Wartime Britain: VE Day 80

The REME Museum’s annual 1940s re-enactment and living history event, Wartime Britain, promises to be an amazing day out exploring the equipment, military life and home front culture experienced by many during World War II. Every year we add something bigger and better, with more re-enactment groups and exciting performances.

This year, get ready to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day in style, featuring:1940s costume and decoration

• Re-enactors and living history groups telling the stories of those who lived, served and fought in WW2
• WW2-era vehicles from the Museum’s Reserve Vehicle Collection, private collectors and enthusiasts around the country
• ‘Live’ demonstrations of WW2 equipment, including firearms, munitions and more (subject to groups attending and availability of equipment) – see the slideshow below for examples of previous years’ demonstrations
• 1940s Swing and Big Band dance performances
• Musical performances with wartime era music, creating a VE Day party atmosphere on our grounds!
  Full details including details of performers and re-enactors will be available on our website. Please check there for any changes.
• Refreshments will be available to purchase from Crown’s Café, which will only be open to visitors with a ticket to the event.
• Free parking will be available in our large car park, Blue Badge spaces must still on a first-come-first-served basis. We ask that you please reserve a parking space if you need one in advance! Once the parking spaces are gone, they’re gone! If you can, please consider travelling by alternative means.
• Dogs are welcome on the Museum grounds but are not allowed inside the building, with the exception of assistance dogs. Please be aware that during our Wartime Britain event, there may be loud noises from ‘live’-firing of firearms which could scare dogs visiting. Check our schedule and event map on the day to make preparations for these times.
  If you have any further questions about visiting us or the event, please check our FAQs and Accessibility information or contact us.
  Pricing: Adult £15, Child £7.50. Family tickets and REME Gold Card discounts will also be available. Annual passes apply.