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.
Parent and child 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

View all events
Silhouetted soldiers standing on an armoured vehicle with a Ukrainian flag
Museum Late
24 Aug 2026 £10.00

Operation Interflex

Join us on Ukrainian Independence Day for an evening of cultural activities and an examination of Operation Interflex, the UK-led multinational training programme for Ukrainian soldiers.

Fraternisation at Malta. Highlander and French Infantry soldier, c1854
Museum Late
3 Sep 2026 £25.00

Foes, Friends, Allies: The Story of the Anglo-French Alliance

Join our experts for an evening of talks discussing the past, present and future of the relationship between Great Britain and France.

'The Sceptic Isle' book cover
Talk
4 Sep 2026 Free

The Sceptic Isle

Professor Steven Casey examines how propaganda, politics and military history shaped British public opinion during the Second World War.

Ten things to do at the Museum

Whether you’re on a solo mission or bringing the troops, we’ve got something for everyone to enjoy.

Challenger tank outside the National Army Museum
Mother and son taking on the giant game challenge
Challenge
11-14 Aug 2026 Free

Game On: First World War

Delve into the fascinating history of the First World War with our giant, interactive board game. Take on our challenge to make it to the end and beat the game.

Family doing some colouring in with crayons
Workshop
18-19 Aug 2026 Free

Family Hub

Come and take a moment to relax in our family hub during the summer holidays. Drop in at any time throughout the day.

Children on a gallery tour
Tour
20-22 Aug 2026 Free

Voices from the Canvas: A Storytelling Tour

Join us on storytelling tour of our special exhibition, uncovering surprising tales and seeing how art can bring the myths and realities of war to life.

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