National Army Museum

The National Army Museum examines how Britain's past has helped shape its future and the impact the army has had on the story of the British Isles, Europe and the rest of the world.

The museum was established in 1953 and is located adjacent to the Royal Hospital Chelsea, it is constantly developing and enhancing its exhibitions and now has a dedicated Kids Zone that helps unleash the imagination through play, the zone features a forest and castle, art activities and other interactive opportunities for children.

The Galleries at the Museum are split up into the following sections;

The Making of Britain takes a look at goings on between 1066 and 1783; examining foreign invasions, civil wars and wars on European soil.

Changing the World looks at how British trade and the British Empire affected the shape of the world we know today. This section also features a 40 square metre model of the Battle of Waterloo.

World Wars examines the British defence of democracy during World Wars, how British and Commonwealth forces came together to protect their cultures.

Fighting for Peace explores the British army's role from 1946 to the present days taking a look at peacekeeping situations in Kosovo, our involvement with the Cold War, the Falklands, Suez Crisis and Gulf War.

If you are pushed for time there are self-guided tours visitors can partake in leading them to the many highlights of the National Army Museum, including war heroes, war icons and war animals. There are also tens of online exhibitions visitors can take a look at before visiting. Temporary exhibitions and family events take place throughout the year; you can find out more about these in our Family and Exhibitions sections.

The National Army Museum is open every day from 10am till 5.30pm excepting Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, Good Friday and May Bank Holiday.

Find out more about the National Army Museum

How to get there

The closest tube stations are at Sloane Square and South Kensington.

If travelling by bus the  number 11, 19, 22 and 211 serve the King's Road, the 137 serves Pimlico Road and the 239 stops outside the Museum.