The Arctic Convoys were Merchant Navy ships that were escorted by Royal Navy, Royal Canadian Navy, and United States Navy warships and aircover that transported millions of tons of supplies and munitions from the UK to Arkhangelsk and Murmansk in the Soviet Union through the Arctic waters.

Their aim was to aid in their defence of the Eastern Front from 1941 – 1945 during the Second World War.

Under constant threat from U-boats, surface ships, aircraft and horrific weather, these brave souls became the forgotten heroes of the Second World War. With more than 40 countries and representatives of a dozen fleets taking part, the Arctic Convoys remain an enduring symbol of shared history and heroic cooperation in the joint fight for freedom.

This exhibition has been produced in partnership with the British Council, Culture and Education Section of the British Embassy in Moscow and the Northern Maritime Museum in Arkhangelsk to mark the 80th anniversary of the first Arctic Convoy to the Soviet Union, which sailed from Liverpool to Arkhangelsk in 1941.

The exhibition displays the story and importance of the Arctic Convoys, and highlights the historical connections and shared history of Russia and the UK.