World War II Re-enactment Weekend at The Bishop’s Palace
1-2 August 2026 | 9.30am to 5.30pm
Step back into wartime Britain at The Bishop’s Palace this summer. Meet costumed characters, enjoy fascinating live demonstrations, discover a genuine air raid shelter and challenge your family with traditional 1940s games.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable family day out, there’s plenty to discover throughout the weekend.
Event Highlights
- Live re-enactors and costumed characters
- Interactive 30-minute shows
- Genuine WWII Anderson air raid shelter
- Traditional 1940s Games Arena
- Family-friendly activities
- Included with standard admission
Throughout the weekend, meet William and Alice from Classroom Adventures as they bring wartime Britain to life through engaging storytelling and interactive demonstrations.
Like many patriotic enthusiasts of the time, William is eager to do his bit for the war effort. Fascinated by intelligence work and secret codes, he follows the latest wartime news and even tries his hand at creating his own cryptographic puzzles.
Meanwhile, Alice has little time for William’s latest obsessions. Her days are spent making the most of rationed supplies and finding creative ways to keep meals interesting. Like millions across Britain, she shares recipes, tips and ideas with fellow housewives determined to keep spirits high on the Home Front.
What’s On
4th Dorsets HQ Company
Explore an authentic British Army field headquarters set a few miles behind the Normandy front line. Discover the radios, field telephones, typewriters, maps and equipment used by officers and soldiers of the Dorsetshire Regiment, offering a fascinating insight into military life beyond the battlefield.
WWII Anderson Air Raid Shelter
Step inside a genuine WWII Anderson shelter from Bristol and discover how families protected themselves during air raids. Filled with authentic household and 1940s home front items, it offers a glimpse into everyday wartime life and the resilience of those living through the conflict.
Live Shows
Enjoy a series of engaging 30-minute shows throughout the day, exploring different aspects of wartime Britain.
Codes and Ciphers (30 mins)
Discover how codes and ciphers have been used for thousands of years, from light and sound signals to secret writing and visual tricks. Cryptography advanced rapidly in the lead-up to the Second World War, and its role in the conflict cannot be overstated.
Escape and Evasion (30 mins)
If stranded in hostile territory, what training or equipment would help you survive and give you the best chance of making it home?
And if you are captured, is that the end? For some, duty, determination or desperation drove them to attempt daring escapes. Being a prisoner of war didn’t always mean complete isolation. Sometimes secret supplies arrived hidden inside seemingly ordinary letters from home.
A Life on Rations (30 mins)
As U-boats attempted to cut Britain’s supply lines, the nation was encouraged to “Dig for Victory”. From the Land Army to allotments, everyone was called upon to play their part. Nothing could be wasted, and rationing became a way of life.
1940s Games
Step back in time with a collection of authentic 1940s games inspired by the wartime period.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional games at their own pace, returning as often as they like. Some are quick and easy to learn, while others require a little more strategy, ensuring there’s something for all ages to enjoy.
Admission
This event is included with standard admission to The Bishop’s Palace, including:
- Annual Pass
- Day Ticket
- Joint Ticket with Wells Cathedral
- Friends of the Palace membership
Don’t miss this immersive weekend of living history, fascinating demonstrations and family-friendly activities. Book your visit and experience the sights, sounds and stories of wartime Britain at The Bishop’s Palace.