The Norfolk Tank Museum
The Norfolk Tank Museum near Long Stratton is a hands‑on military collection known for its impressive range of armoured vehicles and its unusually interactive approach. Founded by enthusiasts on a former Cold War site, the museum focuses on post‑1945 armour, engineering and battlefield technology, with many vehicles restored to full working order. Its most famous exhibit is the Chieftain Main Battle Tank, often demonstrated during open days, giving visitors a rare chance to see a Cold War giant in motion. Inside the hangars, you’ll find a varied line‑up of British and international armour: FV432 troop carriers, Saladin and Saracen armoured cars, Scorpion and Sabre light tanks, plus engineering vehicles and recovery equipment. The museum also preserves a working replica of the WWI Mark IV tank, built for film and educational use, offering a striking contrast to modern machines. Displays explore communications gear, uniforms, small arms and the evolution of battlefield technology. The tank‑driving experiences—available on selected days—are a major draw, allowing visitors to ride in or even drive certain vehicles under supervision. Compact but energetic, the Norfolk Tank Museum stands out for its combination of authentic armour, knowledgeable volunteers and hands‑on military heritage.
Forncett St Peter United Kingdom
The Norfolk Tank Museum sits in the quiet village of Forncett St Peter in south Norfolk, roughly halfway between Norwich and Diss and just a couple of miles from Long Stratton. The address is Station Road, Forncett St Peter, Norwich, Norfolk NR16 1HZ. This independent museum specialises in military vehicles, tanks and equipment from the twentieth century and the Cold War period, with many of the vehicles kept in working order and displays that let visitors get close to the machinery and the stories behind them. The surrounding area includes the historic churches of Forncett St Peter and Forncett St Mary, both with fine Saxon features. A short drive takes you to the market town of Diss or into Norwich, where you will find Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery and other city museums. Further afield in south Norfolk there are country houses and rural attractions, making it straightforward to combine a visit here with a look at other historic sites and a gentle exploration of the local countryside.