Berkshire Yeomanry Museum
Two centuries of Berkshire's volunteer military heritage, from cavalry to signals.
Housed within the Army Reserve Centre in Windsor, the Berkshire Yeomanry Museum preserves over two centuries of military heritage through a carefully curated collection of regimental artifacts, uniforms, and memorabilia. Founded in 1974, the museum chronicles the distinguished service of Berkshire's volunteer cavalry regiment from its establishment in 1794 through the Cold War era, including campaigns in South Africa, both World Wars, and the Middle East. Admission is free, making it an accessible destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in British military heritage.
A brief summary to Berkshire Yeomanry
- 86 Bolton Rd, Windsor, SL4 3JG, GB
- +441753860600
- Duration: 0.75 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Admission is free, making this an excellent value destination for military history enthusiasts and families interested in British heritage.
- Contact ahead to confirm opening hours and arrange group visits, as the museum operates within an active Army Reserve Centre with restricted access times.
- Combine your visit with exploration of Windsor's other military heritage sites, including the Berkshire Yeomanry and Trooper Potts Memorial in Reading, which honours the Victoria Cross recipient.
- Allow time to examine the uniforms, weapons, and communications equipment spanning from the 1790s to the Cold War era—the technical evolution is particularly striking.
- Visit during quieter weekday periods to enjoy a more personal experience and potentially speak with knowledgeable staff about specific artifacts or family connections to the regiment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Train from London
From London Waterloo or London Paddington, direct trains serve Windsor and Eton Riverside station, approximately 35–45 minutes. From the station, the Army Reserve Centre on Bolton Road is roughly 1.5 kilometres away; local buses or a short taxi journey (approximately £8–12) provide convenient access. Trains run regularly throughout the day; check National Rail for current schedules and fares, typically £6–15 return depending on time of booking.
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Car from Central Berkshire
From Reading or Newbury, the A4 or A329 provide direct routes to Windsor; journey times are 25–40 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. The Army Reserve Centre has limited parking available on-site; street parking on Bolton Road and surrounding residential areas offers alternatives. Parking is typically free but may be restricted during peak hours; arrive early or contact the museum in advance regarding parking arrangements.
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Local Bus from Windsor Town Centre
Several local bus routes serve the Bolton Road area from Windsor town centre, approximately 1–2 kilometres away. Journey time is typically 10–15 minutes. Buses run regularly throughout the day; check local transport operators for current routes and fares, usually £1.50–3 per journey. This option is convenient if arriving by train or staying in Windsor.
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Walking from Windsor Town Centre
From Windsor town centre, the Army Reserve Centre is approximately 1.5 kilometres away via residential streets and local roads. The walk takes 20–25 minutes on relatively flat terrain with pavements throughout. This option suits visitors exploring Windsor's broader heritage and offers an opportunity to experience the local neighbourhood; however, contact the museum beforehand to confirm access procedures for pedestrian visitors to the military facility.
Berkshire Yeomanry location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Berkshire Yeomanry
Two Centuries of Volunteer Service
The Berkshire Yeomanry Museum documents the remarkable history of one of England's oldest volunteer military units, tracing its lineage back to 1794 when the regiment was first raised in response to fears of French invasion. Over more than two centuries, the Berkshire Yeomanry evolved from mounted cavalry into a modern signals unit, earning numerous battle honours across Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East. The regiment's service spans from the Napoleonic era through the Cold War, representing a continuous thread of voluntary military commitment from Berkshire's communities.From Cavalry to Signals: Transformation and Adaptation
The museum's collection reflects the dramatic transformations the regiment underwent throughout its operational history. Originally organized as a cavalry unit with squadrons based across Berkshire—at Windsor, Reading, Newbury, and Wantage—the Berkshire Yeomanry adapted to changing military needs. During the First World War, the regiment converted to a cyclist unit before being reformed after the war as an artillery regiment. By the 1960s, it had evolved into an armoured car unit and finally into 94 (Berkshire Yeomanry) Signal Squadron, a role it maintains today as part of the Royal Signals. The museum's displays illustrate these transitions through uniforms, weapons, communications equipment, and regimental insignia spanning different eras.Gallipoli Heroism and Battlefield Honours
Among the most poignant artifacts in the collection are those commemorating the regiment's service during the Gallipoli Campaign of the First World War, where Private Frederick Potts earned the Victoria Cross for extraordinary bravery. This singular honour represents the highest recognition of military valour and stands as a testament to the courage displayed by Berkshire soldiers. The museum also preserves records and memorabilia from the Boer War and the Second World War, when the regiment served across multiple theatres of operation. Battle honours won from Europe to the Far East underscore the regiment's extensive combat experience and sacrifice.Cold War Communications and Modern Role
During the Cold War, the Berkshire Yeomanry took on a specialized role providing post-nuclear-strike communications for Military Home Defence, equipped with high-power HF radios and later sophisticated antenna systems. The museum exhibits the technical equipment and documentation of this critical period, when the regiment maintained readiness to support national defence infrastructure. In 1953, the regiment fired a salute in Windsor Great Park for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, and in 1958 participated in national celebrations marking the Territorial Army's 50th anniversary, reviewed by the Queen herself in Hyde Park.Regimental Recognition and Community Legacy
