The Tank Museum
The Tank Museum
5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The Tank Museum brings history to life, with the world’s best collection of tanks and explosive live displays. Our exhibitions tell the story of armoured warfare spanning over 100 years of history. Exploring ten powerful exhibitions, you will come face to face with almost 300 armoured vehicles. This unique collection includes the world’s first ever tank, the feared German Tiger and the modern Challenger 2. There are special events going on throughout the year at The Tank Museum including TANKFEST, Tiger Day and the Vintage Christmas Festival and Craft Fayre, as well as special activity programmes during the School Holiday.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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See what travellers are saying
- Linda RSalisbury, United Kingdom627 contributionsTank you!Great place to keep visiting as they are always changing displays apart from that it is so large you need quite a lot of time to see it all. This is why is you gift aid it you can go back all year for free, a great bargain! Plenty of guides around to explain things if you want them to, otherwise they leave you alone. Great shop , full of so many things, there has got to be something for everyone. A lot of their books are at bargain prices.Visited January 2023Written 25 March 2023
- EnGbudd13 contributionsGreat day out, well worth the money.Absolutely fantastic day out, so many vehicles to see and read about as well as the segregated areas for different time periods/conflicts. Can easily spend half a day or more in here. Gift shop has a huge range of models, kids toys and souvenirs for a fair price. Free parking. Well worth the money.Visited January 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 1 April 2023
- Lucy I22 contributionsGreat Family Day OutReally great family day out - our 6 year olds really enjoyed it as did myself and my husband. There is so much to look at and lots of interactive elements for kids too. We had lunch in the restaurant which was very good. The outdoor display was great, with a very knowledgeable host.Visited April 2023Travelled with familyWritten 7 April 2023
- Helen RChinley, United Kingdom396 contributionsFabulous family day outWhat an incredible day out! I had NO idea that there were so many variations on variations of tanks! Went with husband and 2 boys (13 and 11), having bought a family ticket online. We arrived shortly before 11 and left around 4pm, totally tanked-out! Both boys in tank heaven though! Quite sure we missed a fair amount in the latter halls as just so much to read and to see. Guidebook really good value. Demo good fun; pyrotechnics basic for the grown-ups, but the boys loved it (something quite special about hearing the roar of a tank for the first time)...even arrival at the site was a thrill for them given tanks out driver-training on the road! Cafe a little chaotic, but we were there over the Easter holidays, so probably to be expected (cold cheesy chips are disgusting though!) Cannot recommend this place highly enoughVisited April 2023Written 12 April 2023
- Sophie3 contributionsSo much to see, we'd have to visit again to see it allA wonderful day out, particularly good when it's wet outside. Live tank display was great, despite the rain. There is so much to see we will utilise the annual pass which comes as part of your ticket price to visit again.Visited April 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 April 2023
- Liam LMelbourne, Australia3 contributionsThe best Tank museum in the world.For me who is a fan of tanks this is a must go place, it's one of the biggest museums in England, it has a massive collection of tanks and armoured vehicles. They regularly host events such as Tiger day where they run the last working Tiger 1 from WW2 around their track. but even during a normal day you can ride a personnel carrier round their track I would defiantly recommend this to historians or anyone who is into this stuff.Visited April 2023Written 25 April 2023
- AM1675Cambridge, United Kingdom174 contributionsJourney through the history of tanksVisited the Tank museum in February with my partner who had been before. An enlightening day seeing the evolution of tanks across time and how things have progressed and technology and defence has improved. Made for a great afternoon out, and no doubt we will be back for tankfest in the summer.Visited February 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 28 April 2023
- Calicia LMinneola, Florida50 contributionsA once in a lifetime experienceIf you love tanks, this is the place for you. This has been a dream of our son's for a long time and we took him this year to Tiger Day. If you do any research on this last remaining machine (Tiger 131), you would know that its the only working one in the world. They don't know how long they will be able to keep it running as parts are impossible to get and/or make for it. It only runs twice a year because of that and goes 2km a year. The museum does a great job restoring and displaying the machines and the history behind them. We spent 2 days there with one being on their Premium day and absolutely loved it. They also do not take any public funds. The place is run on the money from their events and visitors. Away from the tanks they have display set up that were so impressive. The 1st world war room blew me away. I think my favorite part was the trenches and feeling like you could have been in a real trench. Food in the cafe was great. I absolutely would recommend going to this museum. The staff was so incredible. Everyone employee/volunteer we met was so helpful and charming. David the curator was so gracious and wonderful to our son. I really can't say enough positive things about this museum. Go check it out for your self.Visited April 2023Written 29 April 2023
