London Transport Museum
Discover 200 years of London’s transport history, from vintage buses to iconic Tube maps, in the heart of Covent Garden.
Step into the heart of London’s transport history at the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden. Explore iconic vehicles, pioneering design, and interactive exhibits that bring two centuries of innovation to life. From vintage buses to the world’s first underground steam train, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of London’s public transport network, appealing to visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to London Transport Museum
- London, WC2E 7BB, GB
- +443432225000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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
- Book your annual pass online for unlimited entry throughout the year, and take advantage of free admission for children aged 17 and under.
- Visit in the afternoon for a quieter experience, as mornings tend to be busier with school groups and families.
- Don’t miss the All Aboard playzone for young children, and check the museum’s website for special events and guided tours.
- Bring a refillable water bottle—there’s a water fountain on the ground floor for visitors.
- Explore the Museum Depot in Acton on open days for a deeper dive into London’s transport history and rare vehicle displays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden station, which is a 3-minute walk from the museum. The station is step-free and accessible, with lifts available for those with mobility needs.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including the 1, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 77A, 91, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188, 243, and 521, stop within a 5-minute walk of the museum. Most buses are wheelchair accessible.
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Walking
From Leicester Square, it’s a 6-minute walk through the bustling streets of central London. The route is flat and well-paved, suitable for all ages and abilities.
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Car
Limited street parking is available nearby, but public transport is recommended due to congestion and parking restrictions. The museum is not directly accessible by car, but drop-off points are available on the surrounding streets.
London 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 London Transport Museum
Where London Moves
Nestled in the vibrant Covent Garden Piazza, the London Transport Museum stands as a tribute to the city’s dynamic transport heritage. Since its opening, the museum has chronicled the evolution of London’s public transport, from horse-drawn omnibuses and early trams to the modern Tube and electric buses. The museum’s galleries trace the city’s growth, revealing how transport has shaped London’s identity, culture, and society over the past 200 years.Design, Innovation, and Icons
The museum’s collection is a visual feast for design lovers. Marvel at the original London Underground map by Harry Beck, the iconic roundel logo, and a dazzling array of transport posters that have defined the city’s visual language. The Design for Travel gallery highlights the creative minds behind London’s transport aesthetics, showcasing everything from pioneering advertising to the evolution of the Tube map and the city’s distinctive typeface.Interactive Journeys and Playful Discovery
Visitors are encouraged to step inside real buses and trains, try their hand at a Tube driving simulator, and explore hands-on exhibits that make history come alive. The All Aboard playzone is a favorite for younger guests, offering mini vehicles and interactive activities for children aged 0–7. The museum’s approachable, family-friendly atmosphere ensures that both adults and children leave with a deeper appreciation for the engineering and artistry behind London’s transport network.Hidden Stories and Living History
Beyond the vehicles and posters, the museum tells the stories of the people who have kept London moving—Victorian pioneers, 20th-century designers, and the thousands of transport workers, including those recruited from overseas in the 1950s and 1960s. Special exhibitions and guided tours, such as the Hidden London experiences, offer exclusive access to disused stations, wartime shelters, and behind-the-scenes areas, revealing the hidden layers of London’s transport history.Planning Your Visit
Tickets are annual passes, valid for a year and offering unlimited entry. Children aged 17 and under visit for free, making it an accessible destination for families. The museum is open daily, with interactive galleries, a playzone, and regular special events. For those seeking a deeper dive, the Museum Depot in Acton hosts open days and guided tours, showcasing rare vehicles and artifacts from the museum’s extensive collection.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
