Made in Leyland - Centurion Tank
Explore the iconic Centurion Tank monument in Leyland, a powerful symbol of British military engineering and industrial heritage.
The Made in Leyland Centurion Tank is a striking roadside monument located in Farington Moss, Leyland, celebrating the town’s rich industrial heritage as the birthplace of the iconic British Centurion tank. This preserved battle tank symbolizes Leyland’s key role in military engineering and manufacturing during the post-World War II era, attracting history enthusiasts and military buffs eager to explore a landmark of British armored vehicle legacy.
A brief summary to Made in Leyland - Centurion Tank
- Flensburg Way, Leyland, Farington Moss, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the tank’s details and surrounding landscape.
- Bring a camera for striking photos of this imposing military landmark.
- Combine your visit with a tour of Leyland’s industrial heritage sites for a deeper historical context.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the area around the tank is outdoors and may involve walking on uneven ground.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Leyland town center to Flensburg Way, Farington Moss, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run regularly on weekdays and Saturdays, with a fare around £2-£4. Note that service frequency reduces on Sundays and public holidays.
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Car
Driving to the Centurion Tank monument via main roads from Leyland takes about 10 minutes. Limited roadside parking is available near Flensburg Way. Be aware that parking spaces can be scarce during peak hours, and the site is outdoors with no dedicated visitor parking lot.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Leyland town center to the tank monument typically takes 10 minutes and costs approximately £8-£12 depending on traffic. This is a convenient option if public transport schedules are limited.
Made in Leyland - Centurion Tank location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Made in Leyland - Centurion Tank
Industrial Heritage and Military Significance
The Centurion tank, manufactured primarily by Leyland Motors in Lancashire, stands as a testament to Britain's post-war military engineering prowess. Developed during the final stages of World War II and entering service in 1949, the Centurion was designed to address the diverse combat challenges faced in the North African campaigns. It became one of the most successful and versatile tanks in British history, seeing action in numerous conflicts worldwide from the Korean War through to the Gulf War. Leyland’s role as the principal manufacturer highlights the town’s significant contribution to British defense industry and technological innovation.Design and Technical Excellence
The Centurion combined heavy armor, mobility, and firepower in a balanced design. Early models featured a 17-pounder gun, later upgraded to a fully stabilised 105mm L7 series main gun, capable of engaging a variety of targets. Powered by a Rolls-Royce 650hp petrol engine, the tank had a maximum speed of 34 km/h and a combat weight exceeding 50 tons. Despite some limitations such as fuel consumption and range, the Centurion’s robust construction and adaptable armament made it a formidable presence on the battlefield and a symbol of British armored vehicle excellence.Symbolism and Local Identity
Situated on Flensburg Way in Farington Moss, the preserved Centurion tank serves as a gateway monument welcoming visitors to Leyland. It commemorates the town’s industrial legacy, particularly its pivotal role in manufacturing these iconic tanks. The tank’s presence as a roadside landmark connects the community to its historical roots, celebrating the skilled craftsmanship and engineering achievements of Leyland’s workforce. It stands not only as a military artifact but also as a cultural emblem of local pride and identity.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors approaching the Made in Leyland Centurion Tank encounter a powerful visual reminder of mid-20th-century military technology. The tank’s imposing silhouette against the Lancashire landscape evokes a sense of history and resilience. While the site is primarily an outdoor display, the monument’s scale and detail invite reflection on the complexities of armored warfare and industrial manufacturing. The location offers a contemplative atmosphere where history enthusiasts can appreciate the legacy of British armored forces and Leyland’s role within it.Preservation and Educational Value
The Centurion tank at Leyland is preserved as a static exhibit, providing educational insight into the evolution of armored vehicles post-World War II. Its maintenance as a public monument ensures ongoing recognition of British military history and industrial heritage. The tank’s detailed construction and historical significance make it a valuable resource for understanding armored vehicle development, military strategy, and the socio-economic impact of defense manufacturing on local communities.Legacy and Continuing Influence
The Centurion’s design influenced subsequent tank models and remains a celebrated icon in military history. Leyland’s manufacturing legacy continues to be recognized through this monument, linking past innovations to present-day engineering achievements. The tank’s enduring presence in Leyland serves as a reminder of the town’s contribution to global military history and the importance of preserving industrial heritage for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
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For the social media creator & influencer
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Location Audience
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