The barracks originally comprised a keep, adjoining stables and a parade ground completed in 1859.

[2] Following the Childers Reforms, the 32nd and 46th Regiments amalgamated to form the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry with its depot in the barracks in 1881.

[3] In 1959 the barracks became the depot of the Somerset and Cornwall Light Infantry and continued in that role until the regiment was disbanded in 1968.

Founded in 1925, the museum displays small arms, machine guns, maps, uniforms and paintings, and George Washington's Bible, captured by the 46th Regiment of Foot in 1777.

[5] Exhibits also included Harry Patch's medals[6] and Herbert Carter's Victoria Cross.