The Berkshire Yeomanry's contributions to the nation have been formally recognized through the granting of the freedom of the Royal Borough of Windsor in 1994 on the regiment's 200th anniversary, and the freedom of the borough of Runnymede in 2009. These honours reflect the deep connections between the regiment and the communities it has served. The museum serves as a repository of this shared heritage, preserving not only military artifacts but also the stories of ordinary soldiers who volunteered their service across generations.The Museum Experience
Located within the Army Reserve Centre on Bolton Road, the museum presents its collection in a permanent display that educates visitors about the regiment's multifaceted history. The setting within an active military facility adds authenticity to the experience, allowing visitors to see the regiment's legacy in its operational context. The museum's mission extends beyond preservation to active education, ensuring that the sacrifices and achievements of the Berkshire Yeomanry remain understood and appreciated by present and future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
1.0 km
Discover the legacy of WWI hero Lt Col Harry Greenwood at his birthplace marked by a blue plaque in historic Windsor.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
1.1 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
1.3 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.3 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
1.4 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
The Curfew Tower
1.5 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
King Edward III Tower
1.5 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
1.5 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
1.6 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
1.6 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Sydney Camm Memorial
1.7 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Burning Bush
2.4 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
King George III & His Horse Statue
2.9 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
Herschel Park
3.7 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Herschel Park, a serene oasis in Slough, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
John F Kennedy Memorial
4.1 km
A solemn tribute to President Kennedy on historic English soil, linking liberty's roots across the Atlantic at Runnymede.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Windsor Castle
0.5 km
Explore Windsor Castle, the world's oldest inhabited castle, blending royal history, stunning architecture, and British tradition in a majestic palace setting.
Windsor Vintage
0.7 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky antiques in Windsor Vintage, a charming boutique emporium in the heart of historic Windsor.
WMServices
0.8 km
Discover the charm of WMServices in Windsor, a must-visit tourist attraction rich in culture and history, perfect for all travelers.
Holy Trinity Garrison Church
0.9 km
A historic Anglican church in Windsor blending military heritage with community spirit and stunning stained glass artistry.
The Long Walk
1.0 km
A majestic 2.65-mile tree-lined ceremonial avenue connecting Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse, steeped in royal history and natural splendor.
Duchess of Kent Mausoleum
1.1 km
A serene royal memorial nestled in the tranquil gardens of Frogmore Estate, honoring Queen Victoria’s mother with Victorian elegance.
Frogmore Cottage
1.1 km
Historic royal retreat nestled in Windsor’s Frogmore Estate, blending serene gardens with centuries of British monarchy heritage.
Bachelor's Acre
1.1 km
Royal tribute meets family fun in Windsor's cherished town-centre park.
The Gothic Ruins
1.1 km
Explore the evocative Gothic Ruins nestled in the tranquil, historic gardens of Windsor’s royal Frogmore Estate.
Soldier's Statue
1.2 km
Explore Windsor's Soldier's Statue, a historic landmark honoring the courage of soldiers amidst the beauty of the city.
Ancient well
1.2 km
Discover Windsor’s Ancient Well: a tranquil historic landmark nestled near the royal castle, rich with centuries of local heritage and timeless charm.
Historical Windsor
1.2 km
Step into Windsor’s rich past and vibrant present on historic Peascod Street, where royal heritage meets charming shopping.
Frogmore House and Gardens
1.2 km
An intimate royal retreat where centuries of monarchy found solace in elegant gardens and private chambers.
The Music & Words Club
1.2 km
A vibrant Windsor venue where music and spoken word unite in an intimate, creative atmosphere.
Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee
1.3 km
A historic obelisk in Windsor honoring royal jubilees, blending heritage with serene green space at Bachelors Acre.
Essential places to dine
Misugo Japanese Windsor
0.7 km
Authentic Japanese flavors and fresh sushi crafted with passion in a warm, family-run setting in Windsor.
The Alma
0.7 km
A cozy and friendly British pub in Windsor offering classic fare, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming space for families and pets alike.
Best Meze Grill
0.8 km
Experience the rich, authentic flavors of Turkish meze and grilled specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Windsor.
Windsor Grill
0.8 km
Experience expertly grilled British and European classics in a relaxed, elegant setting at Windsor Grill in the heart of Windsor.
Al Fassia Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Windsor at Al Fassia Restaurant.
Duck & Dim Sum Chinese Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Chinese flavors with aromatic crispy duck and delicate dim sum in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant dining scene.
Electric Garden
1.0 km
A vibrant and eclectic dining spot in Windsor’s heart, blending creative cuisine with a lively, casual atmosphere.
Meimo
1.0 km
Authentic Moroccan warmth and flavours in the heart of Windsor, where family hospitality meets culinary tradition.
Enzo's Windsor
1.1 km
A family-run Italian gem in Windsor serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and hearty pasta in a warm, inviting setting.
