The London Transport Museum

There had been a fruit and vegetable market in Covent Garden for centuries, however, in 1978 the market was relocated to Nine Elms. The London Transport Museum is housed in what used to be the flower market, designed by William Rogers.

The Museum was opened in 1980 by Princess Anne. The London Transport Museum tells the fascinating story of the History of London Transport since the Nineteenth Century. Permanent exhibitions include 'The Birth of London Transport', an exploration into the instigation of London’s first public transport system, introduced in 1829 and continues through the rise of horse drawn vehicles. The 'Trams and Trolleybuses' feature catalogues London’s shift towards electric transport- far cheaper to run than horsepower and the first real mass transport system through the city streets.

Built in 1911 and one of only two left in the world- the earliest motor bus is available to view and gives visitors an insight into the development of the famous London Double Decker. The museum goes on to illustrate the rise of public transport and the mass production of petrol-powered vehicle and the scale that the industry and the profound impact it had on the Capital.
In addition to public transport, there are many fine examples of private vehicles dating back over the past 150 years. There is a small admission fee to visit the London Transport Museum and it is easily accessed via Covent Garden tube station.

Book tickets in advance for the best prices. Children go free!