There are many museums all around the world, but one of the most fascinating ones is the British Tank Museum. The museum is dedicated entirely to the history of tanks and armored vehicles used in the British Army since their inception. The museum is located in Bovington, Dorset, England, and is the most extensive collection of its kind in the world.
The History of the Museum
The British Tank Museum has a rich history, dating back to World War I when the first tanks arrived on the battlefield. Many of these early tanks were manufactured in Bovington, and after the war, many tanks were stored in the area. By the 1970s, the vehicles had fallen into disrepair, and the War Office decided to auction them off. A group of tank enthusiasts decided to purchase the vehicles and start a museum.
Since then, the museum has undergone several expansions, and it houses over 300 vehicles, including tanks, armored cars, and other military vehicles. The museum also features several exhibitions that chronicle the history of tank warfare, including the First World War, the Second World War, and the Cold War.
The Exhibitions
The museum has several exhibitions that cover different periods in tank history. One of the most popular exhibits tells the story of the development of the tank during World War I. Visitors can see the first British tanks and learn about their use on the battlefield.
The Second World War exhibits are also extensive and include displays on the D-Day landings, the North Africa campaign, and the war in Europe. Visitors can see tanks from all sides of the conflict, including German tanks such as the Panther and the Tiger.
The Cold War exhibition charts the development of tanks after the Second World War and shows how they were used during the conflicts of the 20th century, including the Korean War and the Falklands War. Visitors can see modern tanks such as the Challenger 2 and learn about their capabilities.
The Tanks
The tank collection at the British Tank Museum is the most extensive in the world. Visitors can see all kinds of tanks, including early prototypes, British tanks, and vehicles from other countries. Some of the most popular tanks on display include the Churchill, the Chieftain, and the Centurion.
The museum also has a tank-driving experience, where visitors can get behind the wheel of a tank and learn how to drive it. The experience is incredibly popular, and booking in advance is essential.
Conclusion
The British Tank Museum is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in tanks, military history, or engineering. The museum’s vast collection of vehicles is impressive, and the exhibitions are informative and engaging. The tank-driving experience is also a must-do for any visitors to the museum. Overall, the British Tank Museum is one of the top museums in the UK and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in tanks and military history.
- Opening hours: The museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Admission prices: Adults £14.00, Children (aged 5-16) £8.00, Family ticket (2 adults + 3 children) £38.00.
- How to get there: The museum is located in Bovington, Dorset, England. By car, it is just off the A35. By train, the nearest station is Wool, which is about 4 miles from the museum.