Southern at War

Tickets now available
19th & 20th July
Throughout the railway

This highly anticipated event will transport you back in time, commemorating the monumental 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day.

You won’t want to miss out on a weekend filled with educational displays and re-enactors, classic and military vehicles, aircrafts and artifacts, weapons displays, and more. Get into the spirit of the occasion by dressing up in your finest period clothing and immersing yourself in the 1940s once again.

Here’s a selection of just some of the groups and re-enactors that will be taking part in this year’s event:

  • 1FJD Teufal Reenactment Group
  • 11 Group
  • Blackout Buddies
  • Fallschirmjager Kampfgruppe
  • The Harvey Buffs
  • Men of Arnhem
  • Mr & Mrs 1940s
  • Schutzen Regiment 104
  • Squadron X RAF LHG
  • War Bikes
  • Simply Spitfire
  • Hands on History
  • Heroes with Grimy Faces
  • Womens Home Defence
  • Belles Parlour
  • Stephanie Belle
  • Viv The SPIV
  • Time Travel Fashion Press
  • Kent Desert Rats
  • Essentially Forties
  • South Coast Roamin
  • Sparkie & Sprite
  • Radar Room
  • War and Police
  • Horticultural Machinery
  • Home Counties Living History
  • Forty Fivers Club
  • Cadets

The Bluebell Railway, nestled in the heart of the picturesque English countryside, offers a unique and immersive experience with its “Southern at War” event. This special occasion is a tribute to the wartime efforts and history of the Southern Railway during World War II, providing visitors with a chance to step back in time and experience the spirit of the 1940s.

A journey through history

The “Southern at War” event is a celebration of the bravery and resilience displayed during the war years. The Bluebell Railway transforms into a living history museum, complete with period-appropriate decorations, vintage trains, and costumed reenactors. This immersive experience allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of life on the home front during the war.

Supermarine Spitfire to soar once more at Southern at War 2025!

We’re thrilled to announce that The Spitfire Academy will be returning to our 1940s-themed Southern at War weekend in July with a spectacular flying display on both days (subject to availability and weather conditions on the day).

Experience the roar of this iconic aircraft as it takes to the skies above Bluebell Railway, adding even more to a weekend packed with wartime spirit, vintage vehicles, live music, re-enactments and more.

2025 Southern at War Timetable

19th & 20th July

Authentic experiences

  • Steam Train Rides: Enjoy a ride on one of the beautifully restored steam locomotives, offering a glimpse into the rail travel of the past.
  • Historical Displays: Explore exhibits showcasing wartime memorabilia, including uniforms, equipment, and stories from those who lived through the era.
  • Re-enactments: Watch live re-enactments that depict various scenes from the wartime period, from military operations to civilian life, including drills and air raid demonstrations, and a jolly good sing-a-long in the subway.

Activities and Entertainment

The event is not only educational but also entertaining, with a range of activities designed to engage visitors of all ages:

Live Music and Dancing: Experience the sounds of the 1940s with live bands playing swing and jazz music. Dance along to classic tunes and feel the rhythm of the era.

Vintage Vehicles: Admire a collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and military vehicles that played a crucial role during the war.

Why not enhance your experience by dressing in 1940s attire. Many guests choose to embrace the theme, adding to the authenticity of the event. There’s a hair stylist at Belle’s Parlour who can help you top off your costume!