Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection
Dive into the nostalgia of classic motoring in the Cotswolds.
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Varies
Time Needed
1-2 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Weather Fit
Great for rainy days
Stroller Access
Yes, step-free
Washrooms
On-site w/ baby change
Food
Cafe nearby in village
Parking
Village car parks nearby
Booking
Walk-in welcome
Parent Effort
Low (self-guided)
A wonderfully nostalgic museum that keeps both children and adults entertained with its eclectic mix of classic cars, motoring memorabilia, and vintage toys. The sensory-friendly hours and dog-friendly policy make it an unusually welcoming choice for families with diverse needs.
About This Place
The Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection in Bourton-on-the-Water offers a delightful journey through the history of 20th-century motoring. The museum is packed with a nostalgic collection of rare vehicles, classic memorabilia, and an extensive toy collection that includes vintage items like pedal cars and slot cars. It's a family-friendly venue with excellent accessibility features, including disabled access and sensory-friendly opening hours for neurodiverse visitors. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal activities for children, and dogs are welcome. The museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm, with the last admission at 5:15pm. Adult tickets are priced at £9.95, while children aged 5-16 are £6.95, and those under 5 enter free.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Sunday
- 10:00 – 18:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Check the official website for current admission prices.
Rare vehicles & classic cars
Explore seven galleries packed with vintage cars, motorcycles, and motoring curiosities.
Toy collection
Discover pedal cars, slot cars, and nostalgic toys that spark imagination across generations.
Accessible & inclusive
Step-free access and dedicated sensory-friendly hours for neurodiverse visitors.
Dog-friendly outing
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, so the whole family can enjoy the trip together.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Dogs
- Well-behaved dogs are welcome throughout the museum
- Sensory hours
- Designated quieter sensory-friendly opening times available
- Accessibility
- Step-free access and disabled facilities provided
- Location
- Situated in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water, close to village amenities
- Last admission
- Last entry is 45 minutes before closing time
- Seasonal activities
- Children's activities and trails offered during school holidays
Kid Fit by Age
Can be pushed around in strollers; interesting colours and shapes to look at
Love the bright vehicles and hands-on toy displays
Pedal cars and vintage toys are a big hit at this age
Old cars, memorabilia, and interactive elements keep them engaged
Nostalgic appeal and unique vehicles hold interest
May enjoy if they have an interest in motoring history or vintage culture
Insider Tips
Look out for the hidden 'Brum' car from the classic children's TV series
Ask staff about the seasonal children's activity sheets and trails
Combine your visit with a walk along Bourton-on-the-Water's famous low stone bridges
- •Some vintage vehicles are roped off — remind children not to climb on exhibits
- •Low lighting in some galleries — hold little ones' hands
- •Small parts on some toy displays — supervise very young children closely
- •Exit routes are well marked and step-free throughout
- •Step-free access throughout the museum
- •Designated sensory-friendly opening hours for visitors with autism or sensory needs
- •Disabled toilet facilities available on-site
schedule Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings tend to be quietest, especially outside of school holidays. The museum is popular on rainy days and weekends, so arrive early for a more relaxed visit.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxA camera for photos with the vintage cars
- check_boxComfortable shoes for walking around the galleries
- check_boxA light jacket as some areas can be cool
- check_boxPocket money for the small gift shop
Location
Address
The Old Mill, Sherborne St, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cheltenham GL54 2BY, United Kingdom
Phone
+441451822767
Make it a half-day
View All Bourton-on-the-WaterLast checked: 2026