Behind the Scenes Transport Collection

An exclusive one-hour tour reserved for automotive enthusiasts and historians. Visit the active restoration workshops where conservators work on vehicles, then explore the reserve collection housing prototypes and rare models rarely seen by the public. Limited to eight people per session to maintain intimacy and access. Best for Serious automotive historians. This is a moderate activity lasting 1 hour. Group size: max 8. You meet at Museum reception desk. Key highlights: Active restoration workshops with conservators at work, Prototype vehicles never shown to the public, Rare experimental Coventry designs.

Price: £8

Duration: 1 hour

Difficulty: moderate

Group size: max 8

Minimum age: 8+

Best for: Serious automotive historians

Best time: Tuesday to Friday mornings (10am-11am slots typically quieter). Weekday visits coincide with active restoration work.

Meeting point: Museum reception desk

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

0-5 min Check-in at museum reception desk - Confirm booking and receive safety briefing before entering workshop areas.

5-25 min Restoration workshop tour - Walk through active conservation bays; see vehicles undergoing frame restoration, engine rebuilding, and upholstery work. Conservators explain techniques and current projects.

25-50 min Reserve collection exploration - Access storage areas with prototype vehicles, experimental designs, and rare models. Guide discusses why vehicles are held in reserve and their historical significance.

50-60 min Q&A and museum return - Ask specialists about specific vehicles and restoration methods, then return to main museum areas.

The whole experience takes 1 hour. Difficulty: moderate. You meet at Museum reception desk.

• Active restoration workshops with conservators at work
• Prototype vehicles never shown to the public
• Rare experimental Coventry designs
• Behind-the-scenes conservation techniques
• Expert Q&A with museum staff
• Accessibility: Workshop floors are uneven in places. Not fully wheelchair accessible; discuss access needs when booking. Requires moderate mobility and ability to step over low thresholds.

What is included: 60-minute guided workshop and reserve collection access, Safety briefing and equipment, Expert commentary from conservators, Access areas closed to general visitors.

Not included: General museum admission (included in tour), Photography (in some restricted areas), Hands-on participation in restoration work. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes, Notepad and pen for details, Camera (check photography restrictions on arrival). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Tuesday to Friday mornings (10am-11am slots typically quieter). Weekday visits coincide with active restoration work..

Tip: Advance booking essential

Tip: Limited to 8 people per tour

Accessibility: Workshop floors are uneven in places. Not fully wheelchair accessible; discuss access needs when booking. Requires moderate mobility and ability to step over low thresholds..

Operator: Coventry Transport Museum | Book directly (opens in new tab) | Phone: 024 7623 4270

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Herbert Art Gallery & Museum (5 min walk)
• Coventry Cathedral (8 min walk)
• War Memorial Park (15 min walk)

This activity is run by Coventry Transport Museum.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before tour; non-refundable within 48 hours.

Accessibility: Workshop floors are uneven in places. Not fully wheelchair accessible; discuss access needs when booking. Requires moderate mobility and ability to step over low thresholds..

Best time to go: Tuesday to Friday mornings (10am-11am slots typically quieter). Weekday visits coincide with active restoration work..

Why is the behind-the-scenes tour limited to 8 people?

The small group size is intentional. It allows the conservators to work without disruption, ensures safety in active workshop areas, and provides a personal experience. Larger groups would be impractical in restoration bays and reserve storage areas.

How do I book the behind-the-scenes transport museum tour?

Book directly with Coventry Transport Museum via their website or phone (024 7623 4270). Booking is essential as tours fill quickly, especially in summer. Book at least one week in advance; availability is typically Tuesday to Friday.

What vehicles are in the reserve collection?

The reserve holds prototype vehicles, experimental designs, and rare models too delicate for display. Examples include early experimental Jaguars, motorcycle prototypes, and vehicles undergoing long-term conservation. The collection changes as restoration work progresses.