Now open

Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria

This major exhibition of rarely seen artworks illuminates shifting attitudes towards soldiers and the Army during Queen Victoria’s reign (1837 – 1901).

Find out more

Coming events at the National Army Museum

Talk

15 Aug 2025

1945: The Reckoning

To mark VJ Day, join author and filmmaker Phil Craig as he explores some of the geopolitical implications of the Allied victory in the Second World War.

Mr Bill Krepper, late of the Pioneer Corps, leaves the demobilisation clothing depot at Olympia, London, as a civilian, wearing his demob suit, July 1945

Talk

22 Aug 2025

Demob Suits: One Uniform for Another?

Join Dr Danielle Sprecher as she examines the production and provision of civilian clothing for British servicemen demobilised after the Second World War.

A disabled British veteran of the Napoleonic Wars, c1812

Talk

29 Aug 2025

Searching for Shadrack Byfield

Join Dr Eamonn O’Keeffe as he explores the War of 1812 through the eyewitness account of a disabled British veteran of the conflict.

A family visiting the Conflict in Europe gallery

An unmissable day out

Take on a mission of discovery and explore the bigger picture of how the Army has shaped our world and lives.

Plan your visit

On This Day: 1945

Story

On 15 August 1945, the British government broadcast news of Japan’s unconditional surrender. This date was declared Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) and people from all walks of life celebrated the official end of the Second World War.

Story

On This Day: August 1945

In August 1945, Britain celebrated Victory over Japan. Yet, with local conflicts erupting across Asia and tremendous problems to tackle in Europe, the Army’s work was far from done.

Story

Victory: May–August 1945

In the summer of 1945, the Second World War came to an end. After Victory in Europe was declared in May, the final surrender of Japan was secured by mid-August. But the British Army’s work was far from over.

Detail from a jacket worn by Captain John Malcolmson VC, c1860

Become a member

Enjoy exclusive and discounted access to events, subscription to 'Muster' magazine, free entry to exhibitions, including members-only curatorial tours, and a 15% discount in the Café and Shop.

Join today