Uniform and Kit

Featured

The original bullet proof vest?

During the First World War (1914-18) Private Stephen Palmer was sent an Oxo tin that ended up saving his life.

Read this story

Explore Uniform and Kit stories

Jacket worn by Captain John Malcolmson VC, c1860

Wool, wax and whalebone: Preparing a uniform for display

Our conservation team describes some of the essential work required to get one of the highlights of the Global Role gallery ready for display.

explore this story

Bearskin badge, 2nd Dragoons (Royal Scots Greys), c1900s

Regimental badges

Soldiers’ headwear has always featured some form of insignia demonstrating regimental identity. Here we take a look at some common features of these badge designs, investigating the origins and meaning behind their words and symbols.

explore this story

Soldiers of The 3rd (East Kent) Regiment of Foot (The Buffs) defending the Colours at Albuera, 1811

Save the Colours!

Colours have been the focus of some of the most bitter fighting and magnificent acts of heroism in British Army history. Soldiers often fought to the last to preserve them in battle, and they continue to hold totemic significance for regiments today.

explore this story

Luck and superstition

Chance plays a significant part in deciding a soldier’s fate on the battlefield. Here we look at examples of close shaves and extraordinary escapes, and examine some of the superstitions soldiers draw on for comfort and protection.

explore this story

Pelisse, Zieten Hussars, worn by The Duke of Connaught, 1900s

A uniform fit for a prince

These splendid items of uniform belonging to Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, showcase the flamboyant fashion adopted by hussar units across Europe.

explore this story

Queen Elizabeth II views her old uniform at NAM, 2017

Inspired by a princess’s uniform

In 2018, British heritage brand Hawes & Curtis partnered with the National Army Museum to create a limited edition collection. It was inspired by a military uniform Queen Elizabeth II wore as a young princess.

explore this story

Coatee worn at Waterloo by Brigade-Major Thomas Noel Harris, 1815

Waterloo coatee’s provenance confirmed

In 2015, the National Army Museum was presented with a rare coatee worn by Major Thomas Harris at the Battle of Waterloo. A combination of historical evidence and modern forensic analysis was used to confirm its authenticity.

explore this story

The art of staying alive: McNab's survival kit

An SAS soldier's personal survival kit contains many everyday objects. These can be used in ingenious ways, demonstrating both the adaptability and the resourcefulness of the Special Forces.

explore this story

Lieutenant Colonel Campbell Clark, 104th Regiment of Foot (Bengal Fusiliers), c1877

A lucky escape

A rare tunic from the Indian Mutiny holds a death-defying tale of gruesome gunshots, troublesome timepieces and a remarkable recovery.

explore this story

The original bulletproof vest?

During the First World War, Private Stephen Palmer was sent an Oxo tin that ended up saving his life. Here, we take a closer look at his story, along with some other unconventional life-saving possessions.

explore this story

Army fashion statements

The Army's influence on fashion is not new. Military dress has made its way from conflict to catwalk over and over again.

explore this story

Explore Uniform and Kit events

Primary workshop

7 September 2020 - 20 July 2023

FREE

Body builders

Learn about the possibilities of prosthetic limbs for injured soldiers and get hands-on with our robotic arms.

find out more

A parade of soldiers in helmets, gas mask cases on their chests and holstered revolvers at their sides

Primary (virtual)

1 September 2021 - 20 July 2023

FREE

Head On (virtual)

Discover helmets from across the history of the Army, and explore the materials and properties that make a great helmet.

find out more

Primary workshop

6 September 2021 - 20 July 2023

FREE

Head on

Get hands-on with real helmets from our handling collection, then use different materials to make and test your own.

find out more

Primary workshop

6 September 2021 - 20 July 2023

FREE

Whatever the weather

Soldiers have to be ready for anything! Explore and test materials by designing and building a shelter that will keep a soldier dry.

find out more

Tour At Museum

30 May - 2 June 2023

FREE

Tale of the Golden Thread

Join intrepid explorer Lauren on an incredible journey through some of the goldwork held in our collection in this immersive storytelling experience for all the family.

find out more

Course At Museum

22 - 23 July 2023

£85.00

Embroidery Course: Silk Shading

Master the art of silk shading on this two-day course led by experts from Hand & Lock, London’s premier embroidery house.

find out more

Family attending a Tiny Troopers workshop

Workshop At Museum

30 August 2023

£5.00

Tiny Troopers: Camouflage

Sing, play and create with your little ones at these fun, sensory sessions, perfect for ages 2 to 5.

find out more

Children in Play Base at the National Army Museum

Workshop At Museum

5 September - 19 December 2023

£140.00

Nursery Workshops: Heads Up

Join us in Play Base, the Museum’s own soft play area, as we discover the amazing world of Army headwear. Learn all about the different types of hats and helmets soldiers wear and what they wear them for.

find out more