Home of Brum, and plenty of motoring history from the 20th century, here’s all the info for visiting the Cotswold Motoring Museum Bourton On The Water.
How To Get To The Cotswold Motoring Museum
The Cotswold Motoring Museum is located just off Rissington Road, the main road running through Bourton On The Water.
The best option is to park at Rissington Road Pay & Display (located just next to Birdland) and explore from there.
Just a short walk from the main stretch of village, The Cotswold Motoring Museum can be found to the left of ‘De La Haye’s’ cafe & tea room. Easily accessible from anywhere in town.
For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.
If you are based in London there are a few tours that will take you around the Cotswolds including From London: Full-Day Cotswolds Small-Group Tour. This trip visits Bourton on the Water.
Cotswold Motoring Museum Entrance Fee
Adults: £6.25
Children: £4.50 (4-16 years old)
Children Under 4: Free
Family: £19.75 (2 adults & 2 children)
Cotswold Motoring Museum Opening Times
Monday – Sunday: 10am – 6pm.
Last entrance 5.30pm.
Best Time To Visit The Cotswold Motoring Museum
The weather is generally warmer in England between the months of April to October. However be prepared for showers at any time! The warmest months are usually June, July and August.
The village of Bourton on the Water is a very popular tourist destination, with the Motoring Museum being a popular attraction.
So, if you want to avoid too many crowds, get there early and avoid weekends and school holidays.
The Motoring Museum is extra popular with children due to it being home to ‘Brum’, the cute little yellow car from children’s TV.
This is a great place to visit for families and people of any age.
What To Pack
The Cotswold Motoring Museum History
First opened in 1978, the Cotswold Motoring Museum was founded by Mike Cavanagh. He amassed a large collection of cars over a 20 year period whilst living in South Africa.
Mike Cavanagh owned the museum until 1999 and when he died in 2021 a plaque dedicated to him was placed on the wall at the entrance to the museum.
Undoubtedly, the star of the show at the Cotswold Motoring Museum for many is the little yellow car called Brum who featured in a popular children’s TV series.
Brum is the story of a small, half-scale replica of a late-1920s Austin 7 Chummy convertible who ventures out into Big Town when his owner isn’t looking and gets up to all manner of adventures.
Interestingly, Mike Cavanagh was the only human character to appear in every episode of the popular TV series Brum and played a character that was apparently oblivious to Brum’s adventures.
Each episode begins and ends with Brum leaving the other cars in the Motor Museum when the owner is not looking and heading out to explore, before eventually returning to his place.
The series was originally narrated by the famous singer Toyah Wilcox, who also provided the voice for Brum and all the characters. The show aired for three series between 1991 and 2002.
What To Expect At The Cotswold Motoring Museum
For anyone growing up in the 90’s, like us, it’s an absolute must visit just to see Brum!
The little yellow car from the British children’s TV series is about the adventures of a self-driven motor. Although, of course there is much much more to see.
The Cotswold Motoring Museum, full title ‘The Motoring & Toys Museum’, is home to some great motor vehicles, an interesting collection of bicycles and even some horse-drawn vehicles.
However, some may argue that the large toy collection are the real gems.
Take a fascinating trip through time as you move through the rooms filled with retro cars and vehicles and explore the history of 20th century motoring.
There are cute little labels on some of the vehicles that tell you about the past owners memories and experiences, which really help bring the whole thing to life.
Take your time and stroll around taking photos before exiting through the shop, which is home to one of the largest toy car collections we’ve seen.
The one entrance price paid allows for free entry throughout the day and the staff are extremely friendly and knowledgeable.
Overall, The Cotswold Motoring Museum is a credit to Bourton On The Water, the Cotswolds and the UK on the whole.
Where To Stay In Bourton On The Water
Luxury
The Landsdowne Guest House is one of the most highly rated accommodations in the area.
Each room has a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities and light refreshments.
Rooms come with a private bathroom equipped with a bath or shower, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.
Free WiFi and private parking is available on site.
Mid-Budget
Located perfectly on the high street, The Mousetrap Inn has a beautiful garden and terrace.
The property has a bar and on site restaurant.
All units come with a TV and free WiFi.
Buffet breakfast is available each morning at the property.
Budget
Old Manse Hotel by Greene King Inns
With original features and traditional charm, Old Manse Hotel overlooks the River Windrush.
The hotel has free parking, a riverside terrace and free Wi-Fi. The elegant rooms at The Old Manse each have a private bathroom.
All rooms have tea and coffee facilities, a work desk and hairdryer.
Some rooms even have wonderful period features and river views.
For more places to stay in Bourton On The Water, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
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