Coventry Transport Museums tells the story of how Coventry grew to become a world-leader in bicycle and car manufacturing. Learn about the people involved and their passion for the transport industry via interactive exhibits, original artifacts and storyboards. Coventry Transport Museum started in 1937 when the city was donated a private collection of bicycles. Today it boasts the world’s most valuable collection of British vehicles, including 120 motorcycles, 250 cars and 300 bicycles.
The exhibitions run in chronological order, starting in 1868 when the Coventry Sewing Machine Company began making velocipede bicycles. Get acquainted with some of the 474 bicycle, 161 car and 116 motorcycle companies that once operated in the city. One exhibit recounts the World War II bomb raids, which flattened the city and all-but destroyed one third of its factories. Others reveal the post-war rebuilding of the city, its 1950s and 1960s golden age and rapid decline from the 1970s.
Spend time admiring the museum’s celebrated vehicles, including a Daimler Wagonette built in 1898 and the penny farthing-style Ariel Cycle. Marvel at the imposing ThrustSSC, which set the World Land Speed Record in 1997, and then experience its power in a 4-D simulator. Back to the Future fans will enjoy seeing a pristine DeLorean. There’s an Austin Metro owned by Lady Diana Spencer and the bus used by Coventry City Football Club for their city parade after winning the 1987 FA Cup Final.
You’ll find the museum located to the north of the city center and about a 20-minute walk from Coventry Train Station. Public buses stop on nearby Trinity Street and at Pool Meadow Bus Station. There are several pay-and-display parking lots within walking distance of the attraction.
Coventry Transport Museum is open daily and admission is free. There are fees for the 4-D simulator, with discounts available for families, groups and visitors under 16. Guided tours of the exhibitions are available for a fee and can be booked in advance for groups of 10 or more. Full details are available on the museum’s official website.
