Pictures of Aldershot

About Aldershot

This is a town whose history will be forever linked to that of the British Army.

A century and a half or so ago, Aldershot was just a quiet village at the centre of beautiful heathland countryside when the War Department identified it as the ideal location in which to build a camp for the Army. The site was mainly chosen for the fact that it was in close proximity to both London and Portsmouth. There is little doubt that the building of what was to become the home of the British Army did a great deal for the future prosperity of Aldershot.

Soldiers were first housed in tents and then in wooden huts, until in the 1890's a purpose built barracks was constructed. This Victorian camp was to be demolished in the changes of the 1960's

For anyone interested in the history of the British Armed Forces a visit to this town is a must. Here you will find Museums dedicted to the history and stirring deeds of almost every regiment, including; the army engineers, nursing and medical corps and the airborne forces. The Royal Army Dental Corps Museum shows dental instruments and records dating from 1914 to the present day. In all museums the life of each regiment is represented by uniforms, flags, medals and letters. There are relics from the time of Florence Nightingale and tributes to the only man to win the Victoria Cross twice, Lt.Col. Martin-Leake.

To the rear of the Garrison of All Saints, stands a great equestrian statue commemorating the Ist Duke of Wellington. It is a giant bronze of the Duke sitting on his horse Copenhagen and it is said that this statue once stood in London.

This pleasant town has a fascinating history and there are many beautiful buildings to be seen. In one part of the town there is a family business that dates back to 1725, it is one of the oldest in the town and on the third floor a museum tells the story of the family and a little of the history of the town.

Interestingly, in the foyer of Princes Hall there is a display dedicated to the Actor and Comedian, Arthur English who was made an Honoury Freeman of the Borough of Rushmoor.

The Heros Shrine, dedicated to the dead of the Second World War stands in the towns' pretty Manor Park.

Aldershot provides much that is interesting for the visitor. It has excellent shopping facilities and there are plenty of pubs and inns that serve good food and a splendid pint of beer. For those whose interest lies in the fortunes of the Armed Services and the birthplace of Aviation, a visit to this town is a richly rewarding experience.