Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum
Explore centuries of military history, from Napoleonic campaigns to modern conflicts, with stunning dioramas and medal collections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of military history, from Napoleonic campaigns to modern conflicts, with stunning dioramas and medal collections.
"A gem of a museum, surprisingly captivating for all ages and packed with history."
Allocate ample time
You'll need 2-3 hours to explore fully, especially the Waterloo diorama! :clock1:
Engaging for kids
Surprisingly captivating for children, even those with short attention spans. :child: :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Battle of Waterloo Diorama
Waterloo Room
An astonishingly detailed diorama featuring 20,000 soldiers and 9,000 horses, with a narrated light show.
Victoria Cross Collection
Medals Display
See an impressive collection of 59 Victoria Crosses, the highest military decoration for valor.
Regimental Court Dress of Wellington
Waterloo Room
View the personal court dress of the Duke of Wellington, a significant artifact from the Napoleonic era.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to The Rifles Museum
Accessibility and Family Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate ample time
You'll need 2-3 hours to explore fully, especially the Waterloo diorama! :clock1:
Engaging for kids
Surprisingly captivating for children, even those with short attention spans. :child: :iphone:
Don't miss the diorama show
The narrated light show every 10 mins brings the Waterloo diorama to life. :movie_camera:
Friendly staff
The museum staff are very welcoming and informative, enhancing the visit. :smiley:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate ample time
You'll need 2-3 hours to explore fully, especially the Waterloo diorama! :clock1:
Engaging for kids
Surprisingly captivating for children, even those with short attention spans. :child: :iphone:
Don't miss the diorama show
The narrated light show every 10 mins brings the Waterloo diorama to life. :movie_camera:
Friendly staff
The museum staff are very welcoming and informative, enhancing the visit. :smiley:
Support the museum
Consider supporting this gem of a museum and its rich history. :heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum as a hidden gem, offering a surprisingly engaging and comprehensive historical experience. The Waterloo diorama is a standout, and the museum is noted for its accessibility and friendly staff, making it enjoyable for all ages. While the sheer volume of information can be extensive, the interactive elements and detailed displays ensure a memorable visit.
"The Riflemans Museum, located in the Peninsula Barracks in Winchester, is a fantastic little museum spread across two floors, complete with a stair lift for accessibility. We were amazed by the vast number of exhibits on display. The staff were very welcoming and informative, enhancing our experience. A standout feature is the extensive display dedicated to the Battle of Waterloo. This enormous display case, which is truly astonishing in scale, features approximately 20,000 soldiers and 9,000 horses. While the overall presentation is impressive, a closer look reveals countless intricate details and smaller scenes within the larger tableau. Additionally, a narrated light show occurs every 10 minutes, providing valuable insights into the diorama and the battle it represents. If you're a fan of the Sharpe novels, this museum is a must-visit. There is also a stunning collection of medals, which serve as a remarkable testament to military history. As someone joked, “blokes don’t do bling.” Overall, the museum is fascinating and set in a beautiful area. I would recommend it to anyone visiting Winchester, and it’s definitely worth the trip for anyone with an interest in the Napoleonic era."
wayne roff
"This is a gem of a museum. Lots to see and learn from for all ages of the family. I was very pleasantly surprised at how much my seven year old (who has a short attention span at the best of times) enjoyed it and how interested he was in the displays. The lady on reception was lovely and very welcoming. Highly recommended and will be back again soon hopefully."
Mark Westwood
"We drove down to visit today, I love a regimental museum and this one was great. It's interesting to see the history and glory of it all. So many conflicts fought, so many deaths, so many medals issued; 59 Victoria Crosses here amongst the many others. This is well worth your time, just watching the battle of Waterloo diarama explain the battle was outstanding. I recommend attending and supporting all this history. The staff were very friendly and there is a lot of information spread across two floors. There is a stair lift to give access to the first floor, for those that need it."
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Peninsula Barracks, Winchester, within easy walking distance of the city centre. It's adjacent to Winchester's Great Hall. 
