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.
Visitors looking at a large painting in the Atrium

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.

Ten things to do at the Museum

Whether you’re a history lover or someone who just likes to visit museums, we’ve got something for you to enjoy.

Read more
Challenger tank outside the National Army Museum

Events and workshops

'Half a Banana' book cover
Talk
5 Sep 2025

Half a Banana: The Diary of a Gurkha Officer, 1942-45

Join Richard and David Kemmis Betty as they recount their father’s experiences as a British Indian Army officer fighting in Malaya and imprisoned in Singapore during the Second World War.

An officer of light dragoons taking leave of his wife, c1795
Talk
12 Sep 2025

Military Partners: Their Role, Involvement and Impact

Professor Alison Baverstock explores the status and perspectives of military wives and partners, from the Army’s early history through to the present day.

'Cyber Squadron' book cover
Talk
19 Sep 2025

Cyber Squadron: An Official History

Explore the 25-year history of the Land Information Assurance Group, also known as Cyber Squadron, with former member Noel K Hannan.

Kids on the climbing frame in Play Base

Play Base

Enjoy a variety of fun and engaging activities at Play Base, our immersive soft-play experience for children aged 8 or under.
Find out more

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

Plan your route

Google Maps Transport for London
Contour map pattern

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