Tyrwhitt-Drake Museum of Carriages
Explore a vast collection of horse-drawn vehicles in historic 14th-century stables. Free entry makes this a unique historical gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Tyrwhitt-Drake Museum of Carriages
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vast collection of horse-drawn vehicles in historic 14th-century stables. Free entry makes this a unique historical gem.
"Free and full of fantastic coaches, this museum is a superb historical find!"
🎯 Verify Opening Hours
Crucial! The museum has very limited opening times. Always check their website before visiting.
💰 Free Entry, Donate!
Admission is free, but donations are highly appreciated to help maintain this wonderful collection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Carriage Collection
Explore a huge range of horse-drawn vehicles, from elegant coaches to unique modes of transport.
14th-Century Stables
Step back in time within the atmospheric setting of historic, medieval stables.
Functional Mayor's Carriage
See a carriage still used annually for the Mayor's special occasions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Times Before You Go
Free Entry, But Donations Welcome
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Verify Opening Hours
Crucial! The museum has very limited opening times. Always check their website before visiting.
💰 Free Entry, Donate!
Admission is free, but donations are highly appreciated to help maintain this wonderful collection.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring two floors of fascinating exhibits, so comfortable footwear is a must.
🚫 No Toilets Onsite
Plan accordingly as there are no restroom facilities available at the museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Verify Opening Hours
Crucial! The museum has very limited opening times. Always check their website before visiting.
💰 Free Entry, Donate!
Admission is free, but donations are highly appreciated to help maintain this wonderful collection.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring two floors of fascinating exhibits, so comfortable footwear is a must.
🚫 No Toilets Onsite
Plan accordingly as there are no restroom facilities available at the museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the vast and fascinating collection of carriages housed in this free museum, often describing it as a hidden gem. The historical significance and the unique setting within 14th-century stables are major draws. However, the extremely limited opening hours and lack of on-site facilities are frequently mentioned drawbacks.
"This two-storey museum is free, the range of carriages is huge. But check the opening time on the website. It is very rarely opened. But it is absolutely worthy the visit"
Il y a D
"I wasn't expecting this museum to be (a) free, and (b) so full of fantastic coaches. I am certainly no expert, but I do love a good museum. This was a superb museum and I came away wanting to know more about coaches. NB horse and people pulled coaches and not "bus" type coaches. Also no toilets on site."
Andy Hoare
"What a fabulous place! Firstly the wonderful staff were very accomodating - letting the Bellringing Motorcyclists use their forecourt to park for an hour. Then quite a few of us took a few minutes to have a look inside and were amazed at the collection of really old horse and carriage 'coaches'. I wish I could have spent more time looking round the two floors because it was so fascinating. It's free too - but please leave a donation to help them keep this open.
Thank you Lyndsey and Ian for being such wonderful staff!"
Catherine Piper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Maidstone, Kent. Specific public transport options and parking details should be confirmed via local transport websites or by contacting the museum directly, as information can vary.
Parking availability can be limited in historic town centers. It's advisable to research nearby public car parks or consider public transport options to reach the museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the museum offers free admission! However, donations are gratefully accepted to help with the upkeep of the collection. +1
The museum has very limited opening hours and is not open daily. It is essential to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times before planning your visit.
As entry is free and hours are limited, booking is typically not required. However, for group visits or special events, it's always best to contact the museum directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll discover a vast and fascinating collection of horse-drawn vehicles, including coaches, carriages, and other unique modes of transport, spread across two floors. +1
Yes, children can enjoy a bobbing horse to ride on while exploring the exhibits, making it a fun experience for younger visitors.
A visit can take anywhere from an hour to a couple of hours, depending on your interest in historical transport and how thoroughly you wish to explore the two floors of exhibits.
There are no toilets or catering facilities on-site, so visitors should plan accordingly before their visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions or ask a staff member upon arrival.
The sheer variety and historical detail of the carriages offer numerous photo opportunities. Focus on the intricate designs and the atmospheric setting of the old stables.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no on-site facilities like restrooms or cafes, the free entry makes it an affordable outing. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to history in a tangible way, seeing the actual vehicles that were once a primary mode of transport. Remember to check opening times carefully, as they are limited, and plan your visit accordingly.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the museum itself is free, it's highly recommended to leave a donation if you can. This helps ensure that this unique historical resource remains open and accessible for future visitors. It's a fantastic way to experience local culture and history affordably.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Transport History
What makes the museum particularly special is its free admission, making it an accessible cultural experience for all. Reviewers consistently praise the huge range of carriages and the fascinating insights they offer into social history. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the ingenuity and artistry that went into creating these vehicles before the advent of motorized transport. The staff are often highlighted for their welcoming nature, adding to the positive visitor experience.
While the museum is compact, its two floors are packed with history. One unique highlight is a carriage that remains functional and is still used annually for the Mayor's processions, demonstrating the enduring legacy of these historical modes of transport. For families, the provision of a bobbing horse for children adds an interactive element, ensuring younger visitors are engaged.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit