About National Army Museum
Explore Britain's military heritage through engaging hands-on displays perfect for curious children, with accessible facilities and dining options making this Chelsea museum ideal for family days out.
What's nearby
- Post Office (Royal Hospital Chelsea) next door
- Tesco Express next door
- Chelsea Physic Garden 250m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Paid car park
- ✓Free street
- ✓Paid street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
Payment
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Facilities
Opening hours
- Monday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
A museum with exhibits and stories of the history of the army. Lots of stories presented in audio and video format- very informative. Focus is on the men and women of the army and has plenty of uniform, equipment and weapons used in the different conflicts and zones. I didn't intend to stay for 4 hours but landed up doing so. There is an exhibit about the paintings of war during Queen Victoria's reign that is worth spending some time visiting. Overall, a day well spent. Will return again.
· via Google
The museum is dedicated to the history of the British army and the many wars it has been engaged in since the 17th century. As a consequence there is a stunning and colourful array of uniforms, helmets, firearms, medallions, paintings, prints and ephemera on three floors, all beautifully displayed and supported by information providing fascinating stories of the men and women who fought in (and against!) the British Army. The approachable and friendly museum staff are always happy to provide more information about the objects and explain their historical context. When I was last there a special exhibition of Victorian military paintings entitled 'Myth and Reality' had some spectacular canvases featuring episodes from the many colonial and continental wars fought by the British Army. (It was so good I went twice!). There is also a pleasant and comfortable cafeteria on the first floor.
· via Google
The National Army Museum in Chelsea is a wonderful place for families, and the Play Base soft play is truly the highlight for little ones. The space is clean, safe, and beautifully designed, with climbing areas, imaginative play zones, and plenty of room for toddlers to explore confidently. Staff are friendly and attentive, and the timed sessions keep the environment calm and comfortable. It’s the perfect spot for children to burn energy while having fun, and the museum itself is spacious, welcoming, and easy to enjoy before or after the play session. A great experience for both kids and adults — highly recommended.
· via Google
Great museum, with interesting displays that are well signposted. Lots of historic artifacts, vehicles and paintings. I preferred it to the IWM, which has gone downhill in recent years. It's free to enter too.
· via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Royal Hospital Road, London, SW3 4HT Get directions
- Category
- Museums & Galleries
- Guest rating
- 4.5 / 5 (2,896 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Suggested visit
- 2-3 hours
- Setting
- Indoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- London