Irish Military War Museum

Irish Military War Museum
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About

One of Europe's most extensive hands-on wartime collections — touch, feel and handle original artefacts, vehicles and uniforms spanning conflicts from the Napoleonic era to the Gulf War.

Things to Do

Hands-on museum galleries

Over 15,000 sq ft of exhibits where you can handle original deactivated weaponry, uniforms and equipment. The permanent collection focuses on WW1 and WW2, with displays also covering the Napoleonic Wars, American Civil War, 1916 Easter Rising, Vietnam and the Gulf War. British, German, US, Irish Volunteer and Viet Cong uniforms are all on display.

Hands-on museum galleries

Walk through a WW1 trench

Experience the bleak, cramped conditions of a carefully recreated World War One trench — a highlight of the museum that brings the stark reality of trench warfare to life.

Walk through a WW1 trench

Film & TV costumes and props

Spot original costumes and props from Band of Brothers, Braveheart, A Bridge Too Far and Game of Thrones, displayed alongside the wartime collection.

Film & TV costumes and props

Drive an armoured personnel carrier

Take the wheel of an FV432 APC — a genuine tracked armoured personnel carrier. You can take a spin or even learn to drive it properly. A rare chance to command a real military vehicle.

Drive an armoured personnel carrier

Living history weekends

Throughout the year the museum hosts re-enactment events where costumed historians bring different eras to life — from Roman legionaries and Vikings to D-Day and Vietnam. The 2026 calendar includes a Vietnam Weekend (March), Easter Rising commemoration (April), D-Day weekend (June), Napoleonic and Roman weekends (July), and more. Admission to these events is included in the standard ticket.

Living history weekends

Playground, maze & picnic

Kids can burn off energy at the free outdoor playground with slides, swings and a mini obstacle course, plus a maze. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the outdoor area — there's a marquee for shade on sunny days.

Playground, maze & picnic

Camp overnight

The museum has private camping grounds on six acres with shower and cooking facilities. Tents, camper vans and caravans (with hook-up) are all accommodated. Exclusive family zones are available on request. Camping must be booked in advance by phone or email.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Summer (approx. Apr–Sep): Wednesday–Sunday 10am–5pm, plus Bank Holiday Mondays. Off-season: Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays only, 10am–5pm.
  • Admission: Adults €12.50, children €7.50, family of four €30
  • Parking: Free on-site parking available.
  • Food: The on-site café serves coffee, tea and light refreshments. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic. Hot food stalls appear during Living History Weekends and live music events. Nearby Collon village has a pub (Donegan's) within walking distance.

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