- Betty H1 contributionGreat day out so much to see and to learn history whilst enjoying yourselfI have been before and once again had a great day at the Tank Museum. So much to see amazing and was so pleased The Fury Tank on display with all info regarding Uniforms, Photos, Brad Pitt of course details of the Script and more . Also we noticed that a New Video Gaming area being set up looks really cool . Lots for children of all ages to get involved well worth the visit and especially as you get an annual return visit included ... go for it if your in the area .Visited June 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 June 2023
- Ben H1 contributionTankfest 2023Travelled up from Cornwall to visit TankFest having last visited the museum a few years ago. I was worried about parking but there were absolute acres of space across the various fields which was all guided by stewards. The route to the site was a quick 5 minute walk and there were no queues as the gate and security staff were quickly dealing with everyone in a speedy and friendly manner. Firstly I was amazed at the sheer size of the festival site, there was so much to do. Having 2 small kids it was a dream to see the wooden tank playground which was a new addition since my last visit, they must have spent nearly 2 hours there. The outdoor food court had a huge range of options and considering it was a busy day the queues were very reasonable. Once we ventured inside the various exhibits were really impressive, lots of interaction and education for all ages. The kids really liked the gaming area and the indoor soft play aswell. There were plenty of things to do throughout the whole site and at no point did I feel that I was caught up in the crowd. The battle displays in the outdoor arena were impressive (my ears are still ringing). I would definitely recommend and will be returning.Visited June 2023Travelled with familyWritten 26 June 2023
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5.0
5,013 reviews
Excellent
4,099
Very good
761
Average
116
Poor
17
Terrible
20
themaddesthatter
Oxford, England, United Kingdom113 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Whilst the range of tanks and displays are good and informative
The leaflet with the information route is not so good.we struggled to make sense of it as it didn't seem clear at all
No foot prints around the exhibition to show the route either.
It felt like we shifted around and happened across things rather than planned
Felt the restaurant was below average
More like canteen food. Looked as if it had been out In the trays a while
No salads or anything that looked inspired
Very basic sandwiches and no wraps or alterative tasty fillings
Found the self serve hot drinks..then discovered the milk was in a totally different area !! Why ??
Staff seemed bored and tables left uncleared
Eventually someone appeared to take our money at the till No smile or greeting at all
Ladies Toilet was literally just cleaned as I entered..expected to see gleaming sinks etc ..not at all... at the sink areas where left soaking wet the floor soaking wet
Looks like she had just swished a mop round and said done
Sorry..but generally disappointed with certain aspects of the visit
The leaflet with the information route is not so good.we struggled to make sense of it as it didn't seem clear at all
No foot prints around the exhibition to show the route either.
It felt like we shifted around and happened across things rather than planned
Felt the restaurant was below average
More like canteen food. Looked as if it had been out In the trays a while
No salads or anything that looked inspired
Very basic sandwiches and no wraps or alterative tasty fillings
Found the self serve hot drinks..then discovered the milk was in a totally different area !! Why ??
Staff seemed bored and tables left uncleared
Eventually someone appeared to take our money at the till No smile or greeting at all
Ladies Toilet was literally just cleaned as I entered..expected to see gleaming sinks etc ..not at all... at the sink areas where left soaking wet the floor soaking wet
Looks like she had just swished a mop round and said done
Sorry..but generally disappointed with certain aspects of the visit
Written 13 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Figment0337
94 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Visited here today. Excellent museum with lots to see and do for adults and kids. Friendly staff and very reasonably priced. Great activity for a rainy day
Written 1 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Geoffrey W
9 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
This is the perfect place for any tank fan. I never imagined I would see EVERY tank that i made models of oh so long ago. It was moving and inspiring to see the the sad stories of machines designed to do one thing … kill! But they were essential and in a strange way beautiful. I saw so many grandfathers talking to their eager and not so eager children. Very professional and helpful staff. Well worth the drive. Loved it!
