Express & Star

Aldridge Transport Museum named among top days out for visitors

A transport museum based in Walsall has been named as one of the best attractions in the borough.

Published
Alan Bishop and Martin Fisher celebrate the accolade on a 1940 SON Midland Red bus

The Aldridge Transport Museum, which is home to a range of historic vehicles, received the accolade from Three Best Rated.

The company uses a 50-point inspection system to rate cost, reviews, complaints and visitor satisfaction.

Martin Fisher, head of the trustees at the charity, said: "We didn't know anything about it until we had an email from them.

"It's good for us because they say they've done all sorts of assessments including of people's comments and so it must mean we're doing something right.

"And the other side of it if people look at their website for where to go in Walsall it might encourage a few more visitors."

Mr Fisher said the Shenstone Drive museum gave people a sense of "nostalgia" when they visited, with people also allowed to get on the buses on show – including sitting in the driver's seat.

He added: "I think a lot of people come for nostalgia reasons – we get a lot of visitors who have, in the past, worked in the transport industry and therefore they like to come back and jog their memory.

"A lot of the older people look at the buses and say 'I used to go on that bus to school' and they bring grandchildren and show them what it used to be like."

Three Best Rated praised the exhibits and friendly staff, saying: "Aston Manor Road Transport Museum consists mainly of Midland Thematic buses and other vehicles that are perfect for any time visiting.

"This transport museum is a lovely place to visit lots of historic motors.

"The museum has a ton of friendly volunteers and great exhibits offering a good look back on the West Midlands transport history.

"This wonderful place brings back so many childhood memories, and their great collection is really helpful for friendly old vehicle workers."

It was joined by Banks's Stadium, home of Walsall FC, and Walsall's Leather Museum.