British Motor Museum: The Heart of British Motoring Heritage
Explore the world’s largest collection of historic British cars and discover the rich heritage of Britain’s motor industry in the heart of Warwickshire.
Located in Gaydon, Warwickshire, the British Motor Museum houses the world's largest collection of historic British cars, showcasing over 300 vehicles from vintage to classic eras. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it offers interactive exhibitions, family activities, and a deep dive into the evolution of the British motor industry, making it a must-visit for car enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to British Motor Museum
- 5GQ9+GV Banbury Road Gaydon, Warwick, Lighthorne Heath, CV35 0BJ, GB
- +441926895300
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- 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
- Book tickets online in advance to save money and gain access to a 12-month annual pass through Gift Aid.
- Join the free guided tours of the museum and Collections Centre offered at 11am, 12pm, 2pm, and 3pm for deeper insights.
- Visit the Junction 12 Café for a range of hot meals, snacks, and homemade cakes during your visit.
- Check the museum’s calendar for special motoring events and exhibitions that offer unique experiences.
- Use the museum’s name as a sat nav point of interest rather than the postcode for more accurate directions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from central Warwick takes approximately 25-35 minutes via the M40 motorway. Ample free parking is available on-site. Use the museum’s name as a point of interest in your sat nav for accurate directions. Parking is suitable for all vehicle sizes.
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Warwick town center to Gaydon area, with a stop within a 15-minute walk of the museum. Bus journey times range from 40 to 60 minutes depending on the route. Check local timetables for service frequency.
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Train and Taxi
The nearest train station is Leamington Spa, about 20 km away. From there, a taxi ride to the museum takes approximately 25 minutes. Train services run frequently from Birmingham and London, making this a convenient option for visitors without a car.
British Motor 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 British Motor Museum
A Premier Collection of British Automotive History
The British Motor Museum in Gaydon is home to the world's largest collection of historic British cars, with more than 300 vehicles on display. Spanning the veteran, vintage, and classic eras, the museum presents an extensive timeline of British motoring, capturing the evolution of design, engineering, and culture. Visitors can explore iconic models that shaped the industry and British society over the decades.Immersive Exhibitions and Family-Friendly Experiences
Beyond the impressive car displays, the museum offers interactive exhibitions that engage visitors of all ages. The 'Time Road' exhibition takes you through motoring history alongside changing family lifestyles, complemented by period music and memorable events such as the introduction of double yellow lines. Interactive displays like 'Under The Skin' unravel the mechanics of cars, including suspension and steering innovations, making it educational and fun for families and enthusiasts.Facilities and Visitor Amenities
The museum is fully accessible, with lifts to all levels, portable induction loops, and wheelchairs available. The Junction 12 Café on-site serves hot and cold meals along with homemade cakes, providing a comfortable spot to relax. Additional amenities include restrooms, seating areas, and information boards to enhance the visitor experience.Special Tours and Events
Included in the admission fee are guided tours of both the museum and the Collections Centre, available at scheduled times without the need for pre-booking. The museum also hosts special motoring events and themed exhibitions throughout the year, such as the 'Beep-Beep, Yeah! Sounds and Songs of the Motor Car' exhibition that explores the relationship between car sounds and driving culture.Location and Accessibility
Situated just off Junction 12 of the M40 motorway, the British Motor Museum is easily accessible by car and public transport. The museum encourages visitors to use the museum name as a point of interest in sat navs rather than relying solely on the postcode for accurate directions. Ample parking is available, and the site is suitable for visitors with mobility needs.Supporting British Motoring Heritage
Operated by the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, a registered charity, the museum not only preserves historic vehicles but also offers opportunities to 'adopt' cars and support ongoing conservation efforts. Ticket holders can convert their entry fee into an annual pass at no extra cost by opting to Gift Aid their admission, supporting the museum’s mission to keep British motoring history alive for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Randolph Turpin Statue
12.9 km
Celebrate the legacy of British boxing champion Randolph Turpin with this striking bronze statue in Warwick’s historic Market Square.
Tramway Bridge
15.1 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Countess of Evesham
15.2 km
Indulge in traditional British cuisine at The Countess of Evesham, a charming restaurant on the waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by natural beauty.
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
15.2 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Stratford Waterside Market
15.3 km
Discover unique artisan treasures and vibrant street food in Stratford-upon-Avon's charming riverside market.
Sinister Stratford
15.5 km
Explore the darker side of Stratford-upon-Avon with Sinister Stratford's captivating tours of haunted history and folklore.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council
15.5 km
Explore Stratford-upon-Avon and its rich heritage at the Town Council, your gateway to local culture and events in Shakespeare's hometown.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall
15.5 km
Elegant Palladian landmark in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rich history, Shakespearean heritage, and civic tradition since 1767.
Garrick
15.5 km
Step into Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest pub, where medieval charm meets hearty fare and centuries of captivating history.
