• 10.00am - 5.30pm
  • FREE
  • Chelsea, London
  • 10.00am - 5.30pm
  • FREE
  • Chelsea, London

Rorke’s Drift by Those Who Were There

The defence of Rorke’s Drift, 22-23 January 1879

Join Zulu War expert Ian Knight as he draws on first-hand accounts from the Battle of Rorke’s Drift to offer fresh insights into the experiences of those involved.

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On 22 January 1879, as one of the greatest disasters to befall British troops of the Victorian era was nearing its conclusion at Isandlwana, a very different story was about to unfold a few miles away at the mission station of Rorke’s Drift.

This small outpost was defended by a garrison of around 150 British and Imperial troops. So, when a Zulu force of more than 3,000 warriors turned their attention to it, the odds of the British surviving were staggeringly low. 

The successful defence of Rorke’s Drift has gone down as one of the most heroic actions of all time and has enraptured military history enthusiasts for decades. To mark its anniversary, Ian Knight will delve into first-hand accounts from both sides, offering a glimpse into the personal thoughts and emotions of the participants in one of the most well-known battles in history. 

About Ian Knight

Ian Knight is a leading expert on the Anglo-Zulu War. He has written several books on the subject, including ‘Zulu Rising’, and has appeared in numerous TV documentaries. He was also the editor of the Victorian Military Society journal for many years.

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