Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regimental Museum

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The story of Maidstone’s local regiment

Located within Maidstone Museum, the Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regimental Museum traces the history of the local regiment from its origins in 1756 to its amalgamation in 1961.

Formed from the 50th and 97th Regiments of Foot, the regiment served in major campaigns across the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as during the First and Second World Wars. Over time, it developed a reputation as a dependable and disciplined fighting force.

What you’ll see

The gallery includes a wide range of objects that reflect the regiment’s history and service, including:

  • Medals and personal items
  • Uniforms and equipment
  • Regimental artefacts such as the Sutlej Gun
  • Four Victoria Crosses awarded to members of the regiment

The museum focuses on the people behind the objects—sharing personal stories of those who served, both in wartime and in everyday regimental life. This makes the gallery accessible to a wide audience, from those with a direct connection to the regiment to visitors with a general interest in military history.

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Research and family history

The museum supports research into the Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment, particularly for family history enquiries.

Staff and volunteers can assist with research enquiries where possible, using the museum’s collections and knowledge of the regiment.

  • Research enquiries are charged at £20 per request
  • Work will begin once payment has been received
  • While every effort is made to locate relevant information, results cannot be guaranteed

Due to the volume of enquiries, please allow up to 12 weeks for a response.

It’s important to note that many official service records are not held by the museum:

  • Soldiers discharged before 1920/21: The National Archives, Kew
  • Soldiers discharged after this date: Army Personnel Centre
  • Many regimental documents: Kent History and Library Centre

The museum can help guide you, but in many cases you may need to contact these organisations directly.

  • Research is handled remotely; drop-in enquiries are not available without an appointment
  • The museum is unable to accept unsolicited object donations
Contact us about research
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Plan your visit

The Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regimental Museum is located within Maidstone Museum. For opening times, directions, and visitor information, please visit the main planning page.

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