Shakespeare's Funerary Monument
15.5 km
Discover the historical significance of Shakespeare's Funerary Monument in Stratford-upon-Avon, a tribute to the legendary playwright's remarkable legacy.
Shakespeare's New Place
15.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning gardens at Shakespeare's New Place, a tribute to the life and works of the world's most famous playwright.
Holy Trinity Church
15.5 km
Explore Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon, a historic Anglican church and the final resting place of William Shakespeare, steeped in literary heritage.
The Henley Room
15.5 km
Discover the enchanting Henley Room in Stratford-upon-Avon, a premier wedding venue blending elegance with exceptional service for your special day.
The Guild Chapel
15.5 km
Medieval masterpiece with rare wall paintings hidden for centuries—a window into pre-Reformation England.
Statue Of Shakespeare Stratford-upon-Avon
15.5 km
A bronze tribute to the Bard in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, where literature and history come alive on Henley Street.
Unmissable attractions to see
Compton Verney Art Gallery and Park
4.9 km
Explore world-class art and serene Capability Brown parkland at Compton Verney’s historic Georgian mansion.
Charlecote Park
9.9 km
Explore an Elizabethan manor steeped in history and surrounded by 180 acres of tranquil deer park near Warwick.
The White Lion
10.0 km
A historic thatched gastropub in Radford Semele serving seasonal British classics with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and quality local ingredients.
St Nicholas' Park, Warwick
12.3 km
A historic riverside park in central Warwick offering gardens, sports, and family-friendly leisure in a tranquil natural setting.
Time Tower
12.4 km
Step inside the Time Tower at Warwick Castle for an immersive journey through centuries of history with captivating audiovisual storytelling and stunning views.
The Castle Dungeon
12.4 km
Step into Warwick Castle’s dark past with The Castle Dungeon, a spine-chilling immersive journey through plague, torture, and medieval terror.
Warwick Castle
12.4 km
Discover over 1,100 years of history, thrilling live shows, and breathtaking views at Warwick Castle, one of Britain’s finest medieval fortresses.
Warwick Castle Main Entrance
12.5 km
Step into over 1,100 years of history at Warwick Castle, where medieval grandeur meets immersive live entertainment and scenic grounds.
St John's House
12.6 km
Explore nearly 900 years of history in Warwick’s Jacobean St John's House, a Grade I listed mansion blending heritage, education, and intimate events.
Warwickshire Yeomanry Museum
12.6 km
Explore the rich history of the Warwickshire Yeomanry cavalry regiment in the historic Georgian Court House of Warwick.
Warwick
12.6 km
Discover Warwick’s timeless medieval castle, charming historic streets, and tranquil river setting in the heart of Warwickshire.
The Weird Walk of Warwick
12.6 km
Explore centuries of military history and medieval charm at the Lord Leycester Hospital’s Weird Walk of Warwick, a unique living heritage site.
Warwick East Gate Victorian Type PB1 Postbox
12.7 km
Discover Warwick’s charming Victorian cast iron postbox, a vibrant red relic of 19th-century British postal heritage still in use beside East Gate clock tower.
The Lord Leycester
12.7 km
Step into a living medieval masterpiece where Tudor history breathes through centuries-old timber walls and enduring traditions.
Warwick Antiques Centre
12.7 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm at Warwick Antiques Centre, a historic marketplace in the heart of Warwick.
Essential places to dine
The Dining Room at Mallory Court Hotel & Spa
8.4 km
Elegant country house dining with seasonal, garden-grown British cuisine in a historic, intimate setting near Leamington Spa.
The Orangery Restaurant
9.8 km
Charming dining with scenic views at Charlecote Park’s historic Orangery Restaurant, perfect for light bites and cream teas.
The Stag at Offchurch
11.3 km
Historic 16th-century thatched pub offering refined British and European dining in the scenic village of Offchurch near Leamington Spa.
Eleven
11.3 km
An intimate, family-run French bistro in Leamington Spa offering classic dishes and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
The Moorings at Myton
11.4 km
A charming canal-side gastropub in Royal Leamington Spa, serving locally sourced English classics in a family- and dog-friendly setting.
The Royal Oak
11.4 km
Michelin-starred Cotswolds gastropub where 800 years of history meets wild, foraged fine dining.
Côte Leamington Spa
11.9 km
Experience modern French cuisine and warm brasserie charm in the heart of Leamington Spa’s historic town centre.
Villa Capri Ristorante Italiano & Cocktail Lounge
11.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and crafted cocktails in a vibrant Capri-inspired setting in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Giggling Squid - Leamington Spa
11.9 km
Experience vibrant Thai flavors and stylish sharing plates in the heart of Leamington Spa’s Royal Priors Shopping Centre.
Hayashi Japanese Restaurant
12.1 km
Authentic Japanese flavors served fresh in a family-friendly, modern setting at the heart of Leamington Spa.
Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro
12.1 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
12.1 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
12.2 km
A stylish gastropub in Leamington Spa blending traditional charm with modern dining and lively social vibes.
La Coppola Ristorante & Oyster Bar
12.2 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in an elegant, welcoming setting at the heart of Leamington Spa’s Parade.
The Baraset Barn
12.6 km
Charming countryside restaurant and boutique hotel near Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rustic heritage with vibrant global cuisine and modern comfort.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Daisy B's Boutique
9.4 km
Discover unique fashion pieces at Daisy B's Boutique in Southam, a must-visit destination for ladies' clothing and personalized service.
Leamington Shopping Park
11.1 km
Discover a vibrant shopping destination with free parking, top brands, and a welcoming open-air environment in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa.
Cotswold Trading - Leamington Spa
11.9 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Stone The Crows
11.9 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish homeware at Stone The Crows, a beloved Leamington Spa boutique known for unique finds and excellent service.
Life of Mou
11.9 km
Discover Life of Mou, a warm and curated slow fashion boutique blending vintage charm and sustainable style in Leamington Spa.
Collective Home Store
12.0 km
Discover unique home and lifestyle accessories in Leamington Spa’s eclectic Collective Home Store, where style meets quality and quirkiness.
Lilac Rose
12.0 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Royal Priors Shopping Centre
12.0 km
Leamington Spa’s premier indoor shopping centre with spacious malls, diverse stores, and convenient access in the town’s historic heart.
Revolve
12.1 km
Discover exclusive ladies’ fashion and wedding wear with personalized service at Revolve, Leamington Spa’s stylish boutique on Warwick Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
12.1 km
Discover quirky gifts, creative homewares, and joyful party supplies at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Leamington Spa’s vibrant town centre.
Cloud 9
12.6 km
Discover handcrafted fair trade treasures at Cloud 9, Warwick’s boutique for ethical gifts and global artisan crafts.
Browsers
12.6 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
12.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homewares in Warwick’s welcoming boutique, perfect for every special occasion.
Present Days
12.7 km
Discover unique local crafts and charming gifts at Present Days, Warwick’s beloved boutique gift shop on historic Swan Street.
NV Her
12.8 km
Discover unique, sophisticated ladies’ fashion with a raw edge at NV Her, Warwick’s independent boutique in Market Place.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Leopard Inn - Bishops Tachbrook
8.0 km
A classic British pub in Bishops Tachbrook offering hearty meals, excellent real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere near Leamington Spa.
Royal Horse
9.8 km
A vibrant, family-friendly pub in Royal Leamington Spa offering hearty British fare, lively events, and warm hospitality since 2013.
The Micro Pug
11.0 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 Boiler Room
11.5 km
An independent, quirky craft beer bar in Leamington Spa with artisan ales, lively music, and a cozy, intimate vibe.
The Drawing Board
11.8 km
Eclectic gastropub with vintage comics, gourmet bar food, and award-winning craft beers in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Royal Pug
11.9 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Leamington Spa with great food, drinks, live entertainment, and a charming garden setting.
Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
12.0 km
Eclectic brewhouse and grill in Leamington Spa offering craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a uniquely stylish atmosphere.
Bedford Street Bar
12.1 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 Clarendon Leamington Spa
12.2 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
12.3 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.
The Fat Pug
12.4 km
Quirky and welcoming gastro pub in Leamington Spa serving hearty British dishes and lively drinks in a vibrant, eclectic setting.
Unicorn
12.5 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Warwick offering excellent British fare, accommodating service, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Castle Inn
12.5 km
A historic Warwick pub with quirky charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming beer garden for locals and visitors alike.
The Black Pug
12.6 km
A historic Tudor pub in Warwick offering quirky charm, great drinks, dog-friendly warmth, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
Ronnie's of Warwick
12.6 km
Eclectic bar in Warwick blending retro style, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere with a welcoming garden space.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Neon
11.4 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
12.2 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
Smack
12.3 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
The Cavern
14.0 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Caz Bar Nightclub
15.4 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
15.6 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
15.7 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
15.8 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.
Elysium
39.8 km
Northampton’s premier late-night nightclub for house, bass, and tech house music, famed as the city’s official after-party hotspot.
Club43
39.9 km
Northampton’s vibrant underground nightclub offering top electronic acts and a soulful, energetic nightlife experience.
The Boston
40.0 km
Northampton’s welcoming LGBTQ+ nightclub and pub, The Boston offers lively music, themed nights, and a vibrant inclusive atmosphere.
Stereo Bar and Club
40.1 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
NB's
40.1 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
The Platform
40.1 km
Northampton’s vibrant nightclub and bar blending historic charm with lively music, drinks, and student-friendly events.
Club Bar X
41.2 km
Lively basement nightclub on Wellingborough Road, Northampton, offering late-night music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene Thursday to Saturday.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
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
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
