Tank Museum Keeps Christmas Tradition Alive

The arrival of Santa in a tank may appear unusual for some, but for British tank regiments and their local communities it’s a tradition which dates back around 100 years. 

The Tank Museum’s annual ‘A Dorset Christmas’ event is the perfect opportunity to pick up some unique hand-made Christmas gifts as well as enjoy festive food and entertainment. Of course, no Christmas event for families is complete without a visit from Father Christmas, who arrives in style at the Museum – in an armoured vehicle.

James Donaldson, Historian at The Tank Museum said:

“The appearance of Santa in a tank isn’t unique to The Tank Museum; it’s a long-standing tradition around the world in communities with links to British armoured units.

“It is important to us to continue this Christmas tradition, both to represent our local community at Bovington Camp – an active military base, and to preserve this piece of history as a museum representing the Royal Tank Regiment and the Royal Armoured Corps.” 

A Dorset Christmas takes place at The Tank Museum in Bovington, Dorset, on the weekend of 15 – 16 November 2025. Visit the Museum’s website to find out more and book your tickets. tankmuseum.org