Time until 'Beltring 2011'

Enthusiasts the world over simply refer to it as ‘Beltring’; the location in rural Kent of the world’s largest military extravaganza.

Next to the Victorian Oast houses of its traditional home; the Hop Farm, ‘Beltring’ is not so much of a show, but an experience to be lived.

Where else can you live your chosen war, surrounded for almost a week by the sounds of armour and military vehicles; each a piece of living history?

Many display in the main arena, along with battles staged by re-enactment groups. But the War & Peace Show is not only about vehicles. Living history gives the show its unique character.

Re-enactors from all of the major wars of the 20th Century can be seen dug-in and patrolling their encampments as they live their chosen war.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the displays, the sound of 40’s entertainment can be heard day and night coming from the marquee. Here Vera Lynn and George Formby tributes entertain show weary troops, many dressed in their combat fatigues for walking-out uniforms.

Of course for many, the reason to visit Beltring is the shopping.

If you want to add something to your collection, you can buy it at Beltring. If you can’t, it probably doesn’t exist any more; such is the variety for sale at the War & Peace Show.

You can walk into a trade stand and dress yourself in the uniform of your choice. Another tent will equip you with your weapons, and a wander around the vehicle enclosure will find your armoured vehicle.

For those with deep pockets, there is simply no better place to go shopping for militaria. A tip for anyone new to the show, is to take lots of disposable cash.

At the end of the show, its time once more to return to ‘the world’ and look forward to next year’s ‘tour’.

Video of riding around Beltring in a Bren Carrier