Greystoke Castle WWII event will include Churchill performer

3
Skip to next photo
1/1
Show caption
1/1
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A Cumbrian castle will be transported back to the 1940s as it hosts a wartime-themed weekend.

Greystoke at War will take place at Greystoke Castle on Saturday, August 22, and Sunday, August 23, offering visitors a living history experience focused on Britain during the Second World War.

The event promises immersive displays, authentic military vehicles, re-enactments, and vintage entertainment, alongside family-friendly activities suitable for all ages.

A spokesperson for the event said: "Greystoke at War is designed to be an immersive, family-friendly event where visitors of all ages can step back in time, experience history first-hand and gain a greater appreciation of the people, vehicles, music and stories that shaped the Second World War."

The programme includes living history camps, trade stalls, talks and demonstrations, along with a varied line-up of wartime-era entertainment.

A military vehicle on display.An example of one of the military vehicles on display. (Image: Greystoke Castle)

Highlights include a Winston Churchill re-enactor, portrayed by Derek Herbert, who will remain in character throughout the day and perform two of Churchill’s most iconic speeches.

He will be joined by 'Clementine Churchill', played by Linda Herbert, with both re-enactors engaging with visitors, discussing wartime Britain, and posing for photographs.

The event will also feature re-enactment groups representing British, American, Ukrainian and other WWII forces.

Groups will set up authentic military camps complete with period uniforms, equipment and vehicles.

Visitors can explore displays by wartime photographers and view military vehicles such as Half-Tracks, GMC trucks and WWII Jeeps.

Educational talks and demonstrations will give attendees the chance to hear directly from re-enactors about the people, equipment and experiences of the war.

Live entertainment will help set the tone, including a George Formby tribute by Colin Bourdiec and 1940s songs performed by Rachel Mercer.

A George Formby tribute artist performs.George Formby tribute artist Colin Bourdiec performing. (Image: Greystoke Castle)

The Kendal Big Band will perform a selection of wartime music on Saturday.

An evening 1940s Dance will round off the first day, with guests encouraged to dress in period or vintage attire.

Singer Amy Anderson-Walmsley will perform classic 1940s numbers to help create an authentic atmosphere for the dance.

The event emphasises both education and enjoyment, aiming to give visitors of all ages an opportunity to connect with the stories and experiences of the Second World War.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos