The Guards Museum
About This Museum
People come to the Guards Museum not just for the polished boots and bearskin hats, but to understand the living, breathing history behind the iconic soldiers they see at Buckingham Palace. You can easily spend an hour lost in the personal stories, from letters written on the front lines to surprisingly intricate uniforms worn by drummer boys over the centuries. The highlight for me was joining one of their scheduled talks, where a retired guardsman shared anecdotes that truly brought the displays to life. It’s a compact but powerful tribute that goes far beyond the ceremony.
Collection Highlights
Look for the Victoria Cross medals awarded for incredible bravery, and don't miss the uniform of a WWI-era 'Tommy,' complete with its battle scars. The exhibit explaining the subtle differences between the five Foot Guards regiments by their tunic buttons is both fascinating and a great party trick to learn.
Visitor Information
It's tucked away within the Wellington Barracks, so keep an eye out for the entrance on Birdcage Walk. Check their website for the day's tour times—hearing from a guide is well worth planning your visit around.
Architecture & Building
The museum is housed in a functional, no-frills brick building that feels authentically part of the working barracks, which honestly adds to its charm.
Contact & Location
Address: Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk, Victoria, London, Greater London, England, SW1E 6AY, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 20 7414 3430
Website: Visit Website
