National Army Museum

National Army Museum We tell the story of the Army from the perspective of those who have served in it. Open Tuesdays to Sundays. Free for all.

Established in 1960 by Royal Charter, the National Army Museum is the United Kingdom’s leading authority on the history and traditions of the British Army. It explores the impact that soldiers from Britain, Ireland and the Commonwealth have had throughout the world, from the 17th century to the present day. Through its world-class collections, the Museum safeguards and shares the stories and value

s of ordinary people who have been called upon to bear extraordinary responsibilities on behalf of others.

This FV510 Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicle was in operations in Iraq in 2004.Recently decommissioned after more than 4...
01/06/2026

This FV510 Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicle was in operations in Iraq in 2004.

Recently decommissioned after more than 40 years of Army service, the vehicle has been gifted to the Museum by the British Army. Today, it stands as a powerful reminder of the courage and service of the soldiers who have served in it.

See the vehicle on free public display outside the National Army Museum from 2–14 June.

📍 National Army Museum, Chelsea
📅 2–14 June
🎟️ Free entry

in 1656: The Grenadier Guards were formed. Founded in 1656 in Bruges by Lord Wentworth as a part of Charles II bodygua...
30/05/2026

in 1656: The Grenadier Guards were formed.

Founded in 1656 in Bruges by Lord Wentworth as a part of Charles II bodyguard in his exile during the rule of Oliver Cromwell.

Upon the restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Charles brought Wentworth's unit with him and alongside a new regiment devised by John Russell.

Upon Wentworth's death in 1665 these units merged creating the 1st Regiment of Foot. becoming the first serving regiment under the monarchy.

The Grenadier Guard have retained the senior role in the Order of Precedence since 1660 and have served in British Army campaigns from the War in Tangier (1680) through till deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan.

You can find out more about the Grenadier Guards by visiting our website: https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/grenadier-guards

James Frederick Plunkett served on the Western Front throughout the First World War and became one of the most highly de...
29/05/2026

James Frederick Plunkett served on the Western Front throughout the First World War and became one of the most highly decorated servicemen.

His full wartime honours were: Distinguished Service Order with Two Bars; Military Cross; Distinguished Conduct Medal; French Croix de Guerre; and five mentions in despatches.

Read the full story at https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/lieutenant-colonel-james-frederick-plunkett

28/05/2026

Inspired by the art 🎨

Discover Victorian art-themed gifts inspired by the striking paintings featured in Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria.

Explore the exhibition and browse the full range in the National Army Museum Gift Shop.

📍 National Army Museum, Chelsea
🎟️ Free entry
📅 Exhibition open until 1 November 2026

Find out more about the exhibition https://www.nam.ac.uk/whats-on/myth-and-reality

26/05/2026

Queen Victoria took a deep interest in how her Army was portrayed.

She commissioned artworks documenting battles, soldiers and sacrifice, turning military campaigns into national memory and shaping how the public understood war itself.
These artworks didn’t just record events; they shaped belief, blurring the line between myth and reality.

Discover the stories behind these powerful paintings in Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria.

📅 Until 1 November 2026
📍 National Army Museum, Chelsea
🎟️ Free entry

Looking for somewhere to stay cool in London this week? ❄️Step inside the National Army Museum and explore centuries of ...
26/05/2026

Looking for somewhere to stay cool in London this week? ❄️

Step inside the National Army Museum and explore centuries of Army history while escaping the heat.

We’re proud to be part of London’s Cool Spaces scheme, Cool spaces are indoor spaces for Londoners to shelter from the sun, cool down, rest and take respite on hot days.

🧊 Free entry
📍 Chelsea, London
🎨 Explore our galleries and exhibitions
☕ Café and gift shop on site

Find your nearest cool space via apps.london.gov.uk/cool-spaces/

20/05/2026

Join us for a gallery tour exploring the evolution of medicine in the British Army.

Throughout its history, the British Army has been at the forefront of medical advancements. From leeching and anaesthesia to blood transfusions and plastic surgery, military innovations have been hugely influential on civilian medical practice.

Book your ticket here https://www.nam.ac.uk/whats-on/gallery-tour-medicine-british-army

📍 National Army Museum
📅 23 May 2026
⏰ 2:00PM - 3:00PM
🎟️ £2.00

in 1820: Florence Nightingale was born in Tuscany. Her legacy was cemented during her time as a nurse during the Crime...
12/05/2026

in 1820: Florence Nightingale was born in Tuscany. Her legacy was cemented during her time as a nurse during the Crimean War where she became a great reformer for modern nursing and improving the conditions of the military hospital in Scutari becoming widely known as the 'Lady with the Lamp'.

She would spend the rest of her life campaigning for the continued advancement of nursing, greater recognition for the work of nurses and improving conditions of hospitals until her death in 1910 aged 90.

Her legacy set has set the standards for modern nursing. Find out more about Florence Nightingale: https://bit.ly/3R2NoeM

Address

Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea
London
SW34HT

Opening Hours

Tuesday 10am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 10am - 5:30pm
Thursday 10am - 5:30pm
Friday 10am - 5:30pm
Saturday 10am - 5:30pm
Sunday 10am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+44 20 7730 0171

Website

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