The British Empire's Shotgun - A Military Tour of London ⚔️

📍 London · 👁 4239 reads · ❤️ 20 likes

At its peak, the British Empire was the country with the most territory in the world. Driven by the Industrial Revolution, Britain's military strength advanced rapidly, creating the legend of the British Empire.

The flames of war and smoke have long subsided, but the military miracles of the British Empire are still a topic of great interest to every military enthusiast. Here is the most comprehensive guide to a London military tour – don't forget to save it!

The National Army Museum showcases the most complete history of the development of the British Army. From the historical role of the British Army to its internal specific functions, you can get a glimpse of it all here.

There is an interactive museum specially designed for all ages, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the history of the British Army in depth.

From the English Civil War to the present, the British Army has been an invader across the world, a defender of the homeland, and a peacekeeping force in the modern United Nations. The changing identity of the British Army reflects the rise and fall of the British Empire and also presents the development and progress of modern Britain.

(Original ticket price ¥108, free with London Pass)

Maritime affairs played a vital role in the construction of the British Empire. The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich is the largest maritime museum in the world. It displays thousands of exhibits and artifacts spanning British maritime history, showcasing the stories of the world's famous explorers.

From the Pacific to the poles, from the 15th century to the 21st century, it presents the most complete picture of British maritime history.

Fijian canoes, food and diaries of polar explorers, pirates' daily items, whale teeth, pocket watches of Titanic victims... from south to north, from ancient to modern, the gaps of time and space are bridged by maritime history.

(Original ticket price ¥201, free with London Pass)

Churchill is undoubtedly one of Britain's most famous politicians and military figures, remembered by countless Britons. His deeds are also a favorite topic among historians and military enthusiasts. At the Churchill War Rooms, Churchill's life is detailed and displayed to commemorate this 'greatest Briton'.

The Churchill War Rooms are located beneath Westminster Street in London. Here, visitors can learn about the inner workings of British military and diplomacy during World War II. Winston Churchill and his cabinet ministers once discussed Britain's strategies and plans during WWII here. The museum's winding corridors and dim lighting create the most authentic World War II atmosphere for visiting guests.

Visitors can see the transatlantic telephone room disguised as a private toilet, and the special typewriter used by Churchill's secretaries—the Remington Noiseless.

(Original ticket price ¥81, free with London Pass)

The British Household Cavalry was founded in 1661, consisting of the Life Guards and the Royal Horse Guards (Blues and Royals). Today, the Household Cavalry still shoulders the important duties of protecting Her Majesty the Queen and carrying out humanitarian and peace missions around the world.

The Household Cavalry Museum is located in Whitehall in central London, showcasing the history and working conditions of the Queen's Cavalry Guard from its establishment to the present. Since 1750, this has been the headquarters of the Household Cavalry. For over 350 years, the Household Cavalry has held guard ceremonies and inspection parades here every morning and afternoon, rain or shine.

Visitors can view the stables, still in use since the 18th century, and the guardsmen preparing for duty through the museum's glass screens. This provides the most vivid exclusive behind-the-scenes perspective. You can even personally put on cavalry uniforms and helmets to experience the daily life of the Household Cavalry.

(With a London Pass, you can receive a free visitor guide originally priced at ¥44)

The Imperial War Museum collects and displays war images, objects, and materials from the 20th century to the present, seeking to reveal the most authentic battlefield through the eyes of those who experienced war, and to examine war itself.

From the Berlin Wall to the Nazi Holocaust, from wreckage of Japanese fighter planes to the war on terror, it exposes the cruelty and ruthlessness of war in the most direct form, prompting people to deeply understand and reflect on war.

When we talk about war and the military, we must not only commemorate glory and achievements, but also remember casualties and pain.

Precious peace requires the protection of each and every one of us.

Travelogue Directory:

1. National Army Museum

2. National Maritime Museum

3. Churchill War Rooms

4. Household Cavalry Museum

5. Imperial War Museum

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