We were delighted to support Historic England on a new publication that explores the remarkable history of one of London’s most distinctive heritage buildings — the Rotunda in Woolwich.

Commissioned in 1814 by the Prince Regent (later King George IV) and designed by celebrated architect John Nash, the Rotunda was originally constructed as a grand tented ballroom in the gardens of Carlton House, Westminster. It played host to a spectacular celebration marking the Allied victory in the Napoleonic Wars and honouring the Duke of Wellington.

In 1818, the Rotunda was dismantled and transported to Woolwich, where it was reassembled as a permanent structure. Two years later, it opened as the Royal Artillery Museum — one of the first museums of its kind in the world. Located at the Repository Grounds, the Rotunda became part of the Royal Military Repository, established in 1778 to educate officers and soldiers of the Royal Regiment of Artillery. It remained our museum’s home for 180 years.

This new book tells the story of the Rotunda’s extraordinary journey, from royal celebration space to pioneering military museum. It places the building and its surrounding landscape in historical context, highlighting the innovation, popularity and educational significance of the Royal Artillery Museum during its long operation.

Although the Rotunda closed as a museum at the turn of the 20th century, it remains a striking and high-profile building — now sadly on the Heritage at Risk Register. This publication brings renewed focus to its legacy and importance, and makes the case for its continued preservation.

The book was officially launched on 15 July at a special event held in the historic Royal Artillery Mess at Woolwich. The reception and speeches took place in a fittingly atmospheric setting — our thanks to the Commanding Officer of Woolwich Station and the whole team for so generously hosting.

Afterwards, guests walked down to the Rotunda itself for further commentary from the book’s authors and other experts who shared their insights into the building’s past and future. We hope the book will raise much-needed awareness of this extraordinary building and its role in the Royal Artillery’s story — and ultimately inspire a proposal that secures its long-term preservation.

Our heartfelt congratulations to the authors, and to everyone involved in the publication and the event.