The Keep Military Museum

The Keep Military Museum of the Regiments of Devonshire and Dorset is housed in an imposing Grade 2 Listed Building at Top o’ Town, Dorchester . The Museum tells the stories of Devonshire and Dorsetshire Regiments (including the 11th, 39th and 54th of Foot and the County Yeomanry ) and those who served in them, spanning nearly 325 years of history. The displays cover 4 floors and exhibits include Hitler’s desk, weapons, uniforms, silver, trench-art, personal items and a stunning collection of medals. New for 2008 was the Devonshire and Dorset Regiment Gallery, created with the help of Heritage Lottery funding. Throughout the museum, DVDs, computer displays and hands-on exhibits add variety to the static displays. An added bonus is the spectacular rooftop views of Dorchester and the surrounding countryside, brought to life in the novels of Thomas Hardy. The Museum has a small, free car park for visitors, a shop and children’s trails. The Museum has an archive that is not open to the public, but research can be undertaken in return for a donation to Museum funds. Groups, including school parties can be catered for – please contact the Curator in the first instance.

Opening Times

Open 1 Apr 2009 - 30 Sep 2009

Open 1 Oct 2009 - 1 Mar 2010

Open 1 Jan 2010 - 31 Mar 2010

* Last admission is 1 hour before closing time. The Museum is closed for approximately two weeks over Christmas and New Year. Please check Musuem's own website for details.

Tickets Information

Road Directions

Nearest main roads - A35 and A354. We have a small car park next to the Museum and are two minutes walk from the Top O'Town car and coach park.

Public Transport Directions

Dorchester South Station - On leaving the station approach road, please turn right and proceed along Weymouth Avenue to town centre, straight along Trinity Street and turn left at top of Trinity Street along High West Street. About 20 minutes walk.
Dorchester West Station - On leaving the station approach road, please turn left and proceed straight up Cornwall Road. The Museum is opposite. About 10 minutes walk.
Buses - Nearest bus stop is 'Top o' Town'. About 5 minutes walk.

 Facilities

Provider Preferences

• In town/city centre
• No Smoking Attraction

Accessibility

• Guide Dogs Permitted
• Parking Areas for Disabled Visitors
• Ramp/Level Access
• Toilets for Disabled Visitors

Parking & Transport

• Parking (free)

Payment Methods

• Approx length of visit - 01:30
• Groups Accepted
• Maestro accepted
• MasterCard accepted
• Max group size - 30
• Min group size - 10
• Open by appointment outside normal opening times
• Special group rates
• TIC Staff Admitted Free
• Visa accepted

Establishment Features

• Conference facilities
• Toilets

Languages spoken

• French spoken

Tours and Demonstrations

• Educational Visits Accepted
• Guided Tours Available for Groups