An unmissable day out

See, hear and experience the story of the Army

Uncover the bigger picture of how the Army has shaped our world and lives, from its origins to the present day.

Plan your visit

An average visit is 2-3 hours, but our dynamic galleries showcase thousands of objects that can keep you exploring all day.

A one-hour visit

  • T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, played a significant role in the First World War. This made him a legend and cultural icon. See his robes and dagger while exploring the Global Role gallery.
  • Olympic gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes served in the Women’s Royal Army Corps. See her Army running gear in Soldier gallery.
  • Lay your eyes on the skeleton of Napoleon’s horse, Marengo, in the Conflict in Europe gallery.
  • Make sure to pop into the Café for a hot drink before you go.
Father and son looking at objects in Formation gallery

A two-hour visit

  • Get a better sense of the front-line experience by visiting the action theatre in Soldier gallery and immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of battle.
  • Discover a lantern used by Florence Nightingale during her military hospital rounds in the Conflict in Europe gallery.
  • See a panoramic scroll depicting soldiers from across the Empire taking part in King George VI's coronation procession in the Army at Home gallery.
  • Take a break in the Café or make a stop at the Shop before continuing on with your day.

A half-day visit

  • Every Friday lunchtime, you can join an expert for a deep dive into a different aspect of the Army and its history.
  • Learn more about Army organisation and insignia with our ranks and regiments touchscreen in Formation gallery. 
  • See if you have the parade-ground discipline to be a soldier by impressing our virtual drill sergeant in Soldier gallery.
  • Interact with the Siborne Model in the Conflict in Europe gallery and uncover the events that took place at the Battle of Waterloo.

Events and workshops

Field Marshal Živojin Mišić, commander of the Serbian First Army, and Lieutenant General George Milne, commander of the British forces at Salonika
Talk
17 Apr 2026

Britain's Support to Serbia During the First World War

Nick Ilić examines the lesser-known story of the Salonika Front, highlighting the heavy toll of the campaign and the front-line role of British nurses.

A British soldier writing ‘No Way Out’ on a portrait of Adolph Hitler, 1945
Talk
24 Apr 2026

The Long Death of Adolf Hitler

Historian Caroline Sharples investigates the circumstances and expectations surrounding the demise of Adolf Hitler.

The Artists' Rifles in Camp, 1884
Tour
26 Apr 2026

Slow Looking: The Army at Home

Join us during Chelsea Wellness Weekend for a guided tour of our Army at Home gallery, focusing on mindfulness and reflection.

Ten things to do at the Museum

Whether you’re on a solo mission or bringing the troops, experience the story of the Army throughout time and encounter fascinating objects and stories.

Young people looking at front entrance to the museum

Family-friendly activities

Children taking part in a creative workshop at the National Army Museum
Workshop
26 May 2026 – 27 May 2026

Hardtack Biscuit Workshop

Feeling hungry? Join us this May half-term and get stuck into making your own hardtack biscuit to take home and bake!

Children attending a family tour
Tour
28 May 2026 – 29 May 2026

Marching Orders: Scoff the Lot!

Join us on a fun, interactive family tour and travel through time to discover what soldiers have eaten throughout history.

Visitor information

Opening times

Mon: Closed

Tue–Sun: 10.00am–5.30pm

Getting here

Sloane Square is a 10-minute walk

Victoria is a 20-minute walk

170 route stops outside the Museum

Ormonde Gate is the nearest docking station

Battersea Power Station Pier is a 15-minute walk

Map