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 streetcars, and of course, the evolution of the method of transport that revolutionized London: The Underground, the first method of public subway public transport in the world that today is more than 150 years old.
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: The closest bus stops to the Museum are Strand or Aldwych (RV1, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 139).
London Transport Museum Opening times
- Saturday to Thursday: 10.00 to 18.00 h.
- Friday: 11.00 to 18.00 h.
- Closed: January 1st; December 24th, 25th and 26th.
London Transport Museum Ticket Prices
- Adults: £18.50. Free admission with the London Pass.
- Under 18s: Free admission.
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.
Psst! Have you read our guide with the best things to do in London? It includes some secret places that even some Londoners don’t know about.