Lakeland Motor Museum

Lakeland Motor Museum, located in Backbarrow near the southern tip of Lake Windermere, offers a fascinating journey through the history of motoring and transport. Set beside the River Leven in the Lake District, the museum houses a remarkable collection of more than 30,000 exhibits gathered over several decades. Visitors can explore displays featuring classic cars, vintage motorcycles, bicycles and motoring memorabilia, alongside exhibitions that highlight the development of road transport and motor racing. One of the museum’s most popular sections celebrates the Isle of Man TT races, showcasing legendary racing machines and the stories of famous riders. The museum also features period shopfronts, historic artefacts and changing displays that help bring the social history of motoring to life.

Accessibility has been carefully considered throughout the museum to provide a mobility friendly experience. The large free car park is located opposite the museum, with tarmacked Blue Badge spaces less than 40 metres from reception. Visitors can also arrange parking closer to the entrance if needed. A gentle slope leads from the entrance gates to a level courtyard, and the reception area provides step free access with a low counter suitable for wheelchair users. Hearing loop systems are installed at reception and in the shop, and wheelchairs are available to borrow on request.

Inside the museum, the exhibition spaces are designed to accommodate wheelchair users and mobility scooters, with doorways offering a minimum width suitable for standard wheelchairs. Most of the floors are carpeted, providing a comfortable surface for mobility aids, and seating is placed at intervals throughout the galleries for visitors who may wish to rest. An automated lift provides access to the first floor exhibition area and includes tactile buttons and emergency assistance features. Large print interpretation panels are available around the displays to support visitors with visual impairments.

Accessible toilet facilities are located on the ground floor of the museum and include a unisex accessible WC with grab rails, lever taps, lateral transfer space and an emergency alarm cord. The museum café is also accessible, offering spacious seating areas with a variety of table heights and views over the River Leven. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the museum, and staff receive regular disability awareness training to support visitors who may need additional assistance.

With its extensive motoring collection, scenic riverside location and inclusive facilities, Lakeland Motor Museum offers an engaging and accessible experience for visitors exploring the Lake District.