Holt & Sheringham Norfolk 1940’s Weekend 2026
Held in conjunction with Sheringham 1940s Weekend, the event celebrates the wartime efforts of allied forces and the remarkable resilience shown by those who dealt with the hardships on the home front. Expect the sights, sounds and style of the ’40s in the town of Holt.
On Friday 18, Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th 2026 this part of North Norfolk head back in time with a with lots of events ranging from military vehicle parades to pigeon racing.
Experience the resilience and glamour of the wartime era at the Holt & Sheringham 1940s Weekend. One of the UK’s most popular heritage events, this immersive festival transforms the towns of Holt and Sheringham—and the connecting North Norfolk Railway—into a living history museum.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a vintage fashion fan, or looking for a nostalgic family day out, join us as we celebrate the “Blitz Spirit” with live music, classic vehicles, and the unmistakable hiss of steam.
What to Expect
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The North Norfolk Railway: Travel between the two towns on authentic heritage steam trains. The stations are meticulously decorated to transport you straight back to the 1940s.
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Vintage Atmosphere: Wander through streets filled with classic military vehicles, civilian cars, and historical re-enactors bringing the era to life.
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Live Entertainment: Dust off your dancing shoes for big band music, tea dances, and performances by 1940s-style crooners and starlets.
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Period Fashion: From Land Girls and RAF pilots to dapper civilians in trilbies, the fashion is the star of the show. (Dressing up is highly encouraged!)
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Local Markets & Food: Enjoy traditional rations (and some modern treats!) at local pubs, cafés, and stalls across both towns.
“A truly unforgettable weekend where the community comes together to honour the past with style, music, and a lot of heart.”
Event at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Sheringham, Holt, and the North Norfolk Railway (Poppy Line) |
| Transport | Park & Ride services are available; Steam trains run all day |
| Attractions | Military displays, live music, vintage markets, and re-enactments |
| Vibe | Nostalgic, community-focused, and family-friendly |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to dress in 1940s attire? Not at all! While many visitors love to get into the spirit by wearing period-correct outfits, you are more than welcome in modern clothes. If you do want to dress up, look for “Utility Clothing,” military uniforms, or classic tea dresses.
Are tickets required? The events within the towns of Holt and Sheringham are generally free to access. However, tickets are required to travel on the North Norfolk Railway (The Poppy Line) and to access certain platform displays. We recommend booking steam train tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.
Is the event dog-friendly? Yes! Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in most outdoor areas and on the heritage trains (subject to railway policy). Please be aware that the crowds can be very large and noisy, which may be stressful for some pets.
How do I get between Holt and Sheringham? The most authentic way is via the North Norfolk Railway. Alternatively, a shuttle bus service usually operates between Holt station and the town centre, and there are local bus routes and parking facilities available.
What happens if it rains? The “Blitz Spirit” means we carry on regardless! Many displays are outdoors, so please dress for the British weather. There are plenty of indoor cafés, pubs, and station buildings to duck into if a shower passes through.
Is there parking available? Parking in the town centres is extremely limited during the weekend. We strongly advise using the official Park & Ride services located on the outskirts of the towns to avoid congestion
