National Motor Cycle Museum

The National Motorcycle Museum is located in Bickenhill, Solihull (West Midlands), right near the NEC. It’s widely considered the finest and largest collection of British motorcycles in the world.

What’s there to see?

This isn’t just a couple of sheds with old bikes; it’s a massive, polished tribute to British engineering. You’ll find five huge halls packed with around 1,000 machines, ranging from the very earliest pioneers of the 1800s to modern superbikes. Highlights include:

• The “Golden Age” bikes like BSAs, Triumphs, and Nortons.
• Unique Prototypes and one-of-a-kind world record breakers.
• Military motorcycles that saw action in the World Wars.

The Vibe: Who is it for?

• Bikers and Petrolheads: This is your version of heaven. You could easily spend 3 to 4 hours poreing over the technical specs.
• Families: It’s more of an “interesting” rather than “hands-on” museum. Everything is very shiny and well-maintained, so it’s a “look but don’t touch” environment.
• Children & Teenagers: Younger kids might find the “row upon row” layout a bit repetitive after an hour. Teenagers who aren’t into mechanics might find it a bit “old school,” as there aren’t many interactive digital screens or high-energy displays.
• Parents: You’ll need to supervise children closely to ensure no one leans on the priceless chrome! It’s not the kind of place where you can sit back while the kids run wild; it’s a respectful, quiet environment.

Money Matters

The entry price is what you’d expect for a major specialist museum. However, they are very good with concessions, offering reduced rates for seniors and children.

• Discounts: Keep an eye out for Blue Light Card discounts or specific owners’ club perks.
• Parking: The great news is that parking is free, which is a rarity given its proximity to the NEC and Airport.
• Food: There is an on-site restaurant and coffee shop. It’s decent quality but can be a bit pricey for a full family meal.

Making a day of it

If you have some people in your group who aren’t into bikes, you are right next to Resorts World Birmingham. You can drop the bike enthusiasts at the museum and take the rest of the gang to the cinema, outlet shopping, or the arcade just five minutes away.

Pro Tip: If you live nearby, check if they are running one of their “Museum Live” events. These usually involve firing up some of the historic bikes so you can actually hear (and smell) them in action, which makes the experience much more “real” for kids.