📍 Bourton-on-the-Water
Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection
Indoor classic-car and toy museum in Bourton, home to the original Brum car.
✦ We visited
Find Brum first, our toddler would not move until we had, then enjoy the old toys and signs. It is the perfect length for a rainy hour or two in Bourton.
The Cotswold Motoring Museum sits in an old water mill in the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water and is a reliable indoor visit, especially on a wet day. It packs in vintage and classic cars, motorcycles, caravans, advertising signs and a large toy collection across atmospheric rooms. For many young children the real draw is Brum, the little car from the classic children's television series, which lives here.
The museum is set out as a series of themed displays that mix nostalgia for grown-ups with plenty for children to spot. There are pedal cars, old toys, enamel signs and quirky exhibits around every corner, and family trails help keep younger visitors engaged. Because it is compact and indoors, it is an easy couple of hours.
It suits toddlers up to older children, and pairs naturally with Birdland and the model village a few minutes' walk away. Brum fans should head straight for him.
Good for: history, rainy-day. Ages: 3–4, 5–7, 8–11, 12+.
Good to know
Is the Brum car at the Cotswold Motoring Museum?
Yes, the original Brum from the children's television series is on display here.
Is the Cotswold Motoring Museum good on a rainy day?
Yes, it is entirely indoors in an old mill, making it a good wet-weather option.
How long do you need at the museum?
Around a couple of hours covers the cars, toys and displays comfortably.