Keep Military Museum

KMM expects to remain closed for the rest of 2025 for building works

‘The Museum’s landlord (the Ministry of Defence) has been planning for some time to repair or replace The Keep’s roof, setting aside a lot of money to do so. While scoping the project the builders found that the roof may not be safe. As a result, the Museum closed on 1 October and will remain so until work is done to make it safe. We expect to be closed for the whole of 2025. Meanwhile, the staff are working in the Army Reserve Centre on Poundbury Road.




The Keep is the Military Museum of Devon and Dorset. Housed in an extraordinary castle-like building, the collection spans 300 years of history over 4 floors. You can walk through a World War One trench, try on uniforms and discover the amazing stories behind the Museum objects, at the end of your visit don’t forget to go onto the roof for amazing views of Dorchester!

We are a family friendly Museum and we attract all ages, we are fully accessible with a lift to every floor (apart from the roof), we encourage people to take photographs and share their visit with us. Due to the nature of our collection only Assistance Dogs are allowed in the building.

We have a small on-site car park which is free of charge for visitors to use. If you are a UK Taxpayer you can Gift Aid your admission and enjoy unlimited free entry for a whole year at no extra cost!

Opening times: Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 17:00

Admission Charges:
Adult £7.00
Over 60 £5.50
Child 5-16 years* £2.50
Family (2 adults & up to 3 children) £15.00
Full-Time Student (with valid ID) £4.00
Under 5s Free
Keep Friends Free
D&D Regimental Association/Serving Members of The Rifles/ MOD 90 holders Free