Written 31 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joseph A
5 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
We had an enjoyable day out at the tank museum. It is laid out well and most importantly, was great for all ages. I am concerned however about sustainability. The restaurant was using single use cups for the soft drink dispenser with PLASTIC straws (See last pic). I can’t remember the last I used a plastic straw. Also, the coffee cups were paper, but the lids were single use plastic. This needs to change ASAP. Apart from that, a great day out.
Written 29 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thomas H
Marlborough, UK16 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Excellent day out with 4 year old, 8 year old and 73 year old! So much to see and do to keep everyone happy. Very friendly and helpful staff. Nice restaurant or loads of picnic tables.
Written 24 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Doc22407
Middlesbrough, UK214 contributions
Sept 2023 • Family
I've wanted to visit here for quite a few years now and luckily we were staying nearby during our recent holiday. It's well worth the effort and much better than the tank museum I previously went to in France, a spectacular array of tanks pretty comprehensively covering their entire history from ww1 to the present. Great information on offer and I loved the way the exhibits were arranged.
Written 14 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ghy
136 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
My wife is a bit older than me and remembers Shermans being loaded onto ships pre Operation Overlord landings in Normandy so has always wanted to go to Bovington. It clashed however with a podiatrist appointment at Poole hospital so I went on my own.
Brilliant museum and as the name suggests lots of tanks.
Well signed and very friendly staff offering advice but not being in your/my face.
Big canteen area and good value food .
Great accessibility for less mobile so I can bring the boss next time and my ticket for this time can be reused by me .
Great value that .
Also bought a flask and a book about Panther tanks which looks great .
Thankyou for your service
Brilliant museum and as the name suggests lots of tanks.
Well signed and very friendly staff offering advice but not being in your/my face.
Big canteen area and good value food .
Great accessibility for less mobile so I can bring the boss next time and my ticket for this time can be reused by me .
Great value that .
Also bought a flask and a book about Panther tanks which looks great .
Thankyou for your service
Written 12 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David H
Shepreth, UK56 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
Absolutely fantastic museum. If you love tanks and military hardware this is your place. My wife and I spent almost 7.5 hours walking around the museum and had a really great, if exhausting day.
I volunteer at IWM Duxford and Duxford is mega expensive compared to Bovington in all areas, admission, food, gifts etc. Your ticket is also active for a year for a return visit which is tremendous value.
I cannot recommend Bovington highly enough.
I volunteer at IWM Duxford and Duxford is mega expensive compared to Bovington in all areas, admission, food, gifts etc. Your ticket is also active for a year for a return visit which is tremendous value.
I cannot recommend Bovington highly enough.
Written 5 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GreenGod L
Durham, UK76 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Visited here for sons open family day as he's based at Bovington Barracks. Absolutely massive amount of different tanks from WW1 to present day. Very interesting place.
Written 3 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bjornjens
Norway15 contributions
Sept 2023 • Solo
I have had Bovington on my bucketlist for a while and finally got to go!
First of all, the place is vast. I made the mistake of kinda "ignoring" the screen which came with a recommendation of how to go about the place, and I actually thought I was mostly done once I had gone through the main hall. Boy was I wrong.
There is probably more vehicles and tanks in the other areas, although the most famous ones are indeed in the main hall.
I came with the train to Wool, and got a taxi to Bovington. Arrived some 20 minutes past 10AM and had planned to get the train back at 4:45PM.
If I had gone through the place and studied the stories, the information plaques and so on as minutely in all the halls, I could probably have been there until it closed.
Did take a tour of everything though, although a bit more speedily, and found the story/tour of the cavalry horses especially moving. Had visited the memorial site to "Animals in War" in Hyde park before also as I have a interest in the subject. I wish I had got to go through the WW1 and WW2 story halls as thoroughly as well, but I guess now I have a reason to go back another time. Perhaps also to experience Tiger Day!
I get the impression that the Tank Museum take their task very seriously in retelling the tank and cavalry history overall.
Enjoyed my stay!
PS: You may enter the place as a Tiger I (131) fan, but I believe you're going to leave the place as a Tiger II and/or Panther fan if you get to see both of them up close!
First of all, the place is vast. I made the mistake of kinda "ignoring" the screen which came with a recommendation of how to go about the place, and I actually thought I was mostly done once I had gone through the main hall. Boy was I wrong.
