We are delighted to introduce this new location, The Royal Engineers Museum.
Remember that marvellous movie “Zulu” that launched the career of Michael Caine? That isolated mission station at Rorke’s Drift was held by a Royal Engineers officer, Lt. John Chard (played by Stanley Baker) who had gone to build a bridge and for his actions on that day was awarded the Victoria Cross, which Baker later owned.
The Royal Engineers Museum, sited in the impressive Ravelin Building built in 1905, tells the fascinating story of Britain’s combat engineers from 1066 to the present day. The Museum’s designated outstanding collection has something for everyone; medals, uniforms, keepsakes, weapons and critical equipment, including the map used by Wellington at the Battle of Waterloo. Helping the British Army live, move and fight as they travelled the world with the 19th century Imperial Army collecting many unique artefacts. For instance, the court dress presented to General Charles Gordon for his military service to the Chinese Imperial Authorities in the 1860s or the step fragment from his Palace in Khartoum where he is said to have died – depicted by Charlton Heston in the movie Khartoum in 1966.
The First and Second World War galleries give visitors a feel for life during the more gruelling parts of the 20th century. The grim reality of life is ably depicted in the trenches of the Great War, particularly for the RE tunnellers. The many theatres traversed in the struggle against the Axis powers in the Second World War are contrasted with life on the home front, including the constant threat posed by the devastating V2 rocket shown in the central courtyard. This sizeable area displays the Royal Engineers conflicts from the Cold War including a 15 ton combat engineer tractor dropped by parachute in the jungles of Borneo right up to a Harrier GR3 jump-jet as used in the Falklands conflict.
The host of equipment on display shows how the Corps carry out their duties around the world from bridge building to bomb disposal and the Medal Rooms tell the individual stories of their most decorated sappers.
A great backdrop for many types of period and military drama The Royal Engineers Museum can also be used as a Production HQ when filming in Kent as there is plenty of room for Unit Vehicles.
In addition, a wealth of Military Advice is available to help ensure historical accuracy for your production.
Finally, the The Royal Engineers Museum has the space and facilities to provide excellent hospitality making it the perfect venue for your End of Shoot Party!
For all filming enquiries and to organise a recce please contact: Matt Thomas | email: M.Thomas@re-museum.co.uk | Tel: 01634 406035
Royal Engineers Museum, Brompton Barracks, CHATHAM, Kent, ME4 4UG | www.re-museum.co.uk