Big Bang Weekend at Fort Nelson

Come and experience the power and might of the Big Guns being fired at Fort Nelson on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October.

This special free Big Bang Weekend will feature Second World War artillery, fired by uniformed members of the Garrison Artillery Volunteers.

A range of big guns, including field artillery plus anti-tank and anti-aircraft guns, will be fired in three dramatic sessions – at 11am, 1pm and 3pm each day.

The gun crews and artillery experts will be on hand to talk about the guns and the firing drills. There will also be a range of short Insight talks throughout the day.

The event is free, but tickets need to be booked in advance as numbers are limited.

This will be the first time since 2019 that the Big Guns have been fired at the Victorian fort.

Events Manager, Elizabeth Puddick, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have gun firing back at the Fort for this one-off special weekend.”

“Royal Armouries is home to the national collection of artillery and to be able to fire some of our exhibits and show them in action will really bring history to life.”

“The event is free, but we have limited numbers so remember to book in advance to guarantee your place – bring all the family for a really remarkable weekend.”

 Note to Editors: 

Fort Nelson was built in the 1860s to protect against a potential invasion by the French, which never materialised.

Although never used for its original purpose the Fort played a significant role in both World Wars; as barracks for troops waiting to be deployed to the front line in the First, and as an anti-aircraft ammunition supply depot during the Second.

This is a free event and pre-booked tickets include museum admission. Car parking is £3.

For more information contact:

Cathy Brooks, Communications Officer at  cathy.brooks@armouries.org.uk

01329 848 516

Visit our website at https://royalarmouries.org/venue/fort-nelson