There is probably more vehicles and tanks in the other areas, although the most famous ones are indeed in the main hall.
I came with the train to Wool, and got a taxi to Bovington. Arrived some 20 minutes past 10AM and had planned to get the train back at 4:45PM.
If I had gone through the place and studied the stories, the information plaques and so on as minutely in all the halls, I could probably have been there until it closed.
Did take a tour of everything though, although a bit more speedily, and found the story/tour of the cavalry horses especially moving. Had visited the memorial site to "Animals in War" in Hyde park before also as I have a interest in the subject. I wish I had got to go through the WW1 and WW2 story halls as thoroughly as well, but I guess now I have a reason to go back another time. Perhaps also to experience Tiger Day!
I get the impression that the Tank Museum take their task very seriously in retelling the tank and cavalry history overall.
Enjoyed my stay!
PS: You may enter the place as a Tiger I (131) fan, but I believe you're going to leave the place as a Tiger II and/or Panther fan if you get to see both of them up close!
Written 2 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael E
Plymouth, UK
Are dogs welcome
Little Jenny
London, UK533 contributions
You could check the website. The museums curator has a dog but we did not see any in the museum on our visit.
How much is it to get in
Davidjosephfour
Bradley Stoke, UK101 contributions
At present I believe it is not open but do not take my word on that. The price I forget but I found it very good value and the ticket allows return visit for the year.
Lugtkasteel
5 contributions
wij willen in februari naar het museum. Is dit een goede periode en wat zij de beste reis opties vanuit Amsterdam en wat zijn de beste locaties voor overnachting?
Peter L
38 contributions
Kijk op the trainline
Voor goedkopere treinkaartjes
De B&B is Frome Dale aan de E Burton road
MSDE
Sydney, Australia49 contributions
Hi we are planning to visit the tank museum in December and was wondering if anyone has advice on how to get there from London. We were thinking to hire a car from Heathrow airport or catch the train as there is 4 of us. If we hire a car we may also visit the national Motor Museum , Beaulieu. any suggestions most welcome.
Florin V
Bucharest, Romania33 contributions
I personally took a train, but most people come by car. It's a 2 hours drive or a 3 hours train ride. For the train, you will need to get a bus or a 30 mins taxi ride to the nearest train station on the London - Southampton line.
Also note that from the train station there is a 30 minutes walk to the museum. You can also order a taxi.
Train ticket costs about 55 GBP per person, so if it's 4 of you, it might make more sense to rent a car.
Hi anyone got 5 tickets for sunday tank fest day for sale please.
keep-ramblin
Stoke-on-Trent, UK166 contributions
No Sorry x
Victor S
Telde, Spain17 contributions
Buenas noches,me gustaria saber la mejor fecha para visitarlo y como llegar desde
Gran Canaria,muchas gracias
Hi, I would like to visit the tank Museum both in a static mode and during Tankfest next year. How many days in avance do they start preparing for tankfest and stop being a nice and quiet museum ?
Lucy M
Dorchester, UK4 contributions
The set-up for TANKFEST starts the Monday before but most of this is outside. Based on last year's figures, the Museum itself is generally fairly quiet until the Thursday. Similarly, after TANKFEST the Museum is busier than usual on the Monday, but is quieter the rest of the week.
LBNV
Las Vegas, NV
I read that it's possible to take the train from London to Wool, then take a taxi from the train station to the Tank Museum. I also read that someone reserved a taxi through Garrison Cars. I'm unfamiliar with public transportation at that locale as I've not traveled abroad in many years. I know, for example, in big cities in US, taxis are readily available at airports and train stations. Is this true for the station at Wool? Is a reservation needed for a taxi? Also, am curious about when we're ready to leave the Museum and go back to the train station...what procedure for that?
Lucy M
Dorchester, UK4 contributions
Good morning, It's a small station in a rural area so I would recommend booking in advance. Similarly, when you are planning to leave, I would book in advance when you are thinking of leaving. It's worth noting that the Museum is only a 20-30 minute walk from the station.
Ryan E
Essex, UK48 contributions
Are there benches or somewhere to sit occasionally as you go around The Tank Museum ? I can't stand for longer than 30 minutes at a time but would love to go.
Mortons7
Hurstpierpoint, UK109 contributions
Yes they do have some seats on the way round. Considering how big the place is they could possibly do with a few more though
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