Visiting the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden
If you’re looking for a fun, photogenic, and very London day out, the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden is the perfect stop. From red buses to retro tube carriages, it’s full of history, nostalgia, and plenty of Instagram moments. Book London Transport Museum HERE AFF Link.
Where is the London Transport Museum?
The museum is tucked away in Covent Garden Market, inside a beautiful Grade II listed building. Fun fact: it was originally the Covent Garden Flower Market, designed in 1871. When the flowers moved out in 1974, the London Transport Museum moved in and officially opened in 1980.
The space is light, airy, and full of character. Think Victorian cast iron and glass mixed with London transport icons. And yes, plenty of red buses for the perfect photo backdrop.
London Transport Museum
Tickets and Opening Hours
One thing to know: the museum only sells annual passes, even if you just plan to visit once. An adult ticket is currently £25 (with discounts for concessions, off-peak times, and local residents).
While that’s on the pricier side compared to some free London museums, the upside is you can return as many times as you like within the year.
It does get busy at weekends, so if you can, plan a weekday visit for a calmer experience. The museum is family-friendly with loads of activities for children, but they also host occasional Adults-Only Lates, which sound like a lot of fun.
Inside London Transport Museum
How Long Do You Need?
I’d recommend allowing 1.5 to 2 hours. You can absolutely stay longer, especially if you want to read every display, try out the interactive exhibits, or take a café break. But it’s not as huge as the British Museum or Natural History Museum.
London Transport Museum Branding
Highlights Inside the Museum
Stamp Trail
Pick up a stamp trail at the entrance — there are 13 stamps to collect as you make your way through the exhibits. Taylor Swift would approve.
Top Floor: 19th Century London
Your visit begins on Level 2, exploring London in the 1800s. Think horse-drawn carriages rattling through Piccadilly Circus — total Bridgerton vibes.
Level 1: The Birth of the Underground
This section has real Harry Potter energy. Steam-powered underground trains, like a Hogwarts Express moment, plus a restored Metropolitan line carriage. Step inside and check out the old adverts — from building societies to water softener!
This era changed London forever, making it possible to live in leafy suburbs while still commuting into the city.
Inside Metropolitan Train
My Favourite: The 1970s Tube
Don’t miss the 1970s tube carriage, mannequins in flares and Farrah Fawcett hair included. It’s sealed behind glass, but the retro adverts, shiny red-and-green paintwork, and those iconic seat covers are all still there.
70s Tube Carriage at London Transport Museum
Ground Floor: Branding, Posters & Buses
As a marketing girlie, I adored this section — classic tube maps, signage, and posters showing just how timeless and stylish London’s branding has been. (Well, apart from the confusing District/Circle line tangle!)
There are quirky exhibits too, from lost property to old tickets, plus a fascinating video showing how the tube map evolved over time.
Finally, the big red buses! These are the most Instagrammable part of the whole museum, and yes, you can climb aboard for photos.
London Transport Museum
Cafés and Gift Shops
There are two cafés — one inside the main building and another by the book and poster shop. The second is a little quieter and perfect for a sandwich, cake, or coffee break.
And the gift shop? One of the best in London. Bright, colourful, and packed with transport-inspired goodies. I was tempted by mugs in every tube line colour (except the Central Line which is too hot in summer, sorry!).
London Transport Museum
Final Thoughts
The London Transport Museum is a brilliant mix of history, nostalgia, and Instagram-worthy moments. Whether you’re a Londoner, a history buff, or just love the design and branding of the tube, it’s a Covent Garden must-do.
📍 Location: Covent Garden, London
🎟️ Tickets: £25 annual pass (concessions available)
🕑 Time needed: 1.5–2 hours
Book London Transport Museum HERE AFF Link.
London Transport Museum Walkway
✨ I’m Claire and the City, sharing London adventures with a dash of sparkle. If you enjoyed this, check out my YouTube channel for more guides, stories, and stylish city life.
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