Step Back in Time at the Kent & East Sussex Railway’s 1940s Weekend
Commemorating 80 Years Since VE Day & 85 Years Since the Battle of Britain
The Kent & East Sussex Railway (K&ESR) will commemorate two major wartime anniversaries—80 years since VE Day and 85 years since the Battle of Britain—as it brings history to life during its beloved 1940s Weekend, returning on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 May 2025.
Tenterden and Bodiam stations will be transformed into a living time capsule, inviting visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and spirit of the 1940s. This nostalgic two-day event will feature period re-enactors, authentic wartime demonstrations, vintage traders, and live music from the era—including a special performance by Britain’s Got Talent finalists, the D-Day Darlings.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, vintage fashion lover, or simply looking for a unique family day out, the 1940s Weekend promises an unforgettable journey into the past at this award-winning heritage railway.
Re-enactors will be part of the 1940s event
Photo by Stepstone Imaging
At Tenterden Station: Step Into 1940s Britain
Begin your journey by collecting a free wartime identity card before stepping into the immersive world of the 1940s. Tenterden Station will come alive with the atmosphere of the era, thanks to professional re-enactors, live performances, and authentic period displays.
Enjoy toe-tapping sets from a D-Day Darlings trio (performance times to be confirmed on the website), alongside a host of other vintage entertainers throughout the weekend. Browse an array of vintage stalls, pop into Belle’s Parlour for a classic 1940s hairstyle, and explore a fascinating display of civilian and military vehicles.
And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the cheeky Viv the Spiv, peddling his black-market wares around the station!
Look out for Viv the Spiv!
At Bodiam Station: Wartime Spirit and Vintage Vibes
Soak up the wartime atmosphere at Bodiam Station with a stop at the NAFFI van or beer tent for some classic refreshments, all while enjoying live 1940s music performances. For those wanting to look the part, 1940s-style makeovers will also be on offer.
Costumed re-enactors, along with a striking collection of military and civilian vehicles, help bring history to life. Don’t miss the impressive Royal Navy Commando and Desert Rats encampment, featuring authentic kit, weaponry, and an array of classic jeeps—offering visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of those who served.
Have a cuppa at the NAFFI van
Photo by Heather Packham
Tickets & Further Information
Full event details can be found in the Events section of the K&ESR website: kesr.org.uk/1940s-weekend
K&ESR Freedom Tickets offer unlimited train travel throughout the day and are available at a discounted rate when booked in
advance online:
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Adults: £32
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Seniors (60+): £30
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Family Freedom Ticket: £64 (valid for up to two adults and two children, or one adult and three children)
For those wishing to soak up the atmosphere without travelling on the train, a limited number of platform-only tickets will be available on the day:
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Tenterden Station: £8 per adult
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Bodiam Station: £5 per adult
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Children: £1 at both stations
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Special Evacuation Day – Monday 19 May 2025
The railway will also host a unique educational experience the day after the public event, welcoming groups of local school children for Evacuation Day. This immersive event will include costumed re-enactors and actual wartime evacuees, who will share their personal stories aboard the train—offering a powerful and authentic insight into the experience of being evacuated to the countryside during the Blitz.