I can’t fault the facilities at the National Army Museum - their galleries are immaculately laid out in an airy, bright and inviting building.
The museum is very closely affiliated with the army and I felt a little cynical about its purpose - rest assured you won’t be confronted with many difficult questions about their past activities.
Located in Lambeth
At the risk of stating the obvious, the National Army Museum is about the army while the Imperial War Museum is about war.
As such I found the IWM to be a more sombre experience, you won’t see as many displays of colourful uniforms but will learn more about the depressing realities of conflict.
The IWM is also larger and focuses only on the 20th Century and onwards, allowing them to cover their subjects in more depth.
Hear about General Sir Alan Cunningham’s dramatic WWII experiences, from leading victorious troops in East Africa to his challenges as High Commissioner in Palestine.
Dr Michael Somerville examines how the British Army incorporated lessons from the American Civil War into their tactical reforms and advancements.
Georgina Brewis and Daniel Laqua examine how the First World War reshaped university demographics and student life, highlighting increased social diversity and the rise in ex-servicemen students.
John Rubinstein examines the ripple effects of a single cannonball in 1759, linking a French revolutionary’s fate with a British general’s downfall.
James Holland discusses the intense World War II battles at Monte Cassino using first-hand accounts from soldiers and contemporary sources.
David Willey discusses the significant role of tanks in the 1917 Battle of Cambrai, highlighting its impacts on warfare and military tactics.
Learn about the Jewish Brigade’s role in WWII, from its valiant combats in Italy to its crucial help in rescuing Holocaust survivors.
Paul Le Messurier talks about Major General John Le Marchant’s rise, uncovering his impact on military training and swordsmanship, plus his role in founding a notable military academy.
Dr Jake Gasson discusses the psychological strain of intense boredom experienced by British soldiers in Salonika during WWI, examining their morale and endurance.