While specific parking details for the barracks might vary, Winchester city centre has several public car parks. It's advisable to check local parking information for Winchester before your visit.
Yes, The Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum is one of six military museums located in Winchester's Peninsula Barracks complex, making it ideal for a day of historical exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official museum website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees are typically reasonable, and it's recommended to check the museum's official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special events or talks, can be a good idea to secure your spot. Check the museum's website for booking options.
Yes, the museum is accessible with a stairlift available to reach the first floor, ensuring visitors can explore all exhibits comfortably. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the massive Battle of Waterloo diorama with a narrated light show, a significant collection of Victoria Cross medals, and Wellington's regimental court dress.
Absolutely! The museum is very engaging for all ages, with interactive displays that capture the interest of children, even those with short attention spans.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly, especially if you want to take your time with the detailed dioramas and exhibits.
The museum frequently hosts evening talks and events on various military history topics, such as 'The Red Fox of Colditz' or 'The Ticket Collector from Belarus'. Check their schedule for upcoming events.
The museum covers the history of the Royal Green Jackets and The Rifles regiments over two and a half centuries, from the Peninsular Wars through to 2007, including WWI and WWII.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for any signage or ask a member of staff upon arrival. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted.
The incredibly detailed Battle of Waterloo diorama is a major highlight for photographers. The collection of medals, including Victoria Crosses, also offers compelling close-up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key highlights for families include the spectacular Battle of Waterloo diorama, which is visually impressive and accompanied by an engaging light show. The museum also has a stairlift, making it accessible for families with strollers or those who need assistance navigating between floors. It's a great way to introduce children to military history in a fun and accessible way.
💂 History Buffs & Military Enthusiasts
You'll find extensive exhibits on WWI and WWII, alongside uniforms, weapons, paintings, and an impressive collection of medals, including 59 Victoria Crosses. The Battle of Waterloo diorama is a particular draw, offering an unparalleled level of detail and historical context. Furthermore, the museum frequently hosts special evening talks by experts on various military topics, providing in-depth knowledge and unique perspectives.
+1📚 Fans of Historical Fiction (e.g., Sharpe)
You'll find artifacts and exhibits that bring the world of riflemen and the conflicts they fought in to life. Seeing Wellington's regimental court dress and understanding the context of the Napoleonic Wars through the museum's displays offers a richer appreciation for the settings and characters of your favorite historical fiction.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Battle of Waterloo Diorama: A Miniature Masterpiece
To further enhance the visitor experience, the diorama is accompanied by a narrated light show that plays every 10 minutes. This show provides crucial context and insights into the battle's progression and key moments, bringing the miniature battlefield to life. It's a highly recommended part of the visit, especially for those interested in Napoleonic history or fans of historical fiction like the Sharpe novels.
The sheer artistry and historical accuracy of this diorama make it a standout exhibit, offering a unique perspective on one of history's most pivotal battles. It’s a testament to the dedication of those who created and maintain it, providing an educational and visually stunning experience.
A Legacy of Valor: Medals and Victoria Crosses
These medals represent countless acts of courage across various conflicts, from the Napoleonic Wars to more recent engagements. The display offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to reflect on the personal stories behind these prestigious honors. The sheer volume and significance of the medals underscore the regiments' long and distinguished service.
While some might jokingly remark that 'blokes don't do bling,' the collection of medals at The Rifles Museum is far more than mere adornment; it's a powerful testament to military history and the extraordinary valor displayed by individuals throughout the regiments' existence.
Beyond the Battlefield: Special Talks and Events
+1Past talks have covered fascinating subjects such as 'The Red Fox of Colditz,' detailing the exploits of a prolific WW2 escaper, and 'The Ticket Collector from Belarus,' which explored a significant war crimes trial. These events offer a unique opportunity to gain deeper insights into military history from experts and to engage with the community.
+1Attending one of these talks can significantly enrich a visit, providing context and stories that go beyond the static displays. It's advisable to check the museum's schedule for upcoming events and consider booking in advance, as these popular sessions can fill up quickly.
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