The Keep Military Museum

Closure Update – 2026

It has now been 15 months since The Keep Military Museum had to unexpectedly close its doors. Since our last update, some progress has been made with our landlord, the Ministry of Defence.

Due to the cost involved with replacing the roof of The Keep, alternative solutions have been explored by the landlord and the museum charity. Consequently, The Dorchester Keep Military Museum Trust have now entered negotiations with the Ministry of Defence, to transfer ownership of the Keep building directly to the charity. We still have some way to go before this can be achieved, and nothing is yet set in stone. If the transfer goes ahead, time will still be needed to complete the necessary repairs to the building, and to redevelop the museum for the future.

We are therefore unable to provide an exact re-opening date for the museum, but due to the work required, it will remain closed throughout 2026. Please rest assured that all is being done to ensure the future of the museum and the safety of its collection. In the interim, museum staff and volunteers will continue with the resilience project, which has been funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, made possible thanks to National Lottery players.

Further updates will be made, as more information becomes available.