THE HERITAGE MOTOR CENTRE AT GAYDON

Far more than a traditional car museum, the Heritage Motor Centre at Gaydon is both a major public attraction and a research and educational centre- fulfilling the twin aims of the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust. The Trust is an educational charity established to collect and conserve vehicles, artifacts and records relating to the various companies which have come together for the benefit of the nation. Here under one roof, is the most comprehensive display of historic British cars anywhere in the world, taken from a collection of more than 300 classic and historic vehicles. Extensively represented here are the world famous marques of Rover, Austin, Morris, Wolseley, Riley, Standard, Triumph, MG and Austin- Healey. Some other marques are also featured in the displays. The cars date from the earliest 1896 Wolseley to the present day.

The magic of Gaydon.

It starts to unfold from the moment you arrive, and board the specially designed Land Rover shuttle which takes you from the car park to the main complex.

The building itself is an outstanding architectural achievement, with its imposing proportions and strong Art Deco influence. The historic vehicles are displayed in the main museum hall, which provides a striking setting with its semi- circular design, unique roof structure and subtle lighting.

On the first floor you will find the Engineering Gallery with its displays of engines, suspensions, transmissions, sectioned cars and other components, demonstrating many of the moving parts that go into a motorcar. The displays are interesting, informative and above all, accessible. A noticeable absence of the usual rope barriers allows close inspection, bringing the past dramatically close to life. The collection has something to appeal to everyone. Exhibitions such as ‘Fashion and the Motorcar’, for example, show the close connection between motorcar design and the style influences of the Edwardian period.

For researchers and serious enthusiasts, the centre holds a comprehensive technical archive of several million engineering drawings, production records, photographs and rare film material. This is accessible via private reading room which is open to all- ideal for passing interest, school projects or more detailed research.

Vehicles that made racing and rallying history are featured here, as are unique prototypes, and a number of design concepts which never saw the light of day. In addition to the Trust’s own priceless collection, Gaydon also features prominent displays from the Lucas and Corgi museum collections.

As the new focus of motoring history in the UK, and with its easily accessible, central location, Gaydon is a natural venue for all kinds of special events. These include car club rallies on most weekends during the summer months, plus a variety of other events ranging from car auctions to auto jumbles and antique fairs.