Galleries at a glance

Waterloo model

Thanks to Captain William Siborne, you can get a bird’s eye view of the Battle of Waterloo.

Siborne spent months surveying the battlefield and talking to veterans of the campaign to construct this reproduction, which originally featured over 70,000 model soldiers.

Find me in Battle Gallery

Napoleon’s horse

Horses were a crucial help in battle. Marengo carried Napoleon through some of his greatest triumphs and biggest defeats.

While you visit Marengo, take a look at some other artefacts from Napoleon’s life, including a lock of his hair.

Find me in Battle Gallery

Poppies

Poppies have been a symbol of remembrance since 1921, when the British Legion began selling them to raise money for First World War veterans. Today, they are used for a number of different causes.

Discover how poppies have visually and symbolically changed through the years, and make your own contribution to our display.

Find me in Society Gallery

French general’s uniform

This richly decorated uniform belonged to one of the French generals taken prisoner by the Duke of Marlborough following his victory at the Battle of Blenheim (1704).

The Army fought at Blenheim as part of an allied effort to maintain the balance of power in Europe - one of its main strategic roles showcased in our Formation gallery.

Find me in Formation Gallery

Toys

From toy soldiers to battle board games, military-themed toys have been part of every generation’s childhood since the 19th century.

Explore how toys have been inspired and affected by the military. Which ones do you remember from your childhood?

Find me in Society Gallery

Vivienne Westwood cardigan

Fashion is one example of how military symbols have made their way into popular culture. Check out this cardigan by Vivienne Westwood that carries the slogan ‘Make Love. Not War’.

By wearing this cardigan, are people making a fashion statement or a political statement?

Find me in Society Gallery

Prosthetics

As you explore what life is like for soldiers when they return from war, be sure to take a look at the prosthetics on display. They show how medical and technological advances have improved rehabilitation.

How could these pieces of technology help wounded soldiers?

Find me in Soldier Gallery

Immersive action theatre

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and experiences of the front line. Our immersive action theatre lets you get a sense of what life is like on the battlefield as you hear from the individuals who experienced it first-hand.

Find me in Soldier Gallery

Somme tunic

This tunic demonstrates the dangers that come with war. Captain George Johnson of 2nd Battalion, The Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment) wore it on the first day of the Battle of the Somme when he was wounded in the chest, pelvis and right forearm.

Can you see where his sleeve was cut away so his arm could be treated?

Find me in Soldier Gallery