The museum is located within a Grade II listed Victorian fire station.
Thetford was chosen as the primary filming location for Walmington-on-Sea due to its period architecture.
The museum holds a permanent exhibit of original scripts donated by the show's creators.
It houses one of the few surviving original prop uniforms from the series.
The museum offers guided 'Dad's Army' walking tours that cover specific filming sites around Thetford.
Many local residents of Thetford appeared as extras in the show's outdoor scenes.
The Dad's Army Museum in Thetford preserves the legacy of the BBC's iconic 1970s television comedy series, which was largely filmed on location in the town. Housed in the Old Fire Station, the museum features an extensive collection of original props, scripts, and costumes used by the cast. It maintains a replica of Captain Mainwaring’s office, allowing visitors to step into the fictional world of the Walmington-on-Sea Home Guard. The venue also showcases period-appropriate vehicles, including a restored 1935 Thornycroft fire engine. The museum is volunteer-run and serves as a focal point for the town's historical connection to the show's production. Visitors can view a collection of photographs taken during the filming process throughout the local Norfolk landscape. The facility provides insight into both the television show and the historical context of the British Home Guard during World War II.
Inside the replica Captain Mainwaring's office display.
Check the official website for seasonal operating dates as it is primarily volunteer-run.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of the town to see the filming locations in person.
Visit the nearby Captain Mainwaring statue in the town center for a photo opportunity.
Do not assume the museum is open daily throughout the entire year, as operating hours vary by season.
The museum is seasonal; it typically operates from spring through late autumn and is generally closed during the winter months.
