1940s Steam Railways at War

Steam railways, such as the Severn Valley Railway, and others run by enthusiasts are not only nostalgic, but are a great location for 1940s themed events.

The sights, sounds and smells of a steam railway form the perfect backdrop for reenactors and 1940s enthusiasts.

Platforms fill with soldiers, sailors and airmen while children carry Gask Masks in boxes as they are evactuated to the countryside.

'Railway at war' events are a great way for all the family to enjoy British Heritage during our 'Finest Hour'.

If you`re in luck, Mr Churchill himself may make an appearance. What a great way to bring your children`s history lessons to life.......

A typical 1940s steam railway event

All heritage railways are different, with ther own charm and character - and so are the events.

Typically, both civilian and military reenactors enjoy discussing the period with visitors while themselves travelling between the various stations of the line, each dressed in 1940s memorobilia.

Occasionally there can be heard the air-raid sirens, taking over from the 40's sounds of the Andrews Sisters or Glen Miller; often being performed live.

British life in the 1940s wouldn`t have been the same were it not for the spivs, illegally selling Blackmarket goods. Watch out at the station for these unscrupulous characters and report them to the military if you see them.....

Some events have fly pasts by WW2 aircraft such as the Spitfire.......and some events feature full-scale battles as Nazi forces try to take over a small piece of Britain; all in front of the crowd.

What better way is there to live the period than to visit a 'Railway at war' event?