• 10.00am - 5.30pm
  • FREE
  • Chelsea, London
National Army Museum
  • 10.00am - 5.30pm
  • FREE
  • Chelsea, London

Army at Home gallery

Ceremonial display case in the Army at Home gallery

Explore the Army’s role in the making of Britain. Discover how it has protected us during national crises, and learn how its home service has shaped our identities, communities and landscapes.

About the gallery

This gallery explores the Army's home service from the 1600s to the present day. It begins by examining its role in the conflicts and political turmoil that created modern Britain, before outlining its ongoing efforts to defend against external and internal threats.

It showcases how soldiers have cultivated a national identity through shared service, ceremonial duties and acts of remembrance. It also explores the Army's impact on local communities, from building fortifications and barracks in our towns and countryside, to supporting our public services in times of emergency.

  • Duration: Around 40 minutes
  • Access: Via main lift
  • Location: Floor 3
Plan your visit
Helmet of the East Riding of Yorkshire Imperial Yeomanry

Army at Home tells the story of the men and women who have served and protected us through human conflicts and natural disasters.

In times of war, many of those who guarded the nation's shores were part-time. By taking on home duties, they allowed full-time soldiers to focus on their European and global commitments. The gallery highlights this long tradition of 'citizen soldiers' in Britain.

It also focuses on the rich ceremonial heritage of the Army, and its role in preserving the public rituals that continue to bind us together.

State Trumpeter's uniform
Detail from ceremonial scroll
Musketeer's bandolier

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"First time @NAM_London today. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Thought the presentation & interpretation made the subject accessible..."