Our aim is to bring together military, veteran and civilian communities to enjoy, learn from and get involved in artillery heritage by creating a dynamic, accessible and sustainable new museum at Larkhill, the home of The Gunners.
Our museum started life in Woolwich, where for many years it was a focus for Royal Artillery training and Regimental life. Today, the Royal Artillery’s home is Larkhill in Wiltshire, where Gunners have trained since the late 19th century. Over half the serving Regiment is based here now, alongside Regimental Headquarters and the Royal School of Artillery. This is where the future Royal Artillery Museum should be, too.
We have signed an agreement with the Army that (subject to planning permission) will allow the new museum to be built on land close to Larkhill Camp, at the edge of Salisbury Plain Training Area. The new museum will be placed firmly at the heart of its communities, whether local or distant, in a place where 125 years of artillery training has shaped lives, communities and a remarkable landscape.
The new museum will enable us to significantly increase access to our collection and transform its care and conservation. We will reach new audiences, and appeal to visitors of all ages and backgrounds, with engaging exhibitions, hands-on activities and diverse stories of technology, innovation, service and bravery. It will be a centre for school visits, family learning, community projects, events and volunteering.
An environmentally sustainable building will be simple in design, much like the military buildings that that already characterise Larkhill and its surroundings: in other words, a Gunshed. The central gallery will be closely packed with amazing artillery pieces and military vehicles, all fully accessible to visitors.
A history gallery will provide an introduction to our collection and the stories it tells, while a special exhibition gallery will allow for regularly changing themed displays. There will also be stores for smaller artefacts, a conservation workshop and an archive research centre, along with a café and gift shop.
Outdoor space for reflection, play and participation will connect the museum to its unique military surroundings. There will be additional café seating and a children’s play area, freely accessible without a museum ticket, as well as flexible spaces for demonstrations, displays and small events.
This will be the start of an exciting and creative future for Gunner heritage.