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Lakeland Motor Museum

Backbarrow, United Kingdom•4.7(5.8k)•Heritage Site, Museum

Explore 30,000 fascinating exhibits tracing road transport history, from classic cars and motorbikes to the legendary Campbell Bluebird speed record vehicles.

Lakeland Motor Museum houses one of the UK's most comprehensive collections of motoring history, featuring approximately 30,000 exhibits that chronicle the development of road transport throughout the twentieth century. Visitors can discover vintage and veteran cars, classic vehicles, curious and comical automobiles, along with an extensive collection of motoring memorabilia from around the world. The museum offers much more than vehicles alone. Guests can explore fantastic period recreations including a 1930s garage, vintage shops, and a World War I display, providing context for how motoring evolved within local Lakeland history and industries. A highlight is the tribute to the racing Campbells—Sir Malcolm and son Donald—who captured 21 world land and water speed records for Great Britain in their iconic Bluebird series of cars and boats. Located at the southern tip of Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District, the museum is family-friendly with amenities including the Riverside Café, dog-friendly policies, and pushchair accessibility. Children's quizzes engage younger visitors while school groups and coach parties are welcomed. The venue also offers combined tickets with Windermere Lake Cruises for a complete Lake District experience.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:30 – 17:30
Tuesday: 09:30 – 17:30
Wednesday: 09:30 – 17:30
Thursday: 09:30 – 17:30
Friday: 09:30 – 17:30
Saturday: 09:30 – 17:30
Sunday: 09:30 – 17:30

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Riverside Café

Picturesque riverside café serving food and refreshments on the museum grounds

Hours: 9:30am - 5:00pm

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Google Reviews

4.7(5.8k reviews)
J
James Morgan

James Morgan

2 months ago

This is a bit like the Haynes Motor Museum, of the north. My son and I had a lovely time. The DeLorean and Sierra Cosworth were our favourites. The layout of the museum is great - love all the old shop fronts. The cafe is nice and we enjoyed our cakes. Staff were polite and friendly.

A
alan burton

alan burton

2 months ago

Another great motoring museum even if your into bikes or the Bluebird in it is worth a visit. This was our 2nd visit here & the had a historic bike event within the grounds. The cafe was busy but at a respectable price, you could either site inside or site outside by the river & enjoy the view.

D
David Kirkham

David Kirkham

2 months ago

I visited on 12/5/26. I was very impressed with the museum. It was well laid out, easy to walk round to see all the exhibits and there was a huge amount to see. There was lots of information on the exhibits, as well as video footage for some of the exhibits. The Campbell part of the museum was also very good again being well laid out. I also enjoyed a coffee and some cake in the cafe. Would thoroughly recommend.

A
A D

A D

5 months ago

We had a really good time here, plenty to look at. Such a good collection of cars and bikes! After looking round we sat out the back of the cafe with ice creams and a great view of the river flowing along side. Staff was friendly and knowledgeable. You can also visit the bluebird museum free of charge which is next door. Plenty of parking and easy to find.

S
Sue Davies

Sue Davies

10 months ago

Wonderful exhibition, so many cars and memorabilia. The museum is situated in an old warehouse that made Blue powder for the washing of whites. The Campbell exhibition was very well set up too. A great place to visit for car enthusiasts and non car enthusiasts. There is a Cafe on site that is reasonably priced with nice food, freshly cooked on site.

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026

Events at Lakeland Motor Museum

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Lakeland Motor Museum

Is Lakeland Motor Museum free to visit?

Lakeland Motor Museum is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Lakeland Motor Museum dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Lakeland Motor Museum.

Is there parking at Lakeland Motor Museum?

Yes — Lakeland Motor Museum has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at Lakeland Motor Museum?

Yes — Riverside Café is on site at Lakeland Motor Museum. Picturesque riverside café serving food and refreshments on the museum grounds

Is Lakeland Motor Museum pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Lakeland Motor Museum is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Lakeland Motor Museum?

Lakeland Motor Museum is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Lakeland Motor Museum by public transport?

Lakeland Motor Museum is well-served by public transport.
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