Craven Collection of Classic Bikes

Housed in Brockfield Villa near Stockton-on-the-Forest, the Craven Collection is a privately owned display of predominantly British classic motorcycles assembled by racer and collector Dick Craven. The collection dates back to its public opening in the 1990s and is noted for a large number of running machines and assorted automobilia.

Expect over 200 machines including BSA, Norton, Vincent and military/police bikes, plus sidecars, scooters and period signage. The museum is small and personal in feel, listed on local tourism sites and best visited by checking opening days before you travel.

A compact, privately run display focused on rideable classic motorcycles and memorabilia.

Look out for:

• Dozens of British marques: BSA, Norton, Vincent, Matchless and others.

• Military, police and trials machines, plus sidecars and scooters.

• Extensive automobilia: signs, pumps and ephemera that give context to the bikes.

• Many bikes reported as running and maintained by the collector.

Best way to experience it:
Arrive prepared — the venue is set in a village outside York and typically opens on limited days. Allow an hour to 90 minutes to see the main displays and ask the host about specific machines if you’re interested in technical or restoration stories.

• The collection is a private museum with limited opening days; confirm visiting times in advance.

• Some listings note cash-only transactions; bring cash or check ahead for card facilities.

• The site is in a village outside central York; driving routes via A166/Holtby may avoid congestion.

• Facilities are modest; plan accordingly (parking is on-site but check accessibility specifics beforehand).