What’s Happening
Step back into the 1940s for a full weekend of music, memories and living history across the Worth Valley. From the glamour of a big band dance to the bustle of a wartime railway in operation, each day offers something different to discover. Whether you join us for one special evening or immerse yourself in the full weekend experience, there is entertainment, atmosphere and nostalgia waiting at every station.
Friday 15 May – 1940s Evening Dance
We open the weekend in true vintage style with a 1940s Evening Dance at Oxenhope Exhibition Shed.
Step back into the golden age of swing with the sensational Kitty La Mare & The Ashby Little Big Band. Combining powerful, soulful vocals with the rich sound of a live big band, this performance captures the true spirit of the 1940s.
Kitty La Mare brings warmth, elegance, and authenticity to every song, performing much-loved wartime classics alongside timeless swing favourites. Backed by the Ashby Little Big Band, audiences can expect a full, vibrant sound that echoes the era’s dance halls.
From upbeat numbers that will have you tapping your feet to beautifully delivered ballads, this is a show that celebrates the music that lifted spirits during wartime Britain.
A must-see highlight of the weekend, perfect for music lovers, dancers, and anyone looking to soak up the atmosphere of the 1940s.
Doors open: 6.00 pm
Dancing until: 10.30 pm
Tickets: £20 per person (includes light supper)
Free Shuttle Train from Haworth at 17.45, 18.05, 18.25, 18.45, 19.05 & 19.25
Free Shuttle Train from Oxenhope at 21.50, 22.10 & 22.40
Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 May
From 11.00 am each day, the railway comes alive with the energy, resilience and unmistakable spirit of the 1940s.
Travel from station to station and discover a living, breathing wartime railway. Along the line you’ll encounter live entertainment, reenactors, themed displays and vintage vehicles — each location offering a different glimpse into life in Britain during the 1940s.
Across the Line
- Oxenhope – The Exhibition Shed hosts live performances throughout the day, alongside a vintage market and bar.
- Haworth – The courtyard and marquee welcome reenactors and a traditional Tea Dance.
- Oakworth – The yard becomes home to living history displays.
- Ingrow & Keighley – Period entertainment and refreshments bring the platforms to life.
On board the trains, reenactors will share wartime stories as you travel, with an onboard bar available throughout the day because even in wartime, morale matters.
Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight
We’re expecting a special visit from the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, with flypasts planned across both Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May as part of our 1940s Weekend.
Timings and aircraft will be confirmed closer to the event, so stay tuned and be ready to look up when the moment comes.
Performers & Participants
We are delighted to welcome a wonderful line-up of performers and living history participants, including:
- Fairground Organ
- Lady Lindy
- George Formby Tribute – Anthony Mason
- Blondies in Harmony
- Gas Light Trio
- Haworth Home Guard
- Police and ARP Re-enactors
- Hebden Bridge Ukulele Group
- Sir Arthur ‘Bomber’ Harris and Lady Ann
Further acts will be announced in the coming weeks.
