Established as a Museum on 7th December 1932 in the Keep of Carlisle Castle, Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life opened in its first Castle-based location 90 years ago. As early as the late 1920s Depot officers, under the leadership of General Shears, had requested objects and items for a new Museum to highlight the military traditions and rich history of the Border Regiment. With the help of Tullie House Museum, and the Office of Works who looked after Carlisle Castle, the authorities worked together to turn rooms within the Keep into a sanctuary for these objects. Over the years, Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life has evolved and developed into the exciting and vibrant Museum of today housing over 17,000 objects which tell the story of the wider history of our local infantry regiment. From Culloden to the Crimea, Arnhem to Afghanistan the museum collections continue to tell the story of soldiers past and present – ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life is preparing to celebrate its 90th birthday later this year. Continuing the military connection to the site, the Museum can be currently located within Alma Block the former Regimental Institute. The Museum has chosen to mark the event with activities and events throughout the 90 days of the run up to its birthday on 7 December. We value the support and assistance to continue to undertake this role and look forward to the next 90 years in the Regiment’s spiritual home. Find our programme of activity here