Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection

Location

About

Nestled in the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water in the heart of the Cotswolds, England, the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection is a delightful attraction that will appeal to both car enthusiasts and toy lovers alike.

The museum boasts an impressive collection of vintage and classic cars from the 1920s to the 1980s, which are lovingly restored and beautifully displayed in a series of themed exhibitions. Visitors can wander through the exhibits at their own pace, taking in the details of each car, and learning about the history and development of motoring over the years.

One of the highlights of the museum is the recreated vintage garage, complete with period tools and accessories, which provides a fascinating insight into the workings of a garage in the 1920s. The workshop also features interactive displays that allow visitors to learn more about the inner workings of classic cars and the tools used to maintain them.

But the museum is not just about cars – it also features an extensive collection of toys and games from the 20th century, including vintage dolls, model trains, and arcade games. Visitors can reminisce about their own childhoods while exploring the collection, and younger visitors can discover the toys and games that entertained generations before them.

The Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection is housed in a beautiful Cotswold stone building, which is a historic attraction in its own right. The museum is located on the High Street in Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds. The village is renowned for its beautiful stone buildings, tranquil river, and quaint bridges, and it is a popular destination for tourists exploring the Cotswolds.

The museum is open daily throughout the year, except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Admission fees are reasonable, and guided tours are available for groups and schools. The museum also offers a range of events throughout the year, including vintage car rallies, toy fairs, and themed exhibitions.

Overall, the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection is a charming and fascinating attraction that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a car enthusiast, a toy lover, or just looking for a unique and memorable day out in the Cotswolds, this museum is well worth a visit.

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Things to do nearby

The Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection is a popular tourist destination in Bourton-on-the-Water, a picturesque village in Gloucestershire, England. It is home to a vast collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and other motoring memorabilia, as well as an impressive collection of classic toys and games. While a visit to the museum alone is worth the trip, there are also many other attractions and activities to enjoy in the surrounding area.

Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do nearby the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection:

1. Bourton-on-the-Water: This charming village is known as the "Venice of the Cotswolds" due to the river Windrush that runs through its center. There are many shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore, as well as picturesque bridges and gardens.

2. Birdland Park and Gardens: This wildlife park is home to a wide variety of exotic and native birds, including penguins, pelicans, flamingos, and owls. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful gardens and nature trails.

3. The Model Village: This 1/9th scale replica of Bourton-on-the-Water is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area. The model village includes many of the town's most famous landmarks, including the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection.

4. Cotswold Farm Park: This family-friendly attraction is a working farm that offers visitors the chance to see and interact with a variety of farm animals, including cows, pigs, and sheep. There are also play areas, a maze, and a cafe on-site.

5. Sudeley Castle: This historic castle is located in nearby Winchcombe and is open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the castle's impressive gardens, medieval ruins, and royal connections.

6. Cotswold Wildlife Park: This 160-acre park is home to over 260 species of animals, including lions, giraffes, rhinos, and monkeys. There are also gardens, a narrow-gauge railway, and a children's farmyard on-site.

7. The Rollright Stones: This ancient stone circle is located on the border of Oxfordshire and Warwickshire and is believed to date back to the Bronze Age. Visitors can explore the stones and learn about their history and significance.

8. Cheltenham Racecourse: This world-famous racecourse hosts several horse racing events throughout the year, including the Cheltenham Festival in March. Visitors can also enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar.

9. Cotswold Water Park: This large park is home to over 150 lakes, making it a popular destination for water sports, fishing, and hiking. There are also many restaurants, cafes, and shops in the area.

10. Gloucester Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is located in nearby Gloucester and is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in England. Visitors can explore the cathedral's historic crypt, cloisters, and stained glass windows.

Whether you are interested in history, nature, or just having fun, there is something for everyone to enjoy near the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection. So, plan your trip today and discover all that this beautiful region has to offer!