Cobbaton Combat Collection

Cobbaton Combat Collection is a privately owned military museum in Devon, in south-west England. It stands near the village of Chittlehampton, about 5.5 miles south-east of Barnstaple. The museum grew out of one collector's hobby and is now one of the most distinctive stops in North Devon for anyone interested in military history.

How did the museum begin?

The story starts in the 1980s. The family ran an agricultural contracting business, and when it was sold the proceeds went into opening a museum of military vehicles and memorabilia. Sources disagree on the exact opening year: some give 1981, others simply say the early 1980s. The museum remains in private hands, run by owners Preston and Tim Isaac.

What can you see?

The core of the collection is military vehicles, mainly British and Commonwealth. They include tanks, armoured vehicles, carriers and artillery pieces. The collection keeps growing, which is why published figures vary, from around 65 vehicles and guns to more than 70 tanks. The emphasis is on the Second World War, but visitors also find artefacts dating back to the Boer War and equipment from as late as the First Gulf War.

A separate part of the museum covers civilian life in wartime, known as the Home Front. Recreated domestic rooms show what everyday life looked like away from the fighting: kitchens, living spaces, household objects and wartime supplies. This means the museum tells the story of people as well as machines.

What is the visit like?

Visitors describe the place as crowded and quirky. Exhibits are packed closely together, which feels more like a collector's workshop than a polished gallery. Reviews praise the huge range of vehicles, tanks and weapons from past wars. It suits families, model-makers and anyone who likes to see big machines up close.

Can you bring a dog?

Dogs are welcome in the grounds around the museum, but only guide dogs are allowed inside the building that houses the collection.

Events

The grounds host an annual militaria event called the Cobbaton Clear-out, organised by the owners. It is a chance to buy or swap military memorabilia and meet other enthusiasts.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Cobbaton Combat Collection? In North Devon, near the village of Chittlehampton, around 5.5 miles south-east of Barnstaple.

Is it a state-run museum? No. It is a private museum run by the Isaac family.

What periods does the collection cover? Most exhibits come from the Second World War, but the collection stretches from the Boer War to the First Gulf War.

Should I check opening times? Yes. Hours vary through the year, so the museum's official website has the current details.

Is it suitable for children? The large vehicles and recreated wartime homes tend to interest younger visitors too, and dogs can accompany the family outside.