The countdown is on to one of the Severn Valley Railway’s most popular events, with the first of its Step Back to the 1940s weekends now just around the corner.
Taking place across two consecutive weekends, on 27–28 June and 4–5 July, the much-loved event will once again transform the length of the heritage railway into a vibrant celebration of wartime Britain, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and stories of the 1940s.
Timetables for both event weekends are now available on the SVR website, allowing visitors to plan their day and make the most of the extensive programme of entertainment, displays and activities taking place across the line.
Travelling by heritage steam train between stations, visitors will discover a host of attractions inspired by life on the wartime home front. From military vehicles and living history displays to live music, costumed re-enactors and vintage traders, every station will offer its own unique glimpse into the era.
At Kidderminster, visitors can explore detailed wartime scenes including an ARP post and Anderson shelter, alongside a striking Hellcat tank and a collection of vintage vehicles. Bewdley will celebrate the spirit of ‘holidays at home’ with a wartime orchard display, appearances inspired by Laurel and Hardy and a tribute to George Formby.
Arley will combine poignant remembrance with family entertainment, featuring a silhouette walk honouring those who lost their lives during the conflict, as well as Punch and Judy performances and a recreated military hospital train. Highley and The Engine House will host military displays, a wartime funfair, dance lessons and a vintage marketplace, while Hampton Loade and Bridgnorth will be filled with period atmosphere, from patrolling Military Police to musical performances and traditional traders.
Throughout the event, visitors can expect to encounter soldiers, civilians and wartime officials, along with appearances by Winston Churchill and Field Marshal Montgomery. Identity card inspections, black market spivs and authentic re-enactments will help bring the era vividly to life.
The celebrations continue into the evening on Saturday 28 June and Saturday 5 July with the ever-popular 1940s Band Show concerts at Kidderminster station. Starting at 7pm, the performances will feature music associated with the wartime years, including favourites made famous by Glenn Miller and The Andrews Sisters, before concluding with a patriotic singalong. A dedicated steam-hauled train will operate from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster for concert-goers.
Lewis Maddox, the Severn Valley Railway’s visitor engagement manager, said:
“Step Back to the 1940s remains one of the highlights of our calendar each year, and it’s not hard to understand its enduring appeal. From the moment visitors step through the gates, they are immersed in the atmosphere of wartime Britain, surrounded by authentic sights, sounds and experiences. With captivating displays, outstanding live performances and opportunities to meet knowledgeable re-enactors, the event offers something to engage visitors of all ages. It’s a unique and memorable journey into the past that vividly showcases history in an entertaining and meaningful way.”
Blending history, nostalgia and family entertainment, the Step Back to the 1940s weekends offer a memorable day out for visitors of all ages and are expected to attract thousands of people from across the region and beyond.
There’s more information, timetables and tickets at svr.co.uk.