The London Transport Museum is a fantastic museum located in the heart of London, in the wonderful historic square of Covent Garden, and is a highly recommended visit.
It was opened in 1980 and is not only in the heart of Covent Garden, but is also located within the old flower market, a Victorian-style construction of wrought iron and glass that reminds us of the train stations and markets of the time.
Our kids love the London Transport Museum and we have included it in our list of the best museums in London.
What to see at the London Transport Museum
This museum is a fascinating journey through the evolution of the different methods of public transport throughout the history of London.
You will see how the first horse-drawn carriages were used for public transport, the first double-decker buses and trams, and of course the evolution of the system that revolutionised London: the Underground. The Metropolitan Railway, which opened in 1863, was the world’s first underground passenger railway.
The visit starts on the top floor, and you make a very informative chronological tour, being able to get on many of the vehicles on display in addition to stopping to see photographs, old billboards and read the posters or listen to the stories of the curiosities of the transport of a city as fascinating as London.
It is also a perfect place to take children, as they can participate in many interactive experiences, such as becoming a driver of a subway car in a simulator that goes through the tunnels and stations, or sit in the driver’s seat of a bus and try all the buttons.
It also has many facilities for children, such as changing rooms, playground and picnic area, cafeteria… And during the weekends and during the vacation season there are workshops and activities.
Location, price and opening hours of the London Transport Museum.
Where is the London Transport Museum
- Address: Covent Garden Square (See Map)
- Nearest Underground: The closest Underground stations to the Museum are Covent Garden (2 mins), Leicester Square (4 mins), Holborn (5 mins), Charing Cross (7 mins) and Embankment (8 mins).
- By bus: Routes and stops can change, so check the TfL Journey Planner or the museum’s official directions before travelling.
London Transport Museum Opening times
- Museum galleries: Open daily from 10.00 to 18.00.
- Last entry: 17.15.
- Holiday changes: Check the museum’s official opening-times page before travelling.
London Transport Museum Ticket Prices
- Adults: The museum sells Annual Passes, with Unlimited, Off Peak and Plus options. Prices and conditions vary, so check the official ticket page.
- Under 18s: Free admission; under-12s must be accompanied by an adult.
- Return visits: Annual Passes are valid for 12 months. You also need a timed entry ticket for each visit.
- London Pass: Admission is currently included. Passholders do not need to book in advance, but entry remains subject to availability. See our London Pass guide.
Accessibility
The nearest step-free station is Tottenham Court Road which is a 10-15 minute walk from the Museum. London Transport Museum is located in the south east corner of Covent Garden Piazza. The Piazza is cobbled, with a level path only part of the way round.
All toilets, including accessible toilets, and baby changing facilities are available on the ground floor.
Eating at the London Transport Museum
Canteen
Canteen is the cafe bar at the Museum, offering a selection of hot and cold drinks, tasty sandwiches and soups and homemade cakes.
Whether you fancy popping in as part of your Museum visit, or maybe you need a short pitstop from shopping in the Covent Garden Piazza, there are a great selection of delicious choices on offer.
There are also family friendly facilities such as high chairs and baby changing units for families to use during the visit.
For more ideas, see our guide to London attractions.
Hi, we are Alberto and Amy, the London locals behind PlanTrip London. We’ve lived in London since 2010 and have spent every year since exploring the city, from its famous landmarks to the markets, pubs, parks and hidden corners most visitors never find. Over the years we became the go-to trip planners for friends and family visiting London, so we created this site to share the same first-hand, tried-and-tested advice with you. Every itinerary, tip and recommendation here comes from our own experience with our two children, so you can plan a London trip that’s easier, better value and far more memorable.