Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland

The Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland sits inside the 14th-century Abbot’s Tower at Alnwick Castle. The castle itself overlooks the River Aln and the town of Alnwick in Northumberland. The museum traces the Fusiliers from their founding in 1674 to today. It moved from Fenham Barracks in Newcastle in 1970 after receiving National Lottery funds. A major redevelopment between 2014 and 2017 refreshed the displays. The building is an independent charity run by volunteers and former soldiers. The collection includes uniforms, weapons, medals and personal letters from soldiers. Among the items is the nameplate from the locomotive ‘Private E Sykes VC’. The museum holds five Victoria Crosses awarded to Fusiliers in the 19th and 20th centuries. These medals belonged to men who served in the Indian Rebellion and the First World War. The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers formed in 1968 from four regiments, so the museum links to other Fusilier museums across the country. Visitors walk through rooms in the old tower to see the exhibits. Displays show how soldiers lived and fought through letters, diaries and drawings. Photographs and personal possessions bring their stories to life. The Victoria Crosses are displayed in a quiet section near the centre of the tower. Outside, the castle grounds and river views add to the visit. The museum offers a clear picture of the Fusiliers’ long service and sacrifice.