Plan your Visit

World-class collection in a World-class museum

First World War 1914 to 1918

When World War I broke out in 1914, Coventry’s car and cycle companies switched from producing transport for the public to making vehicles, munitions and equipment for the British and Allied forces.

With many of the existing workers rushing to join the army, the factories experienced a sudden shortage of labour just as government orders began to flood in. As a result, the employment of women became a necessity. In fact many men and women from the surrounding areas flocked to Coventry, increasing the city’s population from 119,000 to 133,000.

Coventry and its people – along with the rest of Britain – experienced dramatic change during the war. Many of the city’s men either lost their lives or sustained appalling, life-altering injuries. But for Coventry’s motor industry in particular, the long-term effects of the war were largely productive.

Many of the city’s firms made a great deal of money, which they were able to invest into new products and production facilities when the war ended.

Don't miss out on the latest from the Coventry Transport Museum

Home of Record Breakers

Coventry Transport Museum is home to the world's two fastest cars.

Marvel at these spectacular feats of British engineering.

Get up close to the two fastest cars in the world, Thrust SSC and Thrust 2.

Bring the curriculum to life!

Coventry Transport Museum's interactive exhibitions make the perfect venue for school visits in Coventry.

We offer a wide range of sessions for school groups, all 'Learning Outside The Classroom' quality assured.

We thoroughly believe there is no such thing as being too old for play!

Get involved in our ever-growing Family Programme around Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.

We also have free to loan family activities which are available at the Box Office.