Lakeland Motor Museum

About this activity

The Lakeland Motor Museum is a unique destination that car enthusiasts, families, and anyone with an interest in the history of the automobile will enjoy. Located in Backbarrow, Cumbria, in the heart of the Lake District, the museum boasts an impressive collection of vintage and modern cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and even a steam-powered road locomotive.

The museum's exhibits are spread across several halls and include a variety of displays that showcase the evolution of the automobile and its impact on society. One of the standout exhibits is the Campbell Bluebird Exhibition, which pays tribute to Sir Malcolm and Donald Campbell and their record-breaking Bluebird vehicles. Here, you'll see the iconic Bluebird CN7, which set the land speed record in 1964, as well as a replica of the Bluebird K7, which Donald Campbell used to break water speed records.

Another popular exhibit is the Isle of Man TT Tribute, which features vintage and modern TT bikes and interactive displays that allow visitors to experience the thrill of the famous motorcycle race. There's also the Leven Valley Collection, which showcases a range of everyday items from the early 20th century, including toys, kitchen appliances, and even a dentist's chair.

In addition to these exhibits, the Lakeland Motor Museum also has a collection of vintage and classic cars that includes everything from pre-World War I models to modern sports cars. Among the most noteworthy vehicles on display are a 1936 Auburn 852 Speedster, a 1931 Rolls Royce Phantom II, and a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. The museum also features a unique display of microcars, which were popular in Europe in the 1950s and 1960s and include vehicles like the Messerschmitt KR200 and the Peel P50.

But the Lakeland Motor Museum isn't just for car enthusiasts. It also features exhibits that highlight the history and culture of the Lake District, including the area's impact on the automobile industry. Visitors can learn about the first motor race in the Lake District, which took place in 1901, and see vintage photos and artifacts from the early days of motoring in the region.