Classic cars, motorcycles and the everyday objects of motoring history fill this museum near Newby Bridge. Explore the collection, discover the Campbell Bluebird story and make time for a break beside the River Leven.
Where: Backbarrow, between Newby Bridge and Haverthwaite, close to the A590.
Allow: around 1½–2 hours for the museum, plus time for refreshments or another attraction.
Good for: transport enthusiasts, local history and an indoor day out.
Parking: free customer parking is listed by the museum.
Follow changing styles and technology through classic cars, motorcycles, scooters and bicycles. Enjoy a general wander or take a closer look at the details.
Petrol pumps, advertising and other automobilia put the vehicles in context. Period displays evoke the garages and shops that formed part of everyday life.
The museum also explores local industrial history. Look beyond the vehicles for stories connecting the collection with the surrounding area.
Displays can change. Check the official collection guide if a particular exhibit is important to your visit.
A separate exhibition building tells the story of Sir Malcolm and Donald Campbell’s pursuit of land and water speed records. Its displays include full-size replicas of the 1935 Bluebird car, Bluebird K4 powerboat and Bluebird K7 hydroplane, alongside memorabilia and interpretation.
The K7 displayed here is a replica. For the original restored Bluebird K7, see our Ruskin Museum guide and check the Coniston museum’s current display notices.
Read more about the Campbell Bluebird exhibition.
The museum’s published hours are 9.30am–5.30pm from April to 1 November and 9.30am–4.30pm at other times, with Christmas Day closed. Check the official visitor FAQs before travelling for any changes.
Tickets are available online or at reception. Use the current admission page for adult, child and family prices, rather than older figures elsewhere online. Check the date and conditions of your chosen ticket when booking.
Check official admission information. When booking through GetYourGuide, check the inclusions and validity shown for your chosen ticket.
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The museum offers combined ticket options with nearby transport attractions. Compare the current combined offers, including any restrictions on dates, routes and where to buy.
A ticket combining attractions does not by itself establish how you travel between them. Confirm the connection between the museum, railway station or cruise pier and check the return timetable before booking.
Browse the gallery for a closer look at the museum and its displays. Exhibits and arrangements may differ when you visit.
The museum is in Backbarrow, near Newby Bridge, Cumbria, LA12 8TA. Drivers can follow the brown tourism signs from the A590. It is near the southern end of Windermere, rather than in Windermere town.
For public transport, consult the museum’s directions and bus information and check the operator’s current timetable. Plan the walk from your stop and the return journey, particularly outside the main season.
Ask at reception about the children’s quiz. Looking for details in the vehicles and displays can make a family visit more engaging; allow time for breaks as well as the collection.
The museum publishes a detailed access guide covering its facilities and companion admission arrangements. Read it before booking and contact the museum about any requirements specific to your visit.
Café Ambio and the gift shop can be visited without a museum ticket. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the museum; check with café staff about the areas where dogs can sit.
The main collections are indoors, making this a useful option when the weather changes. Allow for the short outdoor walk from the car park and between separate buildings.
Make the museum part of a stay around Newby Bridge. Other ideas include the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and Windermere Jetty Museum, which explores the lake’s boating heritage. Check travel times and opening days before combining visits.
A nearby base gives you more time to explore the museum and southern Lakes. Check each property’s location, parking and travel connections before reserving.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from qualifying bookings, at no extra cost to you.
