Educational Days Out in Gloucester: Discover Living History at the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
Looking for educational days out in Gloucester that will inspire, engage, and stay with children long after your visit? At the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, families and school groups can dive into over 300 years of real military history through hands-on exhibits, personal stories, and rare artefacts—all in the atmospheric setting of Gloucester Docks.
This year, as the UK marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day), the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-known early battles of the Second World War—moments of courage and sacrifice that set the tone for what was to come.
Why Choose the Soldiers of Gloucestershire for an Educational Day Out?
Unlike traditional classroom learning, the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum brings history to life. From the red coats of the Napoleonic Wars to the jungle fatigues of post-war operations, the museum covers the evolution of soldiering in vivid detail.✅ Interactive displays and multimedia exhibits✅ Authentic uniforms and artefacts to try on and handle✅ Family and school-friendly quiz trails and activities✅ Located in the heart of Gloucester’s historic docksWhether you’re a teacher planning a term-time trip or a parent looking for school holiday enrichment, the museum offers a perfect mix of education and entertainment.
A Focus on World War II: Cassel and Ledringhem, May 1940
In the early months of the Second World War, British troops were sent to France as part of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF). Among them was the 5th Battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment, who found themselves fighting a desperate rearguard action against advancing German forces.At Cassel and Ledringhem, small units of the Glosters were tasked with delaying the enemy to allow other troops to reach Dunkirk and escape back to Britain. Despite being outnumbered and cut off, these brave soldiers held their ground in village streets, farmhouses, and even churchyards, buying time for the evacuation.One remarkable account tells of Captain L.C. Hauting, who led his men through house-to-house defence before being taken prisoner. Others, like Private David Porter, gave their lives in the line of duty. Many are now buried in the Bruyelle War Cemetery, and their stories are commemorated in the museum’s displays.This early chapter in WWII history helps young visitors understand the personal cost of war, the strategic importance of sacrifice, and the role Gloucestershire’s soldiers played from the very start.
How the Museum Makes History Fun and Engaging for Children
The museum’s aim is to spark curiosity through immersive storytelling. Kids can:
- Wear real and replica uniforms
- See how much a soldier’s kit bag weighs
- Use touchscreens to explore maps, diaries, and photos
- Discover unusual items like a Queen Victoria chocolate box or a Korean War bugle
Seasonal events, including VE Day 80 activities, bring even more to explore—from 1940s music and games to hands-on crafts like building paper Spitfires or decoding messages.It’s a perfect complement to KS2 and KS3 curriculum topics such as:
- Life in World War II
- The Home Front and evacuation
- Local history and global conflicts
Beyond the Museum: Gloucester as a Learning Destination
Your educational day out doesn’t have to stop at the museum doors. Nestled in the historic Gloucester Docks, the museum is close to:
- Gloucester Cathedral, with links to royal history and the Harry Potter films
- The National Waterways Museum, great for learning about the city’s trade and canal network
- Walking trails along the River Severn, ideal for geography and nature connections
You can also spot real working boats and enjoy picnic spots or cafés along the waterside—perfect for rounding off your day.
Plan Your Visit
📍 Location: Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, Custom House, Gloucester Docks🎟️ Tickets: Affordable family and group rates; under 5s go free🕘 Opening Hours: See soldiersofglos.com for current times and event listings
Conclusion
When it comes to educational days out in Gloucester, few destinations offer the rich blend of hands-on learning, local pride, and powerful storytelling that the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum provides. Especially in this 80th anniversary year of VE Day, it’s a chance to honour the past—and help the next generation understand it.Discover, explore, and be inspired by real stories of courage—from the streets of Ledringhem to the heart of Gloucester.