Army Reserve
The Army Reserve is the largest of the UK’s Reserve Forces and plays a vital role in supporting the Regular Army both in the UK and on operations overseas. Formerly known as the Territorial Army, today’s Army Reserve is fully integrated into the wider Army structure, with Reservists often working directly alongside Regular soldiers.
Across the South West, local Reserve units offer part-time service opportunities for individuals from all walks of life, whether you’re looking to learn new skills, serve your community, or take on new challenges. Some Reservists bring specialist expertise, such as in medicine, engineering, or communications, while others train as infantry or support roles within Army units.
Reservists typically train one evening a week, one weekend a month, and commit to an annual training camp. In return, you’ll receive military and civilian qualifications, leadership development, travel opportunities, and the same pay rates as your Regular counterparts, plus an annual, tax-free bonus.
To join, you’ll generally need to be aged between 18 and 43 (48 for officers), physically fit, and a UK, Commonwealth, or Republic of Ireland citizen who has lived in the UK for the past five years. Some roles may have higher age limits.
The South West is home to a wide range of Army Reserve units offering diverse roles across combat, medical, engineering, logistics, and specialist support. Key centres are located in cities such as Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, Gloucester, Poole, Bath, Truro, and Yeovil, with sub-units in surrounding towns. Units in the region include:
- 6th Battalion The Rifles (6 RIFLES) – Infantry battalion with companies based in Exeter, Truro, Plymouth, and Gloucester.
- 165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC – Specialist logistics and port operations, with a presence in Plymouth.
- 243 (Wessex) Multi-roled Medical Regiment – Army Medical Services unit, with detachments in Plymouth, Bath, and Gloucester.
- 101 Battalion REME – Engineering and equipment support, including units in Keynsham and other locations.
- Royal Wessex Yeomanry – Armoured reconnaissance regiment, with squadrons in Cirencester and Dorset.
- 39th Signal Regiment – Work alongside regular counterparts to provide information and communication support to military operations and have units in Bath and Bristol.
Opportunities
Reservists in the South West gain access to world-class training, adventurous activities, and career development while serving part-time. Whether joining for personal challenge, skill development, or a pathway to a Regular Army career, the Army Reserve offers a flexible and rewarding route into military service close to home.