Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

Museum in Gloucester

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Chris Ryland

The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum is one of the top attractions in Gloucester, celebrating the remarkable story of the Gloucestershire Regiment and the Royal Gloucestershire Hussars. Set within Gloucester Historic Docks, this engaging museum brings to life more than three centuries of military history, from the American Revolutionary War to Dunkirk and the Korean War. Its immersive exhibits, personal accounts, and rich collections make it one of the best places to visit in Gloucester for history lovers and families alike.

It is often visited on walking tours of Gloucester, and its blend of interactive galleries, archival material, and atmospheric dockside setting appeals to visitors of all ages. Whether you're researching family military links or exploring with children, the museum offers a rewarding and informative experience.

History and Significance of the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
Things to See and Do in the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
How to Get to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
Practical Tips on Visiting the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
Where to Stay close to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
Is the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
Nearby Attractions to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

History and Significance of the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

The museum tells the story of the Gloucestershire Regiment-affectionately known as the “Glosters”-and the Royal Gloucestershire Hussars from 1694 to the present day. These regiments witnessed some of the most significant events in British and world history, serving in battles across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.

The collection highlights their extraordinary contributions, including their role in the American Revolutionary War, their stand against Napoleon, the defence of Dunkirk in 1940, and their involvement in the Korean War, where they earned global admiration for their bravery. The museum preserves uniforms, medals, letters, and objects collected by soldiers and their families, forming a deeply personal record of service and sacrifice.

Through carefully curated displays, the museum honours the courage, humour, and traditions of the soldiers who served Gloucestershire for generations.

Things to See and Do in the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

Visitors can explore interactive displays, touchscreens, and hands-on activities that make the regiment’s history accessible and engaging. Contemporary film footage, sound recordings, and recreated environments help bring past conflicts to life.

Highlights include:

The magnificent medal collection showcasing gallantry awards and campaign medals.
Uniforms from different eras, beautifully preserved and richly decorated.
Weapons and battlefield equipment used across centuries.
Souvenirs and personal items brought back by soldiers from across the world.
Child-friendly quizzes and trails that encourage younger visitors to get involved.
Archives and research facilities for those exploring genealogy or military history.

The museum offers an intimate and emotional perspective on the lives of soldiers and their families, revealing not only the hardships of war but also the camaraderie, humour, and resilience that defined regimental life.

How to Get to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

The museum is located at Gloucester Historic Docks, just a short walk from Gloucester Station, which is served by direct trains from London Paddington, Bristol, Cardiff, Birmingham, Cheltenham, and Worcester. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travellers arriving from abroad can fly into Bristol Airport, then continue by rail or coach to Gloucester via Bristol Temple Meads. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Gloucester on Booking.com.

Those driving will find easy access via the M5 and A40. Several car parks serve Gloucester Quays and the docks area, making it convenient for visitors to park and walk to the museum.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

Suggested tips: Allow time to explore the medal collection and watch the film clips; they give powerful context.
Best time to visit: Late morning or early afternoon for the fullest experience.
Entrance fee in Euros: Typically around €7-€10 for adults; concessions available.
Opening hours: Usually open daily except Mondays; check seasonal updates.
Official website: Visit the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum website for details.
How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours.
Accessibility: Fully accessible, with lifts and clear walkways.
Facilities: Gift shop, restrooms, and cafés nearby at Gloucester Quays.
Photography tip: Capture the detail of the uniforms and medal displays.
Guided tours: Available for groups by arrangement.
Nearby food options: Many dining choices in Gloucester Quays and around the docks.

Where to Stay close to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

You’ll find excellent accommodation within walking distance of the docks. For modern convenience, Premier Inn Gloucester City Centre is ideal. For boutique style near both the museum and the cathedral, try The Locking Castle Hotel. For a historic stay in the heart of the city, consider The New Inn.

Is the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum Worth Visiting?

Yes. The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum is one of the must-see places in Gloucester, offering a compelling blend of personal stories, military history, interactive exhibits, and powerful displays of courage and service. It appeals to families, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the county's proud regimental past.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (344)

Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum at Custom House the Docks, 31 Commercial Rd, Gloucester GL1 2HE, UK, traces the lives and conflicts of Gloucestershire soldiers back to the 17th century, with varied displays across two floors showcasing information boards, artifacts, medals, uniforms and staged scenes; visitors note it's detailed and inspiring, offers hands-on trial of some kit and uniforms, has disabled access and a gift shop with regimental items (with concessions for serving personnel and veterans), and most people allow around a couple of hours to do the museum justice.

Mark C

a month ago

"We found this by chance whilst walking around the Quays. It was open on Remembrance Sunday which made it even more special. An amazing tribute to thepeople who have served in this Military Regiment for four hundred years and their rich history up until now. The museum is over two floors and there is access for disabled people. The gift shop contains many regimental items and toys for kids. Reasonably priced especially for current serving and veterans who get a discount. Please visit if you are here...."

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Mark Poley

a year ago

"Superb regimental museum covering the long history of the Gloucester Regiments from the 1700s to today's combined Rifles Regiment. So many historicbattles and distinguished engagements. Truly inspiring. Good varied displays with information boards, artifacts, medals, pictures and staged scenes. Allow a couple of hours to do it justice. Well worth a visit. 😎👍👍👍👍..."

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Mark Evans

7 months ago

"The museum tells the story of a Great British Regiment, that my oldest Brother served in The Gloucestershire Regiment. He served in Northern Irelandin 1978. Sadly 10 years ago My John passed away. I will enjoy Visiting this very special museum. Thank you...."

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FAQs for Visiting the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

Yes, with quizzes and interactive exhibits designed for younger visitors.

Yes, the museum has archives and resources for researchers.

Generally yes, except where signs indicate otherwise.

Many exhibits include touchscreens and hands-on elements.

Yes, with lift access and step-free entry.

Around 1-1.5 hours.

Yes, it covers regimental history up to recent decades.

Yes, the museum sits within Gloucester Historic Docks.

Yes, it pairs perfectly with the Quays, the Waterways Museum, and the Docks.

Yes, the museum is within walking distance of Gloucester Station.

Nearby Attractions to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

Gloucester Historic Docks: Victorian warehouses, boats, museums, and waterfront walks.
Gloucester Cathedral: An iconic medieval landmark with extraordinary cloisters.
Gloucester Waterways Museum: Fun, interactive exhibits on Britain's canal history.
Museum of Gloucester: Archaeology, art, and Roman heritage displays.
Robinswood Hill Country Park: Nature trails and views across the Severn Valley.

The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gloucester!

Moira & Andy

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