Imperial War Museum

Instantly recognisable from the two massive warship guns (great photo opportunity) outside the front entrance this is an impressive building both outside and in. Many of the exciting experiences are to be found in the basement - try The Children's War which is on until April 2008 and is an excellent opportunity for us more mature adults to walk around saying 'we used to have one of those' to the young people! You're allowed to clamber through a Second World War aircraft on the ground floor, stroke a tank and gaze up at the Spitfire and other planes hung from the ceiling.

Also on the ground floor is the shop with a few pocket money goodies, and if you ask nicely at the information desk you should be able to get some worksheets to help you explore the museum and make sure you don't miss anything.

The best way in for pre-booked groups (entry is free so no financial benefit, but read on) is through the schools' entry on the right hand side. It's also nearer where the bus drops you off! Inside you don't get your bags searched this way, but you do get a large 'laundry basket' to put all your group's bags into, and then the lunch room is just up the stairs (despite it being half term we had this to ourselves for our sandwiches).

There are two or three ways to get to the IWM. From Waterloo station you can walk down to the museum (about 15 minutes), or catch a 59 bus from Waterloo Road. After about 5 minutes, as soon as you cross Lambeth Road traffic lights, see the museum on the left and a motorbike shop ahead, get off (it's a request stop!) We came back on the little C10 bus which goes to Victoria station, from whence of course you can move on to Icando just around the corner! Well worth a visit, especially if you get a chance to visit by yourself and plan ahead for the young people. Meanwhile see their website.

Webmaster May 2007

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