79 Fore St, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0BS
Valiant Soldier
Location
About
The Valiant Soldier Museum in Buckfastleigh, England, is a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in learning about the area's rich military past. Located in the heart of Devon, the museum is a fascinating exploration of the town's contribution to the defense of England over the centuries.
The museum is named after the Valiant Soldier pub, which is situated next door. The pub has been in existence since 1620, and the museum is housed in its historic cellars. The museum boasts an extensive collection of artifacts and displays that chart the area's military history from the 17th century to the present day.
Visitors to the museum can explore the various rooms, each dedicated to a different era or theme. The first room focuses on the 17th century, a time when Buckfastleigh was an important hub for the wool trade. The displays here include military uniforms and weapons used during this period, as well as a range of historical documents and photographs.
Moving on, the next room is dedicated to the 18th and 19th centuries, when Buckfastleigh played an important role in the defense of the country during the Napoleonic Wars. Visitors can learn about the local militias that were formed to defend against French invasion, as well as the lives of soldiers stationed in the area at the time.
The museum's collection also includes exhibits that detail Buckfastleigh's contribution to the two world wars. Visitors can learn about the experiences of local soldiers during the conflicts, and view a range of military equipment and memorabilia from the periods.
The museum also features a range of interactive exhibits, making it an engaging and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. For example, there are touch-screen displays that allow visitors to explore the history of individual soldiers and their contributions to the town's military history.
One of the museum's most notable exhibits is the World War II Air Raid Shelter. The shelter is a replica of the kind that would have been used by local residents during air raids in the town. Visitors can enter the shelter and experience what it would have been like to shelter from bombing raids during the war.
Overall, the Valiant Soldier Museum in Buckfastleigh is an excellent destination for anyone interested in military history. With its extensive collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits, the museum offers a unique and informative experience that is sure to fascinate visitors of all ages. So, if you find yourself in the area, be sure to pay a visit and discover the rich military heritage of Buckfastleigh.
Gallery
Opening Hours
| Wednesday | 11:30 am–4 pm |
|---|---|
| Thursday | 11:30 am–4 pm |
| Friday | 11:30 am–4 pm |
| Saturday | 11:30 am–4 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |