For people who see classic cars as art, visiting a museum is one of the best ways to view a collection. The UK has plenty of great venues and one that’s worth going to is the Haynes International Motor Museum. Established in 1985, the museum has grown to include more than 400 vehicles, dating from 1885 up to the modern day. With lots to check out, we’re looking into the history of the museum and what can be seen while you’re there.
Located at Sparkford near Somerset, the museum was founded by car collector John Haynes. What started out as a storage facility for his collection became a public display that grew over the years. Originally, the museum was a World War II American munitions dump that became something much more.
Today, the museum has a number of exhibitions that can be appreciated for their diversity:
The Dawn of Motoring
The Dawn of Motoring exhibit showcases vehicles from the beginning of automotive history. You’ll be able to see references from motoring pioneers like Benz, Daimler, Volta and Barsanti. Cars on display include an 1886 Benz Patent Motorwagen, 1901 Ormonde and 1903 Curved Dash Oldsmobile.
Veteran and vintage
This exhibit covers automobiles from the Victorian age up until 1930. Some interesting cars to be featured are a 1919 Daimler Light Thirty Phaeton, 1922 Citroen 5CV Cloverleaf and 1939 Delahaye 135M Cabriolet.
Wheels around the world
This exhibit has a wide range of cars from across the globe, with UK, German, French, US and many other manufacturers represented. Cars to watch out for include the 1959 Gaz M13 Chaika and 1975 Bricklin SV-1.
Great British marques
Fans of British cars will find plenty to love about this exhibit, as it features some of the finest examples of English engineering. You’ll be able to see a Jensen Interceptor, Jaguar XK 120, Aston Martin DB2 and more.
Minis and macros
Minis and macros is dedicated to history’s smallest vehicles, ranging from the 1935 Fiat 500 Topolino to the 1994 Bajaj Auto Rickshaw.
Supercar century
This exhibit is a celebration of fast and stylish cars. Cars to see include a 1930 Bentley 4 ½ litre, 1973 E Type Jaguar, 1995 Dodge Viper, 1977 Porsche 911 and 1966 Ford GT40 MKII.
Custom and bespoke
Customisation can make a car stand out and that’s certainly the case with vehicles from this display. Be sure to check out the 1961 Ford Zephyr Custom, 1941 Chevrolet Pick Up and 1958 Morris Minor Split Screen Panel.
Image Credit: Haynes International Motor Museum
