Pickering is reviving one of the UK’s most celebrated 1940s-themed events this October. Organised by Pickering Town CIC and with the support of local volunteers and a grant from the Town Mayoral Investment Fund, The 1940s Weekend will return following its hiatus during the pandemic.

Rebranded from the original Pickering War Weekend, the event will now place greater emphasis on civilian life and the town’s community spirit during wartime Britain. The revival also marks the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe and Victory in Japan.

Key Attractions and Activities

• Town-wide Transformation: Shops, cafés and pubs will be styled with wartime décor, offering a nostalgic atmosphere throughout Pickering.
• Shuttle Service to Eden Camp: A return shuttle bus will operate between Pickering and Eden Camp on 11th October for £5 per person.
• Eden Camp Experience: Live performances of 1940s music, dancing by York Vintage Dancers in period costume, and access to 22 original prisoner of war huts filled with wartime exhibits.
• North Yorkshire Moors Railway: Steam trains will run towards the coast, offering passengers a historic travel experience.
• Beck Isle Museum: Hosting a dedicated 1940s costume exhibition.
• Kirk Theatre: Featuring a talk on the Bletchley Park Code Breakers.
• Memorial Hall: Home to a vintage emporium during the weekend.
• Town Decorations: The Pickering Yarn Bombers will adorn streets with 1940s-themed knitted installations.
• Marketplace Attractions: Vintage car displays, costumed characters, live music, and dancing in the town centre and local pubs.