Recreating the 1940s experience of life on the Home Front during World War Two

We invite you to visit for our tenth Railway at War event at Chapel Brampton as we travel back in time to 1940s wartime Britain. Seventy years ago the tide of the war was beginning to turn in our favour.

The railways played a very important part in World War II and the Railway at War event remembers the courage, hardships and endurance of our parents, grandparents and even great grandparents on the Home Front.

Members of the general public are encouraged to attend the event in period dress and many of our visitors wear 1940s civilian clothing or military uniform. Don't forget to bring your gas mask!

Here are a few more essential items:-

The Local Defence Volunteers, later the Home Guard, were formed on 14th May 1940 following a wireless broadcast by the Minister of War, Anthony Eden.

The local platoon will be carrying out documentation and identity checks on visitors, together with searches for enemy invaders. They will also be mounting a regular guard on the vehicles and munitions stored at the station.

Local schools and youth organisations are encouraged to bring parties of children dressed as evacuees during the weekend.

There will be opportunities to talk to veterans and re-enactors to find out what life was really like during the dark days of World War II.

1940s music and live entertainment will add to the atmosphere each day. We are pleased to welcome the Blitz Sisters and Paul Casper as George Formby back again this year.

There will be a number of  civilian and military  vintage vehicles on site during the event. There will also be several displays by re-enactor groups and exhibitors which take place throughout the weekend.