Southern at War
Step back into the 1940s for one unforgettable weekend as the Bluebell Railway proudly presents the return of its flagship living-history event, Southern at War: Home Front & Occupation.
Set in the heart of the Sussex countryside, this immersive weekend brings the sights, sounds and spirit of wartime Britain vividly to life. Steam trains don’t just take you from station to station — they carry you into a world where the railway was a lifeline, moving troops, supplies and evacuees across a nation at war.
This isn’t just a re-enactment. It’s history you can walk through, listen to, dance to — and feel.
Horsted Keynes – Life on Britain’s Home Front
Lively, determined, and full of community spirit, Horsted Keynes captures the heart of wartime Britain. Discover what everyday life was like under rationing, evacuation and air-raid precautions, and how people pulled together when it mattered most.
- Home Front living-history displays
- A bustling YMCA wartime canteen
- Radar Room and air-defence interpretation
- 1940s-styled shops, and station scenes
- Steam trains arriving and departing in full wartime atmosphere
Kingscote – Occupied Europe
A short journey by steam transports you into a very different reality. At Kingscote, the mood shifts to the tense, controlled atmosphere of life under German occupation.
- German occupation forces and military vehicles
- French Resistance displays and interpretation
- Railway control, curfews and identity checks
- Thought-provoking living-history scenes and education
This area is presented carefully and respectfully, offering insight into the realities faced by civilians across occupied Europe, and the quiet courage of those who resisted.
Steam trains at the heart of the story
Throughout the weekend, beautifully restored steam locomotives operate across the line, linking the Home Front and Occupied Europe experiences.
- Travel in vintage carriages behind locomotives evocative of the wartime years
- Period announcements and onboard atmosphere
- Soldiers, evacuees, civilians and railway staff bringing each journey to life
The railway isn’t just the backdrop — it’s part of the story.
Aviation & military icons
Few sights stir the emotions like a Spitfire — and Southern at War 2026 features unforgettable encounters both on the ground and in the sky:
- A Spitfire on static display, up close to one of Britain’s most iconic aircraft
- Aerobatic Spitfire flying displays on both days (weather permitting)
Across the railway you’ll also find:
- Vintage cars, motorcycles and military vehicles
- Weapons, aircraft artefacts and engineering displays
- Military drills and live re-enactments showcasing life on active service
Music, dancing & wartime entertainment
War wasn’t only hardship — it was also about keeping spirits up.
- Live 1940s performers
- ENSA-style entertainment and sing-alongs
- Swing, jive and social dancing for all ages
Whether you’re a confident dancer or just soaking up the atmosphere, this is a weekend full of rhythm, nostalgia and joy.
Visitors of all ages are encouraged to dress in 1940s attire and become part of the living history themselves — whether that’s uniform, utility clothing or your best wartime fashion. To help complete the look, Belle’s Parlour will once again be open, with a hairstylist on hand to give authentic 1940s hairdos and finishing touches.
Education, immersion & family-friendly history
Southern at War offers something for everyone:
- Living-history groups and interactive demonstrations
- Talks, displays and personal wartime stories
- Children’s activities and hands-on history
- A thoughtful balance of education, entertainment and reflection
Dress for the decade, bring your dancing shoes, and join us at the Bluebell Railway for a weekend where history isn’t behind glass — it surrounds you.
Further details – schedules, timetables & groups involved – to follow soon, so check back here and on our socials to find out more!
