Clipstone at War Returns for 2027 – Join Us for a Fantastic Weekend of Living History!

We’re delighted to announce that Clipstone at War is back on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th July 2027, bringing another action-packed weekend of 1940s nostalgia, military history and family entertainment to the iconic Clipstone Headstocks in Nottinghamshire.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, vintage vehicle lover or simply looking for a brilliant day out with the family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What Can You Expect?

Military Vehicles & Historic Displays

See an impressive collection of restored military vehicles and equipment from the Second World War, all lovingly maintained by dedicated owners and enthusiasts.

Living History Camps

Take a walk through authentic military and civilian encampments where living historians recreate everyday wartime life. Chat with reenactors, discover fascinating stories and learn more about Britain’s wartime past.

Battle Reenactments

Experience exciting military displays and battle recreations throughout the weekend as history is brought to life before your eyes.

Live 1940s Entertainment

Enjoy a fantastic programme of live music and performances celebrating the sounds of the 1940s. Expect plenty of well-known wartime favourites to get you singing along.

Vintage Shopping

Browse a variety of stalls selling vintage clothing, collectables, memorabilia, gifts and handmade crafts.

Food & Refreshments

With a great selection of food vendors and refreshments available throughout the weekend, you can easily make a full day of your visit.

A Wonderful Venue

Set against the striking backdrop of the Historic Clipstone Headstocks, this unique venue provides the perfect setting for one of Nottinghamshire’s most popular wartime events. The headstocks themselves are an important part of the area’s mining heritage, making them an ideal location to celebrate another significant chapter of British history.

Save the Date

📅 Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th July 2027

Bring your family, invite your friends and spend the weekend soaking up the atmosphere of the 1940s. From military history and vintage vehicles to live entertainment and great food, Clipstone at War offers a memorable day out for visitors of all ages.

More information, entertainment announcements and visitor details will be released nearer the event, so keep an eye on our updates.

We look forward to welcoming you to Clipstone at War 2027!

Kind regards,

Jayne Darling

Alford 1940s Weekend: A Jolly Jaunt Back in Time

Ah, the Alford 1940s Weekend! Where else can you step back into an era when stockings were seamed, and spam was a luxury item? Darren and I arrived Friday evening with time to spare, eager to immerse ourselves in the nostalgia. After all, who wouldn’t want to relive the days of ration books and Victory Rolls?

First things first, we caught up with the lovely Bridget and Simon from the Lah Di Dahs, and the delightful Eleanor Mattley, who brought along her mum and the ever-charming Jack, a fabulous two-year-old with a smile that could melt even the sternest Home Guard. With so many familiar faces, it was already shaping up to be a splendid weekend.

We then decided to indulge in some proper British fare—fish and chips from the Jolly Friar. Now, if you’ve never had the pleasure of devouring your fish and chips in Alford’s market square, you’ve truly missed out. There’s something about the combination of crispy batter, golden chips, and the gentle hum of distant Glenn Miller tunes that just makes everything taste better. We sat there, munching away, and soaking in the atmosphere, feeling as though we’d been transported straight back to 1943.

After filling our bellies, we checked into our cosy Airbnb in Sutton on Sea, hosted by the wonderful Stephanie. She’s the kind of host who makes you feel like you’ve arrived at your favourite aunt’s house—warm, welcoming, and with a kettle that’s always on. A good night’s sleep was in order because Saturday was promising to be quite the adventure.

Saturday arrived, blustery as ever, but that didn’t dampen our spirits. The stage was set in the market place, right next to a majestic Spitfire—a sight to behold! Sharing the stage with Eleanor Mattley and Kyle Evans as George Formby was an absolute treat. The wind might have been playing havoc with our hair, but the crowd’s enthusiasm kept us going strong. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like belting out a tune while trying to keep your dress from flying over your head.

Saturday night was the grand dance, a chance to let our hair down and say a massive thank you to June, Denver, Bob, and Dan, who have been the heart and soul of the Alford 1940s Weekend for the past four years. Their dedication is nothing short of heroic—after all, who else could create four miles of bunting without going completely barmy? The dance itself was brilliant, with Major Swing and Kitty leading the way. We ended the night in true 1940s style, doing the conga through the market place, only to find ourselves locked out of the Corn Exchange! There’s nothing quite like a good laugh to end a fantastic evening.

Sunday greeted us with bright sunshine, perfect for catching up with old friends. We bumped into the Lah Di Dahs again, and it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces. The day flew by in a whirlwind of vintage fashion, lively music, and plenty of cups of tea (and perhaps a sneaky G&T or two).

As the weekend drew to a close, there was a bittersweet feeling in the air. It’s the last year that June, Bob, and Dan will be organising the event, and it’s hard to imagine Alford 1940s Weekend without them. But what a weekend it was! Full of laughter, memories, and that special camaraderie that only comes from stepping back in time with a bunch of wonderful people.

So, until next time, keep calm, carry on, and if you ever find yourself near Alford, make sure to pop by the Jolly Friar for some of the best fish and chips you’ll ever taste!

Jayne Darling