It’s time to come marching into the National Army Museum this summer – the ultimate free hidden gem museum for all. Whether you’re coming for a family-friendly day out with the kids, a unique date (if that’s your vibe, no one’s judging) or simply as an army of one, you’ll most definitely find something to enjoy around here. We know it’s not your typical London museum day out, but that’s what makes the National Army Museum so interesting. This ace institution has really gone the extra mile to ensure that there is a range of great activities to do inside its doors – history buff or not.
And as the national home of the history and heritage of the Army, the National Army Museum showcases these stories through interactive galleries, thought-provoking displays and well-curated exhibitions. Need a little more convincing? Here are our top five reasons why you need to visit the National Army Museum this summer.
The National Army Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 5.30pm. Entry to all galleries and temporary exhibitions is free. The National Army Museum is located on Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 4HT.
If you’re visiting the National Army Museum, chances are you’re coming for the history. From going back in time to the Napoleonic Era and immersing yourself in the Battle of Waterloo to learning about the all-female Auxiliary Territorial Force, there is a steep level of British history to be discovered here. As the decades have passed, so have the ever-changing roles within the Army and you’ll have the unique opportunity to uncover them all first-hand.
Fancy yourself a bit of an art buff? Well, you’re in luck. The National Army Museum frequently hosts new exhibitions and talks, and this summer, a stellar line-up awaits. There’s plenty to choose from, but our top pick? The Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria exhibition showcasing rarely seen artworks that highlight the shifting attitudes towards soldiers during Queen Victoria’s reign – as well as the Museum’s expansive archival and library collections to explore.
Got some curious little ones to entertain this summer? Round up the troops because the National Army Museum has a fantastic range of kid-friendly activities to choose from. Here’s a snippet of the best ones: Play Base, an immersive soft-play experience for children under eight; Stamper Trail, a series of engaging challenges to join around the Museum’s galleries; and the chance to Beat the Battle Drum, where you and the kids can learn to beat the right command on an authentic battle drum. Squad goals indeed.
Solo visit on a weekday? Be sure to come along for one of the National Army Museum’s Friday Lunchtime Lectures. Offering visitors insightful deep dives from experts speaking on the various aspects of the Army and its rich history, you’ll have the chance to expand your knowledge and learn something new – all on your lunch break. Ever wondered what a soldier’s perspective is on the Army? Visit the Soldier gallery to hear a range of Soldier Stories straight from the horse’s mouth.
Yes, it’s true, a range of unique photo opportunities is available to you at the National Army Museum! From a Sentry Box selfie in one of the King’s Guards uniforms to a photo with the Challenger II tank at the Museum’s entrance to commemorate your visit, you’ll leave knowing you’ve captured a memory that will last a lifetime – as does the history of the Army and its dedicated soldiers. Mission: complete.
Plan your visit to the National Army Museum here.
