Step Back Through Britain’s Wartime History at Chiltern Open Air Museum

On 8 and 9 August, Chiltern Open Air Museum will bring Britain’s wartime story to life with Britain at War – a multi-period re-enactment event celebrating the people, places, and events that shaped the nation’s history.

Visitors can explore living history camps, meet costumed re-enactors, watch combat and weapons displays, and experience the sights and sounds of different eras. Younger visitors can take part in the WWI Soldier School, discovering what life was like for soldiers of the First World War.

Travel through the centuries, from medieval Britain and the world of knights, healers, and warhorses, to the English Civil War with musketeers, pikemen, and artillery crews demonstrating 17th-century warfare.

The Napoleonic era will feature soldiers from Wellington’s army, sharing the experiences of Riflemen during the Peninsular War, with camp life and military firing displays.

The First World War will be remembered through trench life displays, home front stories, a WW1 Nissen hut and demonstrations including the fascinating Leach Trench Catapult.

The Second World War will bring the home front to life with ARP Wardens, Women’s Voluntary Service displays, Churchill impersonator, and a WWII Nissen Hut housing an RAF briefing room. Visitors can also explore the role of American forces in Britain before D-Day, including a recreation of the 35th Infantry Division field headquarters and a US 82nd Airborne living history camp.

Alongside the historical displays, enjoy live music across the weekend. Saturday features Shannon the Vocalist performing songs from the 1920s to the 1960s, while Sunday sees Lissie Allsopp bring the 1940s to life with Jazz, Swing, and Big Band classics.

With immersive history, live entertainment, and activities for all ages, Britain at War offers a memorable family day out.

Tickets are available at www.coam.org.uk/britain-at-war.