Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection
Step back in time with vintage vehicles, nostalgic toys, and the beloved Brum in the heart of picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water.
Located in the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water, the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection offers a nostalgic journey through 20th-century motoring history. Housed in The Old Mill, this museum features an extensive collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, bicycles, caravans, and motoring memorabilia, alongside a delightful toy collection including the famous children’s TV character Brum. It provides an engaging experience for families and enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection
- The Old Mill, Sherborne St, Cheltenham, Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 2BY, GB
- +441451821255
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Allow 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the museum’s extensive vehicle and toy collections.
- Visit on a weekday to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Don’t miss the Brum exhibit, a highlight for families and fans of the classic children’s TV show.
- The museum is fully wheelchair accessible and offers SEND bags to support neurodiverse visitors.
- Combine your visit with a stroll around Bourton-on-the-Water to enjoy the village’s charming scenery.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By Car
Driving to the museum from central Bourton-on-the-Water takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Parking is available nearby in village car parks. Note that parking fees apply, typically around £2-£5 for a few hours.
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By Bus
Local bus services connect Bourton-on-the-Water with nearby towns such as Moreton-in-Marsh and Cheltenham. Bus journeys take 20 to 40 minutes depending on the route, but services are infrequent and timetables vary seasonally, so check schedules in advance.
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By Train
The nearest train stations are Kingham (5 miles), Shipton (7 miles), and Moreton-in-Marsh (8 miles). From these stations, taxi or local bus connections to Bourton-on-the-Water take 15 to 25 minutes.
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On Foot
If staying in Bourton-on-the-Water village center, the museum is a pleasant 10 to 15-minute walk on mostly flat terrain, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection 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 Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection
A Glimpse into 20th-Century Motoring Heritage
Nestled in the picturesque Cotswold village of Bourton-on-the-Water, the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection is a treasure trove dedicated to the motoring history of the 20th century. The museum showcases an impressive array of vintage vehicles including cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and caravans, offering visitors a detailed look at the evolution of transportation over the decades. Alongside vehicles, the museum houses a rich collection of motoring memorabilia such as enamel signs, model kits, and original garage artifacts that evoke the spirit of motoring’s golden age.A Charming Toy Collection and Brum’s Legacy
Complementing the motoring exhibits is an extensive toy collection featuring pedal cars, tricycles, toy buses, and aeroplanes crafted from wood and metal. A highlight for many visitors is the display of Brum, the beloved children’s television character – a small vintage car whose adventures are closely tied to the museum itself. Brum’s presence adds a whimsical and family-friendly dimension to the museum, making it especially appealing to younger visitors and fans of the TV series.Historic Setting and Founding Story
The museum is housed in The Old Mill, a historic building that enhances the nostalgic atmosphere. Founded in 1978 by car collector Mike Cavanagh, who also appeared in the Brum TV series, the museum has been managed since 1999 by the Civil Service Motoring Association, a not-for-profit organization. This stewardship has helped preserve and expand the collection, maintaining its role as a cultural and educational hub within the Cotswolds.An Immersive Visitor Experience
Visitors can expect a thoughtfully curated experience with exhibits arranged to evoke period-correct scenes, including vintage garage settings and advertising materials. The museum’s compact size allows for an intimate exploration without overwhelming crowds, though it can become busy during peak seasons. Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair access throughout and special provisions for neurodiverse visitors. The museum also welcomes dogs, adding to its inclusive atmosphere.Award-Winning Interpretation and Community Role
The museum’s dedication to engaging storytelling and educational outreach has earned it accolades such as the Heart of England Tourist Board’s Visitor Attraction of the Year in 2003 and the Museums and Heritage Award for its children’s interpretation project in 2004. It continues to serve as a vibrant cultural landmark, connecting visitors with the rich heritage of British motoring and childhood nostalgia.Location and Surroundings
Situated in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water, the museum benefits from the village’s quintessential Cotswold charm, surrounded by scenic landscapes and traditional English architecture. Nearby amenities and parking make it a convenient and pleasant stop during a tour of the Cotswolds, enhancing its appeal as a day trip destination for families, enthusiasts, and cultural tourists alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bliss Tweed Mill
14.9 km
A striking Victorian tweed mill in Chipping Norton, blending industrial heritage with elegant architecture and scenic Cotswold views.
National Trust - Bibury
15.0 km
Discover the timeless beauty of Bibury, a picturesque village in the Cotswolds known for its enchanting cottages, serene landscapes, and rich history.
Hailes Church
15.0 km
Explore the medieval Hailes Church and evocative ruins of Hailes Abbey, a royal-founded pilgrimage site famed for the Holy Blood relic.
Sudeley Castle Gardens
15.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Sudeley Castle Gardens, a must-visit gem in the heart of the Cotswolds.
National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden
15.2 km
Explore the historical charm and natural beauty of Snowshill Manor and Garden, a hidden gem in the Cotswolds inviting travelers to experience English heritage.
Sudeley Castle
15.2 km
Explore Sudeley Castle, a historical landmark in the Cotswolds, rich in royal history, stunning gardens, and family-friendly activities.
