Bluebell Railway hosts popular Southern at War event

The Bluebell Railway in Sussex recently hosted its popular Southern at War weekend on July 18 and 19, 2026.

The immersive event successfully transformed the heritage line into a living-history tribute to the 1940s Home Front and wartime occupation. 

Event Highlights

• Living History: Re-enactment groups, including "Dad's Army" characters and French Resistance demonstrators, brought history to life. 
• Themed Stations: Stations along the line, including Horsted Keynes and Kingscote, were given unique themes to display different aspects of wartime life. 
• Vintage Displays: Visitors explored wartime encampments, vintage military vehicles, and goods wagons. 
• Aerial Displays: An aerobatic display by a Pitts Special aircraft entertained crowds above Horsted Keynes Station. 
• Period Fashion & Music: Many guests attended in authentic 1940s attire, enjoyed vintage hairstyles at Belle's Parlour, and listened to live wartime music. 
• Special Guests: The event welcomed 100-year-old World War II veteran Alf Cooley from Eastbourne as a guest of honor. 

Next Event Dates

Following the success of the weekend, organizers have already confirmed the dates for next year. The event will return to the Bluebell Railway on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 July 2027.