warmth, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
The Old Coffee Tavern
15.3 km
Charming historic pub and boutique hotel in Warwick’s Old Square, blending cosy style, excellent food, and comfortable rooms in a central location.
The Eagle
15.3 km
A cozy, quirky cellar micro pub in Warwick serving expertly curated real ales and craft beers in an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
Rigsby's Cellar Bar
15.3 km
Cozy cellar charm meets heartfelt hospitality in Warwick’s intimate and quirky Rigsby's Cellar Bar.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Educational
- Interactive
- Relaxing
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
