Cotswold Motoring Museum, Bourton-on-the-Water

Cotswold Motoring Museum is a small, quirky museum with a unique collection of rare vehicles, classic memorabilia and toys, celebrating the history of 20th century motoring. A visit to the museum, in Bourton-on-the-Water, offers a fun and nostalgic day out for all members of the family.   

Many of the items on display in the Cotswold Motoring Museum stem from a private collection in South Africa. The owner returned to England in the late ‘70s with his entire collection, finding a home for it in the Old Mill in the Cotswold town of Bourton-on-the-Water. 

While the original collection remains at the core of the museum, it still continues to grow, showcasing vehicles, 20th century toys and memorabilia. There are over 40 cars on display, dating all the way back to the early 1900s. They include historic Austins, classy Jaguars and sporty Morgans. You will also see a unique collection of bicycles, motorbikes and two caravans from the 1920s. 

Children’s TV star, Brum, still lives at the museum. It is from here that he used to head out on his exciting adventures. As you wander around, you will come across an authentic blacksmith’s workshop and a replica garage from the early days of motoring. 

In addition to the vehicles on display, the museum is crammed full of memorabilia from days gone by. You will not only see motoring items, but also nostalgic enamel signs, vintage clothing, gramophones and cameras. Kids of all ages will enjoy the fascinating toy collection, featuring old favourites such as pedal cars, model planes, a rocking horse, Dinky cars and Scalextric sets. 

Pop into the gift shop for souvenirs, toys and model cars – everything to keep a car enthusiast happy! After visiting the Cotswold Motoring Museum, make the most of a wander around the quintessentially Cotswold town of Bourton-on-the-Water. Known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds,’ you can crisscross the small bridges over the river to explore a wonderful mix of gift shops, tearooms and visitor attractions.

Cotswold Motoring Museum opens from mid-February to mid-December. Check their website for opening times and admission charges.

Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury cottages in the Cotswolds here.

The Old Mill, Sherborne Street, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2BY | 01451 821 255 | www.cotswoldmotoringmuseum.co.uk

Images copyright Cotswold Motoring Museum