Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry Regimental Museum Trust

The Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry Regimental Museum Trust, registered with charity number 273329, is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry regiments. The museum, which was formed in 1966, aims to conserve the historical property of the regiment, including pictures and silver, following the reduction of the regiment's size during that period[4].

History of the Regiment

The history of the Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry dates back to 1794 when the Kent Yeomanry was formed by part-time volunteers to defend against a potential French invasion. Over the centuries, the regiment evolved and was involved in various significant conflicts, including the Boer War and the two World Wars[1][3]. The museum illustrates this rich history, detailing the regiment's participation in these pivotal events.

The Museum

The museum, which opened its current iteration in 2015, is designed to appeal to visitors of all ages. It features extensive displays of uniforms, medals, weaponry, and other militaria. Interactive elements include four touch screens that provide detailed life stories of regiment members and showcase school projects. Physical reconstructions highlight key aspects of military life, such as a World War I Gallipoli trench and the interior of a World War II Cromwell tank turret[1][5]. Outside the museum, a Saladin armoured car and a 25-pounder field gun are on display.

Access and Community Engagement

The museum is located within the grounds of Hever Castle and is included in the standard admission ticket to the castle. Special discounts are available for current and former military personnel and their families, upon proof of service[1]. The museum also offers free access outside peak season for those who do not visit the rest of the castle grounds[1].

Outreach and Community

The museum supports educational initiatives by integrating school projects into its exhibits. Additionally, it hosts interactive experiences that cater to younger visitors, including a cartoon guide named Noball the desert fox[1]. The museum's commitment to engaging the broader community reflects its role as a cultural and historical resource.

Accreditation and Membership

The museum is fully accredited by the MLA (Museums, Libraries and Archives) and is a member of both the Association of Independent Museums and the Kent Museums Group[1]. This accreditation and membership underscore the museum's standing as a reputable institution within the museum community.

[1] https://www.ksymuseum.org.uk/KSYM [2] https://www.ksymuseum.org.uk [3] https://www.armymuseums.org.uk/listing/kent-sharpshooters-yeomanry-museum/ [4] https://ageofrevolution.org/venues/kent-and-sharpshooters-yeomanry-museum-trust/ [5] https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g503908-d8629673-Reviews-Kent_and_Sharpshooters_Yeomanry_Museum-Hever_Sevenoaks_District_Kent_England.html