Are you interested in military history? These are the must-visit war museums in Wales:
1Chirk Castle
ChirkChirk Castle is a Grade I listed castle situated in Chirk, Wrexham County Borough, Wales. The castle, which was built in 1295, is now owned and managed by the National Trust. It was part of King Edward I's chain of fortresses across the north of Wales and served as the administrative centre for the Marcher Lordship of Chirkland. 2National Roman Legion Museum
CaerleonIsca became the headquarters of the Legio II Augusta around 75 AD, when the Roman governor Sextus Julius Frontinus undertook the conquest of southern Wales. A first wooden fortress was built, which included a headquarters (principia), residence of the legate, of the tribune, a hospital, baths, shops, barracks, granaries, and an amphitheater. This gives an insight into the comprehensive nature of the Roman military establishment at the time. 3Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths
CaerleonThe Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths is a historical site located in the Welsh region of Newport, specifically in the historic county of Monmouthshire, Great Britain. This complex is home to the remnants of a Roman legion fort and baths that date back to the first century. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and architectural marvels of the Roman era. 4Llancaiach Fawr Manor
NelsonLlancaiach Fawr is a manor house that dates back to the 16th century. It is situated in Caerphilly, Wales. The manor house is listed as a Grade I protected building, which means it is of exceptional interest. This historical significance makes it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in architecture and history. 5The Regimental Museum of The Royal Welsh
BreconThe Regimental Museum of The Royal Welsh, previously known as the South Wales Borderers Museum, is situated in the town of Brecon in Wales. This museum is a testament to the rich history of the regiment, showcasing a collection of artefacts from around the world that span over 300 years. 6Royal Welch Fusiliers Regimental Museum
CaernarfonCaernarfon Castle, located in the city of Caernarfon in North Wales, is a significant historical site. It was constructed by King Edward I of England following his successful campaign to subdue Wales. The castle served as a symbol of the final submission of the newly incorporated territory to his kingdom. This historical context provides a rich backdrop for visitors to the castle today. 7Holyhead Maritime Museum
HolyheadThe Holyhead Maritime Museum is situated in Holyhead, North Wales. It is housed in a building that is believed to be the oldest Lifeboat station in Wales, constructed around 1858. This historical setting adds a unique charm to the museum, making it a fascinating place to explore the maritime history of the region. 8Scolton Manor Museum
HaverfordwestScolton Manor is a Victorian country house and country park situated in Pembrokeshire, West Wales. It is located northeast of Haverfordwest and borders the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This location offers visitors a chance to explore both the manor and the beautiful surrounding landscapes. 9Denbigh Castle
DenbighDenbigh Castle is a museum in Denbigh. The museum features exhibits related to Social History, Architecture, Weapons and War and Archaeology. 10Milford Haven Museum
Milford HavenThe Milford Haven Museum is a maritime and heritage museum located in Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire. It was opened in 1991 and offers a deep dive into the maritime history of the town. The museum's exhibitions explore the fishing and oil industries that have shaped the area over the years. 11Carmarthenshire Museum
AbergwiliThe Carmarthenshire County Museum is situated in the historic county town of Carmarthen, in Carmarthenshire, Wales. Its exact location is Abergwili, Carmarthen, SA31 2JG. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, managed by the Carmarthenshire County Council. 12Chepstow Museum
ChepstowChepstow Museum is conveniently located near the town centre, making it easily accessible for tourists. It is situated opposite Chepstow Castle on Bridge Street, and is also near the River Wye. This location not only provides easy access, but also offers a scenic view of the surrounding area. 13Llandudno Museum and Gallery
LlandudnoLlandudno Museum and Art Gallery is responsible for a unique collection which tells the story of Llandudno over 340 million years. Llandudno museum was founded by Francis Edouard Chardon in 1925. Chardon bequeathed his home, Rapallo House, and his collection of decorative and fine arts and artefacts 14Firing Line: The Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
CardiffThe Firing Line: Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier is a unique museum that showcases the collections of the 1st The Queen's Dragoon Guards and the Royal Welsh. These collections provide a deep insight into the history and heritage of these regiments, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in military history. 15Castle and Regimental Museum
MonmouthThe Monmouth Museum was closed during the COVID-19 pandemic and did not reopen. However, in 2021, the Monmouthshire County Council announced plans to relocate the museum collection to the Shire Hall in Agincourt Square. This move is part of a five-year project supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, with the new museum expected to open by 2027. 16Pontypridd Museum
PontypriddPontypridd Museum is a museum in Pontypridd. The museum features exhibits related to Social History, Costume and Textiles, Weapons and War, Fine Art, Archives, Science and Technology, Music, Personalities and Land Transport. 17South Wales Police Heritage Centre
PorthcawlFrom the Celtic age to present day, we tell the fascinating stories of South Wales’ officers through the decades. Explore the kit of a Victorian constable; discover the tough duties of Glamorgan officers in World War I, and uncover some of the weapons used against police. Our galleries contain a ran 18Powysland Museum
WelshpoolPowysland Museum is a museum in Welshpool. The museum features exhibits related to Weapons and War, Coins and Medals, World Cultures, Archaeology, Costume and Textiles, Land Transport, Social History and Natural Sciences. 19Cynon Valley Museum
AberdareCome along to the Cynon Valley Museum to discover the history of the people who worked and lived here. The museum also displays wall-mounted and 3D art in two temporary exhibition spaces, all produced by locally based artists. The Shop sells handmade homeware, art and gifts. Our cafe is open everyd 20Caerleon Amphitheatre
NewportThe Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths complex consists of the remnants of a first-century Roman legion fort with baths, located in Caerleon in the Welsh region of Newport, in the historic county of Monmouthshire in Great Britain. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and architecture of the Roman era, with the ruins of the fort and baths providing a glimpse into the lives of the Roman soldiers who once inhabited this area. 21Brynmawr Museum & Historical Society
BrynmawrBrynmawr Museum and Historical Society is a museum in Brynmawr. The museum features exhibits related to Medicine, Agriculture, Literature, Weapons and War, Social History, Design, Fine Art, Film and Media, Coins and Medals, Photography, Industry, Archives, Toys and Hobbies, Archaeology, Religion, M- 22
Narberth Museum
NarberthNarberth Museum is a museum in Narberth. The museum features exhibits related to Science and Technology, Fine Art, Social History, Costume and Textiles, Weapons and War, Archives, Personalities, Coins and Medals and Decorative and Applied Art. - 23
Porthcawl Museum
PorthcawlPorthcawl Museum is a museum in Porthcawl. The museum features exhibits related to: maritime, costume and textiles, social history, weapons and war, archaeology, land transport and archives. Key themes, people and exhibits in the museum include: 49th reconnaissance regiment and welsh guards. - 24
Carew Cheriton Control Tower
CarewAn old WW2 airfield, renovated by volunteers. RAF Carew Cheriton was first used during the First World War as a Royal Naval Air Station. During World War Two the site was rebuilt as a Coastal Command Station. - 25
Amgueddfa Howell Harris Museum
BreconThis small museum depicts the life and work of Howell Harris, the first Methodist (converted 1735) and the self-sufficient Christian community (Teulu Trefeca - the Trefeca family) founded on the site in 1752. The museum is housed in part of the Grade II* Listed Building built by the community. Amgue