Belas Knap Long Barrow
15.3 km
A 5,000-year-old Neolithic mystery carved in stone, where ancient rituals and timeless Cotswolds views converge.
Whittington Court
15.4 km
Explore the enchanting Whittington Court, a historical landmark in Cheltenham, offering stunning architecture and serene gardens perfect for a leisurely visit.
Broadway Tower
16.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Broadway Tower, a stunning monument in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Rollright Stones
16.4 km
Explore the ancient mysteries of the Rollright Stones, a captivating historical site in the heart of the Cotswolds, rich in folklore and stunning scenery.
Barnsley Park
17.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical charm of Barnsley Park, a hidden gem in the Cotswolds perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Cleeve Hill
17.4 km
Explore Cleeve Hill, the highest peak in the Cotswolds, offering breathtaking views, enchanting trails, and a rich tapestry of wildlife.
Undiscovered Cotswolds
17.9 km
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of the Undiscovered Cotswolds, a unique tourist destination perfect for your next adventure.
Colesbourne Gardens
18.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Colesbourne Gardens, a serene escape in Cheltenham, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote
18.3 km
Explore the enchanting ruins of Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote, a historical gem in the Cotswolds offering picturesque views and rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cotswold Antiques & Tea Room
0.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and enjoy traditional tea in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water’s charming Cotswold village.
Once Upon A Candy Shop
0.2 km
A charming boutique sweet shop in Bourton-on-the-Water offering nostalgic treats with a premium twist amidst the scenic Cotswold village.
The Model Village
0.3 km
Step into a charming miniature world with the Grade II listed Model Village, a detailed 1:9 scale replica capturing Bourton-on-the-Water’s timeless Cotswold charm.
Bourton-on-the-Water
0.4 km
Experience the charm of Bourton-on-the-Water, the 'Venice of the Cotswolds,' with its scenic river, historic bridges, and family-friendly attractions.
Birdland Park & Gardens
0.5 km
Meet England's only King Penguin breeding group and 500+ birds across nine acres of Cotswolds woodland.
The Dragonfly Maze
0.5 km
Discover the charming Dragonfly Maze in Bourton-on-the-Water—a playful hedge maze with clever puzzles and a golden prize at its heart.
Greystones Farm Nature Reserve
0.6 km
Explore ancient history and vibrant wildlife in the tranquil meadows and rivers of Greystones Farm Nature Reserve.
Lower Slaughter
1.7 km
Discover Lower Slaughter, a serene Cotswold village where historic charm meets riverside tranquility and timeless English beauty.
Lower Slaughter Museum
1.9 km
Historic Old Mill museum in a tranquil Cotswold village, showcasing rural milling heritage beside the scenic River Eye.
The Old Mill
1.9 km
Historic 19th-century watermill on the River Eye offering museum exhibits, local crafts, and riverside café in charming Lower Slaughter.
Upper Slaughter
2.7 km
Discover Upper Slaughter, a serene Cotswold village where history, nature, and timeless English charm converge along the tranquil River Eye.
Lady’s Well
5.2 km
Discover the tranquil Lady’s Well in Lower Swell, a historic holy spring famed for its healing waters and timeless spiritual traditions.
St Edward's Church
5.6 km
Discover the medieval charm and legendary Tolkien Door of St Edward's Church, a historic gem in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.
Cotswolds AONB
5.6 km
Explore the Cotswolds AONB: rolling hills, honey-hued villages, and timeless English countryside charm across nearly 800 square miles.
The Porch House
5.6 km
Experience England’s oldest inn, The Porch House, where medieval history meets modern comfort in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Essential places to dine
The Rose Tree Restaurant
0.1 km
Charming riverside British dining in a historic Cotswold cottage with cozy interiors and scenic garden views.
The Croft Restaurant
0.2 km
A charming riverside restaurant in Bourton-on-the-Water serving fresh, locally sourced English cuisine in a welcoming and scenic setting.
The Old Butchers
5.6 km
Historic charm meets exceptional seafood and charcoal-grilled cuisine in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s vibrant dining scene.
The Old Stocks Inn
5.7 km
Charming 17th-century boutique inn with refined British dining, cozy bar, and elegant rooms in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s historic market square.
The Halfway at Kineton
9.1 km
A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Wild Rabbit
9.7 km
Charming Georgian inn in Kingham offering refined British cuisine, eco-conscious hospitality, and stylish countryside retreats in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Kingham Plough
9.9 km
A charming Cotswold village inn blending traditional character with modern British cuisine and stylish comfort in the heart of Kingham.
The Old Smokery
10.3 km
A lively Cotswolds hub blending rustic dining, vibrant events, and welcoming atmosphere at Far Peak Camping.
Horse and Groom
11.9 km
Quintessential Cotswolds pub with hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in Bourton-on-the-Hill.
The Chequers, Cotswolds
12.0 km
A stylish Cotswold gastropub in Churchill, serving elevated pub classics in a warm, lively atmosphere with a lovely garden and a strong local following.
The Oak Tree Restaurant
14.3 km
Relax and refuel at The Oak Tree Restaurant, a family-friendly dining spot nestled within the scenic Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens.
