What you'll see
The collection is one of the largest of its kind in Europe, with over 60 largely unrestored vehicles offering a rare view of original design and craftsmanship. It spans from the late 17th century to the 20th century and includes early British carriages, royal state vehicles, sedan chairs, sleighs, and everyday transport.
Highlights range from grand ceremonial coaches associated with figures such as Queen Victoria to more practical vehicles used in daily life, alongside a wider collection of related objects including harnesses, tools, and archival material that help bring the history of horse-drawn travel to life.
Highlights include:
- State and ceremonial carriages, including examples associated with royal use
- Victorian taxis, known as ‘growlers’
- Sedan chairs and smaller forms of urban transport
Together, these vehicles show how design, status, and practicality shaped transport in the past.
Beyond their function, many of the vehicles reflect a high level of craftsmanship.
Materials, construction techniques, and decorative details reveal the skill involved in building and maintaining horse-drawn transport.
The museum was founded through the work of Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake, a former Mayor of Maidstone and a passionate collector.
As horse-drawn vehicles began to disappear from everyday use, he recognised that an important part of social history was being lost. He actively sought out carriages across the country—placing adverts and rescuing vehicles that might otherwise have been destroyed or repurposed.
His efforts led to the opening of the Carriage Museum in 1946. It was the first museum of its kind in Britain and remains one of the most important collections in Europe.
A historic setting
The collection is housed in the 14th-century stables of the Archbishop’s Palace.
Originally part of a medieval complex used by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the building has served many purposes over time, including industrial use and wartime functions. It was only in the mid-20th century that it became a permanent home for the carriage collection.
Today, the historic setting adds context and atmosphere to the vehicles on display.
Location and visiting
The Carriage Museum is located separately from Maidstone Museum, on Mill Street.
If you are planning to visit both sites, we recommend checking travel details and opening times in advance.
Supporting the museum
The Carriage Museum relies on the support of volunteers to help keep it open and accessible. If you are interested in getting involved, you can find more information below.