The Soldiers’ Story

All three regiments have served around the world, and have participated in major events in British history, including two World Wars and other conflicts.

The Royal Lancers Museum has been located at Derby Museum since 1973, and highlights the remarkable history of the Royal Lancers and its antecedent regiments. The other lancer museum is the Royal Lancers and Nottinghamshire Yeomanry Museum which is based at Thoresby, Nottinghamshire.

The Soldiers’ Story gallery also looks at what life was like in the army, including sport, family and social life. Displays include a fantastic collection of uniform, medals, weapons and equipment as well as personal items which tell the stories of soldiers from our local regiments.

What can I see?

Take a look at some of our Victoria Crosses – the highest military decoration for bravery. See the Barton trumpet which was used to sound the Charge at Waterloo in 1815. Imagine what it was like to use the field kit which was used by Lord Airlie, Commanding Officer of the 12th Royal Lancers, during the Boer War.

What can I do?

Why not try out Guard Duty in the original sentry box which used to be outside Normanton Barracks in Derby? Or you could try out the interactive world map showing all the places where the British Army has served.

What can I learn?

Explore the life of a soldier from the 1700s to the present day, through uniform, artefacts and personal stories. Find out what it was like to go to war on horseback, on foot and by tank. Discover uniform and equipment from Napoleonic times to the present day including chapkas, shakos and sabretaches.