The UK is home to some terrific motorbike museums, all with their own character and speciality. Many have grown organically from the personal collections of bona fide enthusiasts and motorcycling professionals, who run them out of love. The smaller museums are prominent on hospitality and a chat - not just for taking a trip down memory lane, but also to get camaraderie, advice and information. Run by folk who eat, sleep and breathe their work, they are an excellent way to while away a few hours and celebrate the fascinating history of motorcycling. And best of all, they're often located in beautiful parts of the country, making them a great stop during a day's ride out or a holiday. Here are some of our favourites.
Sammy Miller Museum, New Milton, Hampshire
The Sammy Miller houses over 500 rare and exotic motorcycles from all over the world, including factory racers, prototypes, and classic bikes, along with every type of motorcycling memorabilia. It offers a deep dive into the history and evolution of motorbikes. It's especially strong on British motorcycles from the early 20th century, with one gallery showcasing the fabulous collection of iconic Norton bikes.
Sammy Miller MBE, an 11-time British Trials Champion and winner of over 1,400 events, has personally restored many of the bikes on display and every motorcycle bar five is in pristine, working condition. Now 91 years of age, he is still on hand most days, fixing bikes in the museum's workshop or chatting with visitors. Staff are knowledgeable, welcoming and enthusiastic.
The museum often hosts events, such as the Ducati UK Roadshow, the Royal Enfield Club Meet, Spring Auto Jumble and themed days such as All Things Italian! and the Kickback Custom Classic Bike Show.
Located in the heart of the New Forest National Park, Sammy Miller's is surrounded by stunning scenery. The area is popular among motorcyclists, and you'll find plenty of biker-friendly pubs, cafes, and accommodation. The museum is also a win if you've got small people in tow, as there are also tea rooms, a play area and even a small animal farm.
Website: The Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum
Silloth Museum, Wigton, Cumbria
A little gem of a museum, housed in a former shop on Esk Street, the Silloth Motorcycle Museum features a range of production and Grand Prix bikes that were raced by the museum's owner, Jim Snaith, at iconic circuits including the Isle of Man TT and Daytona. Manx TT and British motorcycle enthusiasts will love this. Jim is on hand to share his first-hand knowledge and stories of his personal collection. Entry is free and refreshments are available.
Nearby, the peaceful seaside resort of Silloth, west of Carlisle, has a rich motorcycling history, having hosted a well-regarded motorcycle race track from 1961 to 1982, and is blessed by beautiful scenery, perfect for biking.
Website: Silloth Motorcycle Museum
Norfolk Motorcycle Museum, North Walsham, Norfolk
This atmospheric, family-run museum is housed in a former railway goods shed in the charming market town of North Walsham, and is a treasure trove of over 150 motorcycles, ranging from the early 1900s to the 1980s. You'll find vintage and classic bikes in every kind of condition, from disrepair to immaculate.
Founded over 25 years ago by George Harmer and now run by him and his son, Steve, it is very much a working museum, specialising in motorcycle restoration and rebuilds, and supplies all kinds of original and replica parts. George and Steve's passion for motorcycles is evident, and they are always around to welcome visitors. There isn't anything they don't know about restoring bikes, so bring along your questions.
This area of Norfolk is renowned for its peaceful countryside and scenic coastal roads, making it a great location for motorcycle rides. North Walsham itself, ten miles from the coast, offers plenty of biker-friendly pubs and accommodation.
Website: Norfolk Motorcycle Museum
National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham
Located near the NEC, this impressive museum houses over 1,000 mint-condition motorcycles from around the world, from 19th-century pioneer machines to modern superbikes, in a vast five-hall complex. As you might expect, it is home to the world's largest collection of British motorcycles. It also features rare bikes from over 170 different manufacturers. Highlights include:
- Brough Superior SS100: Known as the 'Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles', this legendary bike was a favourite of T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia).
- Vincent Black Shadow: A ground-breaking machine from the 1940s, celebrated for its speed and innovative engineering.
- Norton Commando: A classic British motorcycle that gained fame for its performance and design during the 1960s and 1970s.
- Triumph Bonneville: A symbol of British motorcycling heritage, loved for its style and versatility.
- Ariel Square Four: Renowned for its unique four-cylinder engine and smooth performance.
Alongside the machines you'll find detailed information about every motorcycle and its historical context. There are free guided tours on Fridays and or you can book a private tour. The museum often hosts events, demonstrations, and even sells bikes that have been restored in its workshop.
Website: National Motorcycle Museum
Murray's Motorcycle Museum, Santon, Isle of Man
Don't visit the Isle of Man without dropping into Murray's to soak up this impressive collection of rare and unique motorcycles, and to pass the time of day with Peter Murray, whose father founded the museum way back in 1964. The museum is a treasure trove for fans of the Isle of Man TT and Manx Grand Prix races, crammed to the rafters with all kinds of paraphernalia and artefacts going back to the early days, from signed photos and posters to leathers, helmets and the classic motorcycles themselves, which are beautifully maintained and presented.
Between Douglas and Castletown on the A5, the museum boasts over 150 motorcycles in all, with unusual examples not easily seen elsewhere. Exhibits include an interesting history on Joey Dunlop, including his TT bike. The atmosphere is super friendly, with staff and visitors alike always well up for a cuppa and a chinwag. If you ask nicely, Peter will also give you some unique currency to throw in the water for the 'Mooinjer Veggey' - just down the road at Fairy Bridge. Careful what you wish for!
Website: Murrays Motorcycle Museum
