museum
Sir Robert McAlpine and Sons Limited., 1970
Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HT
Part of the Chelsea Heritage Quarter, the National Army Museum covers the British Army’s role from the Civil Wars to the modern day. We engage and inspire with the stories of our soldiers and how their service shapes our world; past, present and future. Founded by Royal Charter in 1960, the Museum has been on the Chelsea site since 1970. Come and find out who we are and why we are here! Visit the museum galleries and special exhibitions on Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria and, from 16 September, Beyond Burma: Forgotten Armies. All are free to visit throughout the festival period.
Sloane Square
Victoria
170
Stairs to lower ground floor; wheelchair access available with prior notice
Quiet, reflective atmosphere
The National Army Museum started life in a converted riding school building at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst. Founded by Royal Charter in 1960, it soon outgrew its original home, and role as a teaching resource for the young officer cadets, and became a place of remembrance for veterans and home to their memories and army 'souvenirs'. Field Marshal Sir Gerald Templer, former Chief of the Imperial General Staff, took up the task of finding a new home for the Museum, and picked the bombed site of the Royal Hospital Chelsea's infirmary.
Come and find out more about the Museum displays at Sandhurst during the 1950s and 1960s, see photographs of the construction, and learn about how the Museum has developed during its 65 year history.
The National Army Museum is now part of the Chelsea Heritage Quarter - check out what the other CHQ partners, Royal Hospital Chelsea and Chelsea Physic Garden, have to offer for Open House. As well as the Archive Show and Tell talks, Open House visitors are welcome to drop in to the museum galleries and special exhibitions on Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria and Beyond Burma: Forgotten Armies. All are free to visit throughout the festival.
Drop in / Guided tour
health, museum, historical house, military, mixed use
Part of the Chelsea Heritage Quarter, the Royal Hospital Chelsea has housed the iconic Chelsea Pensioners since 1692. Join a tour led by a Chelsea Pensioner to explore its rich history and architecture, from Wren’s design to Soane’s legacy. Visit the new Soane Stable Yard, opened in 2024, and its interactive exhibition for deeper insight. Get free access to the historic Soane Stable Yard, museum and café throughout the Festival.
Sir John Vanbrugh, Nicholas Hawksmoor, Sir Christopher Wren, Sir John Soane, Robert Adam, Samuel Wyatt, 1682
