This month, we’re shining the spotlight on one of our fantastic volunteers, Andrew Walsh, whose passion for British motorcycles and their history has been bringing the National Motorcycle Museum collection to life for more than six years.
Every Friday at 11.30am, Andrew leads our complimentary guided museum tours, welcoming visitors from across the UK and around the world. In recent weeks alone, he has shared the stories of the collection with guests from India, Brazil, the USA and Italy.
Andrew is quick to point out that his tours aren’t technical masterclasses. Instead of focusing on engines and mechanics, he tells the fascinating stories behind Britain’s famous motorcycle marques, the people who built them and the history that shaped them. His aim is simple – to bring the motorcycles to life.
One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to get even closer to the collection. Whenever possible, Andrew brings one of the museum’s motorcycles out for visitors to sit on and experience first-hand – something that makes the tour especially memorable for guests of all ages.
When asked about his favourite motorcycle in the museum, Andrew doesn’t choose one of the famous Brough Superiors that often steal the spotlight. Instead, his heart belongs to the 1924 Montgomery, a machine with a special story. It was the final motorcycle purchased by the museum’s founder, Roy Richards, before his passing, making it a particularly meaningful part of the collection.
Andrew’s enthusiasm doesn’t stop when he leaves the museum. At home, he owns five motorcycles, including a Velocette and a Ducati that he has treasured since he was just 17 years old. He’s also an active member of the Midlands Vintage Motor Cycle Club (VMCC), regularly joining club rides and proudly representing both the museum and the VMCC at events throughout the year.
For Andrew, volunteering is all about sharing stories and meeting people.
“Every tour is different because every group is different,” he says. “It’s wonderful meeting visitors from all over the world and helping them discover the incredible history behind British motorcycles.”
Join Andrew on a Tour
Andrew’s guided tours take place every Friday at 11.30am and are complimentary with museum admission.
If you’re looking for a more personalised experience, private guided tours are also available (subject to availability) for £100 for up to 20 guests.
To arrange a private tour, please contact shop@thenmm.co.uk.
Whether you’re a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast or visiting for the very first time, Andrew’s passion and knowledge make the perfect companion to exploring the world’s largest collection of British motorcycles.
Coventry Road
Comments are closed.