British Commercial Vehicle Museum

Submerge yourself in a nostalgic environment, packed with sounds, smells and sights from a bygone era. 

Enjoy a sensory experience, loved by both young and old.  Hear the real people stories, from factory workers, drivers and as well as the great inventors whose innovations shape our everyday lives.  The British Commercial Vehicle Museum charts British commercial vehicle history since the 1800s.  This friendly, volunteer run organisation is dedicated to preserving the history of the UK road transport industry.  The museum is housed in the original inspection building of Leyland Motors and has a traditional Northern Light roof.  

The museum is easy to reach (minutes off the M6 at junction 28), in the heart of Lancashire.  Spot vintage vans, huge trucks, retro buses and glorious red fire engines.  Take pleasure in exploring treasures, lovingly restored and cared for.  Follow the footsteps of a saint and visit a Pope mobile.  Made especially for the Saint John Paul II, who was canonised as a saint.  This vehicle ensured Pope John Paul II had a safe trip around the England in 1982.  Local truck manufacturer Leyland Trucks, who are still building Trucks in Lancashire today, proudly built the precious museum gem.  

Make connections with the past, bring back memories of the unusual ways that everyday goods such as milk, groceries and hay for animals used to be transported.  Trace the story of energy and innovation through time, starting with the horse drawn cart, steam power, petrol, diesel and today's more energy efficient green hybrid vehicles.  Enjoy the scale and splendour of fascinating trucks, carriages, vehicles and engines, set to inspire your imagination in this most magical setting. 

Amidst the shiny metal, spot the glamorous Leyland Ladies, a sophisticated collection of pictures originally used for the Leyland Motors calendar.  Up-market and issued long before the more risqué Michelin and Pirelli calendars came on the scene.  This is a must for anyone interested in art and style, with fashion and hairstyles dating from 1935.  

Visit on one of the special weekends throughout the year, which bring new vehicles and more opportunities to get involved.  Look out for popular annual events. 

Take time to rest and enjoy a light bite in the canteen style café and browse the shop for that unusual gift or visit memento.  Above all, take time out with family and friends for a relaxing journey and an experience packed with nostalgia.  

The museum is open at other dates and times for pre-booked group packages for both adults and children.