The Gallery Restaurant
14.7 km
Modern European dining in the heart of Bibury, blending local Cotswold produce with elegant country charm at The Swan Hotel.
The Catherine Wheel
15.1 km
A family-run pub and inn in Bibury serving fresh local food with warm hospitality in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Whistlers Restaurant
16.0 km
Whistlers Restaurant offers vibrant modern British dining with fresh ingredients, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming bar in Chipping Norton.
5 North St
16.0 km
An intimate French dining experience in Winchcombe, blending innovative cuisine with cozy charm and unpretentious service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cotswold China & Cookware
0.1 km
Discover exquisite British chinaware and cookware in a charming boutique nestled in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water.
The Lodestone
0.1 km
Discover dazzling crystals and minerals with expert guidance in the heart of charming Bourton-on-the-Water.
The Cotswold Shop
0.1 km
Charming boutique offering handcrafted gifts and traditional sweets in one of Bourton-on-the-Water’s oldest buildings.
Cotswold Perfumery
0.1 km
Experience bespoke English fragrances, immersive perfume courses, and luxury riverside stays in the historic heart of Bourton-on-the-Water.
Chestnuts Fashion Fix
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion and accessories in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water’s charming High Street.
Quirky
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water’s charming High Street.
Caboodle
0.2 km
Handcrafted treasures and local artisan finds in the heart of picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water.
Cotswold Picture Shop
0.6 km
Discover authentic Cotswold art and unique gifts in a charming Bourton-on-the-Water boutique open daily until midnight.
The Cotswold Company (Flagship Store)
5.5 km
Step into a beautifully styled Cotswold home at The Cotswold Company’s flagship store in Stow-on-the-Wold, where timeless furniture and homewares come to life.
The Curated Store
5.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, artisan homewares, and timeless treasures in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s charming market square.
Ella's Emporium
5.6 km
A charming Cotswold gift shop with handmade fudge, unique homewares, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.
The Cotswold Stores
8.1 km
A welcoming convenience store in historic Northleach’s Market Place, offering local treats and everyday essentials daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Cotswold Hipster
9.0 km
Handcrafted artisan leather bags and stylish dog accessories blending vintage charm with modern functionality in Chipping Norton.
The Cotswold Snug
12.4 km
Discover authentic Cotswold crafts and gifts in a cozy, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Moreton-in-Marsh’s historic High Street.
Cotswold Grey
12.5 km
Discover rustic elegance and expert interior design at Cotswold Grey, Moreton-in-Marsh’s premier home furniture and décor destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kingsbridge
0.1 km
A classic riverside pub in Bourton-on-the-Water offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and warm hospitality in a scenic Cotswold village setting.
Sheep on Sheep Street
5.6 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Sheep on Sheep Street, a vibrant inn and pub in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.
The Fox at Oddington
8.4 km
Historic 16th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic charm with organic cuisine and cozy countryside stays in Lower Oddington.
Hollow Bottom
8.6 km
A historic Cotswold pub blending hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and scenic countryside charm in the heart of Guiting Power.
The Coach & Horses
9.0 km
A cosy, traditional Cotswold pub in Longborough serving hearty fare, local ales, and welcoming guests with charming B&B rooms.
The Lamb Inn
11.5 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Oxfordshire’s Cotswolds, blending rustic charm, hearty British cuisine, and cozy guest rooms.
The Cotswold Arms
11.9 km
Historic 15th-century pub in Burford blending local ales, homemade food, live music, and a cozy beer garden for all ages.
Snowshill Arms
14.8 km
Authentic Cotswold pub offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the picturesque village of Snowshill.
THE STUMP
15.0 km
A historic Cotswolds coaching inn blending rustic charm, acclaimed wood-fired pizzas, and cozy rooms for a quintessential English countryside experience.
The Lion Inn
16.1 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Winchcombe offering cozy rooms, hearty British fare, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Keepers Arms
16.7 km
Charming Cotswold pub and boutique inn offering warm hospitality, excellent food, and a peaceful village retreat near Cirencester.
The Bakers Arms
17.2 km
A timeless Cotswold pub offering hearty fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Broad Campden’s historic village.
Broadway
18.0 km
A welcoming Bournemouth pub serving classic fare, live sports, and a vibrant community atmosphere with inclusive dining options.
Eight Bells Inn
18.7 km
Historic 14th-century inn with cozy rooms, classic pub fare, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Chipping Campden.
Bathurst Arms
19.5 km
A cozy riverside Cotswold pub and inn offering excellent local food, warm hospitality, and scenic charm in North Cerney.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Coco
21.8 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
21.8 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
2 PIGS
21.8 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
21.9 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Popworld - Cheltenham
21.9 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
Under the Prom
22.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
22.1 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
Thirteen Degrees
22.1 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
ReVA Nightclub
23.6 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
ATIK Gloucester
33.1 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Bar Fever Gloucester
33.3 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
33.4 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
33.7 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
34.3 km
Discover the joy of laughter at Fat Cat Comedy Club in Stratford-upon-Avon, where each show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Stratford Play House
34.4 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly