Coventry Transport Museum

The world's largest collection of British road transport includes the ThrustSSC land speed record car and the largest collection of British motorcycles. Interactive galleries cover everything from penny-farthings to Formula 1 cars, focusing on Coventry's role as Britain's motor city. It ranks among Coventry's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Entry is free and 2-3 hours gives you a thorough visit.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 2-3 hours Best for: best free museum in the west midlands with world Skip if: You have no interest in cars, motorcycles, or local industrial heritage Cost: Free

Walk through chronological galleries from Victorian bicycles to modern supercars. Sit inside replica cars, experience the noise of a 1970s factory floor, and see the actual ThrustSSC that broke the sound barrier.

Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with lifts to all floors and accessible toilets

Best free museum in the West Midlands with strong car collection and engaging local history. That puts it near the top of any Coventry visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Coventry Cathedral and Herbert Art Gallery & Museum - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Coventry. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You have no interest in cars, motorcycles, or local industrial heritage

• Start with the Land Speed Record gallery on the ground floor.
• The Ghost Town experience recreates 1940s Coventry during the Blitz.
• Interactive simulators work better with fewer crowds.

Insider tip: The museum café serves decent coffee and has views over the cathedral quarter

Photography encouraged throughout, dramatic lighting on the Land Speed Record cars