Bovington’s Tank Museum set to reopen in May but sad it’s not sooner

The Tank Museum says it’s disappointed not to be opening in April 2021 alongside non-essential shops but, as long as the Prime Minister’s roadmap stays on track, it’s gearing up to reopen in May 2021 with a fully redeveloped World War Two exhibition hall. 

Like all other venues, the Tank Museum is currently closed due to Covid restrictions, and several of its top events such as Tankfest have been postponed as a result.

Advertisement 

However, under the government’s route out of lockdown, the museum should be able to reopen its doors on Monday 17th May 2021 assuming coronavirus cases remain under control.

Tanks at the Tank Museum
The Tank Museum

Disappointment at opening date

The Tank Museum has expressed its disappointment at the May opening date, having hoped to open during the second phase of lockdown easing in April. This is when non-essential shops are due to reopen.

Museum spokesperson, Nik Wyness said:

“As there had been no evidence of Covid transmission at any museum or indoor attraction, we would have preferred to open our doors much sooner.

“But public health comes first, and nobody wants to see a resurgence in the virus or a return to lockdown.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely, but will be prepared to open our doors with all our Covid Safe controls in place, the very day we have permission to do so.

“I would like to thank supporters for their continued interest, backing and loyalty during a challenging 12 months. We can’t wait to welcome you back again to The Tank Museum.”

WWII Tanks
The Tank Museum

Upcoming attractions

Among the attractions for visitors once lockdown is over, is the World War Two: War Stories exhibition, which will be fully installed by the time of reopening.

The first part of this exhibition opened when the first lockdown was eased last summer, featuring the story of the Royal Armoured Corps between 1939 and 1945. The exhibition is expected to feature even more when the museum reopens, including fresh mannequins and models.

Some of the museum’s big events – which were postponed due to lockdown – are also set to take place.

This includes the chance to see the Tiger 131 tank in action at Tiger Day on 24th July 2021 as well as the tank extravaganza of Tankfest between 17th and 20th September 2021.

Further information

  • To find out more about the reopening and upcoming events at the Tank Museum, visit its website here.

Share this story

Contact us

Do you have anything to add to this story?

We like to keep everything up-to-date, so if you know more, please help us by getting in touch.

Advertisement 

Top stories

Child injured in dog attack at Swanage pub Police officers and the air ambulance were all called to help after a child was injured in an incident involving a dog in a pub garden in Swanage. 1 month ago Historic Studland home goes on the market for £5 million 3 weeks ago Paddle steamer returns to Swanage after appeal keeps her afloat 3 weeks ago Surrey couple ditch corporate life for Dorset safari venture 2 days ago Corfe Castle May Fair returns after three year absence 6 days ago

Most recent

Back with a splash – Swanage Fish Festival returns for 2023 Swanage Fish Festival is all set to make a fintastic return to the town after a three year absence - and hopes to be bigger and better than before. 16 hours ago Surrey couple ditch corporate life for Dorset safari venture 2 days ago Swanage Fire Station work overnight to tackle Dorset wildfire 3 days ago Three men arrested after fight in Wareham pub 4 days ago Top artistic talent goes on display across Purbeck 5 days ago