Looking for the ultimate family day out? With Museum Selfie Day just around the corner on 15th January, there’s never been a better time to visit some of the UK’s most iconic car museums.
Whether you’re a lifelong car enthusiast or a parent planning a fun family outing, these destinations - shortlisted by Regtransfers - offer the perfect mix of nostalgia, hands-on activities, and, of course, plenty of selfie opportunities!
Museum Selfie Day was started by a London blogger named Mar Dixon. It caught on quickly and the results can be seen on social media.
Many museums have, in the past, displayed signs discouraging photography. Some still do - especially art museums and galleries - but many have chilled out a little and don't bat an eyelid at selfie-snapping tourists and visitors. Museum Selfie Day is the perfect opportunity to grab some great pics, and to become better acquainted with our wonderful museums.
British Motor Museum
Gaydon, Warwickshire
Step into Britain’s motoring past at this must-see museum. With over 300 classic cars on display, it’s a treasure trove for car enthusiasts. Parents will love the rare prototypes and historic vehicles, while kids can dive into fun, interactive exhibits.
Don’t miss: The museum’s upcoming feature exhibition “From Sketch to Street” takes place from 5pm to 9pm on 11th February, exploring the interior and exterior design, function and construction materials of our cars
Take a selfie with: One for the adults; car design legend and former Design Director for Jaguar, Ian Callum CBE, will be hosting an evening of insight and industry knowledge at the museum from 5:15pm on Monday 27th January 2025. You might be lucky enough to get a selfie with him (if you ask nicely)! See britishmotormuseum.co.uk for all event details and tickets.
National Motor Museum
Beaulieu, Hampshire
Nestled in the beautiful New Forest, the National Motor Museum is a gem for petrolheads and families. The collection spans over 250 vehicles, including some instantly recognisable favourites from the big screen. It’s worth noting that museum inclusions can move from site to site, so if you’re after a specific car, you might want to call in advance to avoid disappointment.
Don’t miss: The museum will be taking the MG raffle car and Sunbeam 1000hp restoration out on the road this year.
Take a selfie with: Some of your favourite cars at one of their fourteen “Simply” rallies set to take place throughout 2025.
Brooklands Museum
Weybridge, Surrey
History comes alive at Brooklands, the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit. In the unlikely event that you get bored with cars, there’s an impressive aviation collection on offer here too. Older kids will love exploring the interior of a Concorde, while parents and car fans explore the vintage motors and learn about the golden age of racing.
Don’t miss: Walking on the famous Brooklands track – a unique slice of motorsport history.
Take a selfie with: The Napier-Railton, a record-breaking vintage racing car.
Haynes International Motor Museum
Sparkford, Somerset
Whether you’re into vintage classics, muscle cars, or cutting-edge supercars, Haynes has it all. With over 400 vehicles on display, this museum is a playground for car lovers. The themed zones make it easy to explore everything from British classics to 1950s Americana.
Don’t miss: The jaw-dropping supercar collection.
Take a selfie with: The bright red Ferrari in the Supercar Exhibit – a showstopper!
Coventry Transport Museum
Coventry, West Midlands
The home of the world’s two fastest cars, Coventry hosts the heart of Britain’s motoring history, and this museum celebrates it in style. From vintage cars to record-breaking speed machines like the Thrust SSC, there’s something to amaze everyone. Beyond this, the interactive exhibits are sure to keep kids entertained.
Don’t miss: The 4D simulator that lets you feel the thrill of land-speed racing.
Take a selfie with: The Thrust SSC, the world’s fastest car – a selfie worth bragging about.
Lakeland Motor Museum
Backbarrow, Cumbria
This delightful museum combines the charm of the Lake District with a collection of over 30,000 automotive treasures. It’s not overwhelming, making it an excellent choice for families with younger children. From classic cars to quirky memorabilia, there’s plenty to see.
Don’t miss: The museum boasts perhaps the largest collection of motoring memorabilia on public display in the UK.
Take a selfie with: The Bluebird K7 model, a tribute to Donald Campbell’s world-record attempts.
Grampian Transport Museum
Alford, Aberdeenshire
Located in the picturesque village of Alford, the Grampian Transport Museum showcases a fascinating collection of vehicles, from vintage cars to historic motorcycles and buses. The museum’s displays are constantly updated, meaning there’s always something new to discover. It’s a great destination for families and car enthusiasts alike.
Don’t miss: The Mack 6X6 Snowplough - a hefty military vehicle widely used for heavy haulage, recovery, and specialist duties during dispersal after the war.
Take a selfie with: The stunning 1910 Sentinel Steam Waggon, a piece of motoring history that’s bound to impress.
The Great British Car Journey
Ambergate, Derbyshire
This newer addition to the UK’s museum scene offers a fresh, interactive take on motoring history. With over 130 cars on display, visitors can trace the story of British car manufacturing while enjoying hands-on exhibits.
Don’t miss: The Drive Dad’s Car experience – a chance to ride in a classic car!
Take a selfie with: The Morris Minor, a nostalgic gem that’s sure to spark conversation.
Ulster Transport Museum
Cultra, Northern Ireland
Located near Belfast, the Ulster Transport Museum offers a complete look into the history of transport and social change in Northern Ireland. The museum boasts an extensive collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, trams, and locomotives, providing an engaging experience for both families and car enthusiasts.
Don’t miss: CBeebies star, Grace Webb, will be visiting the museum in February to explore the Rail Gallery.
Take a selfie with: The Ferguson Black Tractor, which sees its welcome return to the museum
The Isle of Man Motor Museum
Jurby, Isle of Man
Though not technically part of the UK, The Isle of Man Motor Museum is an important part of motoring history that’s well worth visiting. Located on a former RAF base, the museum is the brainchild of Denis and Darren Cunningham who, after over 30 years of collecting and storing 200 cars in multiple locations, built the location from the ground up to house their collection. Since then, local collectors have added to the display and there are now over 550 vehicles to see, including steam, petrol and electric cars from the dawn of the last century through 1960s family favourites to modern-day supercars. The collection includes TT and Manx Grand Prix race-winning machines, as well as hundreds of items of road racing memorabilia, trophies and medals.
Don’t miss: The TT (Tourist Trophy) collection, celebrating the Isle of Man’s legendary motorsport heritage.
Take a selfie with: The iconic Peel P50, the world’s smallest car – quirky and unforgettable!
Celebrate Museum Selfie Day in Style
Car museums aren’t just places to admire vintage motors – they’re interactive, educational, and full of Instagram-worthy moments. With Museum Selfie Day taking place on 15th January, it’s the perfect excuse to visit one of these incredible spots, snap a memorable selfie, and share your adventure.