Park Bistro, Windsor
1.1 km
Experience expertly grilled Scottish steaks and warm hospitality in the heart of Windsor’s lively Peascod Street.
Antalya Restaurant Windsor
1.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Windsor’s historic Peascod Street.
À la Russe
1.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and elegant dining just steps from Windsor Castle at À la Russe, a cherished culinary gem on High Street.
Meat At The Parish
1.2 km
A vibrant steakhouse and cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly dry-aged steaks and a cozy, contemporary atmosphere near Windsor Castle.
Long Walk Grill
1.2 km
Cozy Mediterranean dining with stone-baked pizzas and fresh seafood in the heart of historic Windsor’s High Street.
Eighteen
1.3 km
Elegant dining on Windsor’s High Street, blending classic charm with modern culinary excellence and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vinegar Hill
1.0 km
A curated lifestyle shop in Windsor offering stylish homewares, gifts, and fashion in a warm, boutique setting.
Roz Clarke
1.0 km
Discover chic elegance and personalized style at Roz Clarke, Windsor’s premier boutique for women’s fashion, accessories, and expert styling advice.
Ryad Momo
1.1 km
Discover Moroccan elegance and unique handcrafted gifts at Ryad Momo, Windsor’s charming boutique for exquisite homeware and candles.
Nomad Concept Store
1.1 km
A vibrant concept store and art studio in Windsor, blending vintage fashion, handmade crafts, and spiritual curiosities in a colorful, bohemian space.
Oxfam
1.1 km
Discover unique second-hand treasures and support global causes in Windsor’s historic Oxfam charity shop near Windsor Castle.
Cancer Research UK
1.1 km
Secondhand treasures with purpose—sustainable shopping that funds life-saving cancer research.
Nea Boutique
1.1 km
Discover unique, stylish women's fashion and accessories at Nea Boutique, a charming Windsor boutique with a curated collection and personal service.
Warwicks
1.1 km
A premier men's clothing store nestled in Windsor’s historic Peascod Street, blending classic style with modern shopping charm.
The Works
1.2 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant shopping district.
Next
1.2 km
Next Windsor offers stylish, quality fashion and accessories for all ages in a convenient and welcoming shopping environment.
Temptation Gifts
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts and over 1,000 greeting cards in Windsor’s welcoming and ever-changing Temptation Gifts store on Peascod Street.
Craft Coop Windsor
1.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry at Craft Coop Windsor, a welcoming hub for community creativity and bespoke treasures.
Crew Clothing
1.2 km
Classic British smart casual wear in the heart of historic Windsor, blending timeless style with quality craftsmanship.
Daniel Department Store
1.3 km
Historic family-run department store in Windsor offering luxury fashion, homeware, dining, and personalized services in a modern setting.
huttons
1.3 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Huttons, a charming family-run independent store in the heart of historic Windsor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
No5 St Leonards Road
1.0 km
Elegant cocktails, sparkling chandeliers, and a welcoming atmosphere combine at No5 St Leonards Road, Windsor’s premier cocktail bar.
The Queen Victoria
1.0 km
Step into The Queen Victoria for an authentic 18th-century English pub experience with hearty food, real ales, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere in Windsor.
The Acre
1.1 km
A lively Windsor bar with engaging karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Sinner Bar
1.1 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
The Corner House
1.1 km
A lively two-floor pub and sports bar in Windsor, offering great drinks, live sports on HD screens, and versatile event spaces.
The Piper Art Bar
1.1 km
Discover a vibrant Scottish-themed bar and contemporary art space in the heart of Windsor, offering an extensive whisky selection and eclectic ambiance.
The Two Brewers
1.2 km
Historic 18th-century pub near Windsor Castle offering classic British ales, cozy ambiance, and a charming floral exterior.
The Prince Harry
1.3 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
The Shambles
1.3 km
Discover Windsor’s award-winning bar housed in a charmingly tilted historic building, famed for creative cocktails and warm hospitality.
The Carpenters Arms
1.3 km
Historic pub in Windsor serving classic British fare and cask ales in a welcoming, artisan-inspired setting near Windsor Castle.
The Cobbles
1.3 km
Cozy cocktail bar in a historic 17th-century building opposite Windsor Castle, blending heritage charm with exceptional drinks and warm service.
The Horse & Groom
1.3 km
Historic and welcoming English pub opposite Windsor Castle, offering hearty food, local ales, and cosy accommodation in the heart of Windsor.
Upstairs Windsor
1.4 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
All Bar One Windsor
1.4 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
1.4 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Pink Gentleman's Club.
1.2 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
1.3 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
The Boom
1.3 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Scotch
1.3 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
The Binfield Club
13.2 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Winkers Nightclub
16.0 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Diligence
17.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
20.1 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
The Venue, Bucks
20.1 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
3sixty
23.2 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Q Club
25.0 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
25.1 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Reading Lola Lo
25.2 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Popworld - Reading
25.2 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Popworld Watford
25.4 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access