Local museums, collections and archives

Aldershot Military Museum

Queens Avenue, Aldershot, GU11 2LG

Step into history at the Aldershot Military Museum, housed in the only surviving brick-built barrack blocks in Aldershot. This fascinating site brings to life the daily experiences of soldiers and civilians from 1854 to the present day.

What to see and do

• Explore original Victorian barrack buildings and immersive galleries
• Admire tanks, armoured vehicles, and military memorabilia
• Challenge yourself on the Second World War inspired assault course
• Get hands-on with interactive exhibits and activity trails
• Browse the museum shop for military-themed gifts and souvenir
• Relax in the café or enjoy a picnic in the community garden

Learn about Aldershot’s role as the “Home of the British Army” and uncover the rich heritage of nearby towns Farnborough and Cove through vibrant displays, including the Cody Gallery, which celebrates Britain’s first powered flight.

The museum hosts a year-round programme of family-friendly events, workshops, and special exhibitions—perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Whether you're a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply looking for a great day out, Aldershot Military Museum offers a compelling journey through time.

For opening times, tickets and further information, visit the Aldershot Military Museum website.

 

Aviation collection - Farnborough Library

Farnborough Library, Pinehurst Centre, Pinehurst, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 7JU

Explore Hampshire Libraries’ specialist aviation collection at Farnborough Library, located in the heart of the birthplace of British aviation. This extensive collection celebrates the history, technology and people behind flight, making it an invaluable resource for enthusiasts, researchers and local history seekers alike.

Whether you're researching Farnborough’s aviation heritage, tracing aircraft developments, or simply passionate about flight, the aviation collection offers a fascinating window into the world of aviation.

What to explore

• More than 5,000 aviation books, pamphlets, directories and yearbooks
• Historic news cuttings, photographs and postcards
• Aviation videos and reference materials
• Resources covering aerospace, commercial aviation and military aviation history
• Borrowable books and research materials

For opening times and further information, visit the Hampshire Libraries special collection website, where you can also browse the catalogue.

 

FAST Museum

Trenchard House, 85 Farnborough Road, Farnborough, GU14 6TF

Discover Farnborough’s pioneering role in aviation at the Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST) Museum, located beside the historic airfield. The museum showcases a remarkable collection of aircraft (actual and model), satellites, simulators, and rare artefacts from the legendary Royal Aircraft Establishment.

What to explore

• Aircraft and cockpit displays, including iconic British jets
• Space and satellite technology exhibits
• Interactive flight simulators for all ages
• Archives, photographs, and engineering documents
• Gift shop and café for a relaxed visit

Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, curious explorer, or family looking for a hands-on day out, FAST Museum offers a captivating journey through Farnborough’s sky-bound legacy.

For opening times, tickets and further information, visit the FAST Museum website.

 

Military collection - Aldershot Library

Aldershot Library, Princes Hall, Princes Way, Aldershot, Hampshire, GU11 1NX

Discover Hampshire’s military heritage at the military collection in Aldershot Library. This carefully curated collection reflects the county’s deep connections with the British armed forces and explores the people, places and events that have shaped its military history.

From military enthusiasts and historians to those exploring family connections to the armed forces, the military collection provides a valuable insight into Hampshire’s enduring military story.

What to explore

• Materials relating to Aldershot Garrison and Winchester Barracks
• Records of war memorials, commemorations and public displays
• Resources highlighting Hampshire’s military heritage
• Titles covering the military history of the Gurkhas
• Books and reference materials for local and family history research

For opening times and further information, visit the Hampshire Libraries special collection website, where you can also browse the catalogue.

 

National Aerospace Library

The Hub, Fowler Avenue, Farnborough Business Park, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 7JP

Discover one of the world’s most extensive collections dedicated to aeronautics, aviation and aerospace technology at the National Aerospace Library. Operated by the Royal Aeronautical Society and located in the heart of Farnborough - birthplace of British aviation - the library is a treasure trove for aviation enthusiasts, researchers, historians and curious visitors alike.

Whether you're researching the latest developments in aerospace engineering, tracing the history of flight, or simply fascinated by aviation heritage, the National Aerospace Library offers a unique opportunity to explore the people, technologies and ideas that have shaped aviation and space travel. Visitors are welcome to use the library’s extensive reference collections, and organised groups, schools and societies can arrange guided visits.

What to explore

• Extensive collections of aerospace and aviation books, journals, technical reports and conference papers
• Historic photographs, images, archives and publications documenting the development of flight
• Rare aerospace heritage collections, artefacts and pioneering aviation research materials
• Digital resources, including access to aerospace history collections and online catalogues
• Regular group visits featuring presentations and opportunities to browse the collections

For opening times, visitor information and further details, visit the National Aerospace Library website.

 

Royal Army Physical Training Corps Museum 

Fox Lines, Queen’s Avenue, Aldershot, GU11 2LB

Step inside the gates of military history at the Royal Army Physical Training Corps Museum, founded in 1953 and located “behind the wire” at the Army School of Physical Training in Aldershot. Gain a unique glimpse into the evolution of physical training in the British Army - from its origins in 1860 to today’s cutting-edge fitness regimes.

What to explore

• Interactive and static displays tracing the Corps’ journey from bayonet drills to modern rehabilitation techniques
• Historic collections of medals, uniforms, weapons, paintings, and Olympic memorabilia
• Trophies and honours awarded to Royal Army Physical Training Corps members, showcasing the corps’ ongoing excellence
• Stories of sporting legends like Sir Matt Busby and Kriss Akabusi who served in the Corps2

As the official museum of the Royal Army Physical Training Corps, it maintains close ties with today’s instructors who keep the Army “Fighting Fit and Fit to Fight”. Whether you're a military enthusiast, fitness buff, or curious explorer, this is a chance to uncover a hidden gem of British heritage.

For opening times, tickets and further information, visit the Royal Army Physical Training Corps Museum website.

 

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More events and activities

Many festival activities are free and some require advance booking. The programme of activities will grow over the next few weeks. Please check back here regularly for more events.

Many of these events are not organised by ourselves, so please check each individual organiser's website for more information.

To see the full list of events, please visit our main Rushmoor Heritage Festival page.