From 1941-46, Hughenden was home to a secret mapmaking operation for nearby Bomber Command HQ. Step back in time and experience the drama of the Second World War in our 1940s event with living history re-enactments, military and civilian displays, food, music and dancing from the era.

Keep calm and have a splendid day! 

There’s a packed programme of exhibits, demonstrations and performances every day from 10am until 5pm, including:

• Live music from the period with The Polka Dots, Paul Marsden and Fiona Harrison
• A renactment skirmish between British and German infantry across the parkland
• Civilian and military period vehicles on display for a close up view
• Living History encampments, see a Russian camp, a WW2 medical tent, Home Front Defenders and the MIlitary police
• Ruby's Vintage Tent with a selection of stalls featuring original clothing and jewellery (please bring cash if you'd like to shop there)

The highlight of the weekend is a flypast on both days by the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. (Subject to weather conditions.)

You can have a go at a Home Guard drill with the Civil Defenders, enjoy an old fashioned Punch and Judy show or discover more about Hughenden’s secret war-time history and join one of the ‘Hillside’ talks with our expert volunteer guides.

Eat for victory!

Hot and cold meals along with homemade cakes and tray bakes will be available in the Stableyard Café, in Dizzy’s Tearoom you can treat yourself to a traditional cream tea or enjoy a brew with a view from our '40s tea tent on the parterre.

If you’re bringing a picnic, Hughenden's apple orchard has tables and benches and there’s plenty of space to put out a blanket under the trees for your own vintage-inspired spread.

Nostalgic mementos

There'll also be a vintage fair to explore with craft stalls selling handmade gifts, cards, vintage clothing and jewellery.  In the Stableyard Shop a selection of historic memorabilia will be on sale including books and music from the era. And in celebration of our 1940s weekend Chiltern Brewery has crafted a limited edition Battle of Britain ale for you to buy.

Special notes

• Normal visit admission applies (no charge for National Trust members)
• Free car parking is available on site in the parkland. There is a steep hill to climb from the parking to the event, if you require accessible parking please let the team know when you arrive. A buggy will operate from the Mobility Parking area to the event all day.
• This is an ideal event for all the family, including dogs, although there will be loud noises at times when the skirmishes are taking place.
•  There are no Disraeli talks running over the weekend.