WW2 Weekend – A Celebration of VE 80
Experience the atmosphere of wartime Britain as Michelham Priory marks 80 years since Victory in Europe with a weekend of living history, displays, and family-friendly activities. Take a journey through history, celebrating the courage, resilience, and spirit of those who lived through the war years.
What’s On
Live Entertainment
The Land Girls Singers performing wartime favourites throughout the weekend.
Living History & Displays
“How We Used to Live” display, including a vintage Fordson Standard Tractor
Historic military vehicles: 1941 Dodge WC12 Truck, 1943 GMC 6×6 Cargo Truck, and a wartime ambulance
Family wartime history exhibits
Ham & Jam Reenactment Group focusing on the Burma Campaign
Monte Cassino mini display
Wartime tents and authentic camping scenes
Mock Air Raid Shelter and interactive Code Breaking Room
Talks & Stories
A talk sharing the remarkable story of a Polish Prisoner of War
Children’s Activities
Tank Hunting game
Paper Aeroplane Competition
Pom-pom making
Colouring and paper crafts
Weapon Drill sessions
Poppy Memorial Area
A quiet space for reflection and remembrance
- Join us for a fascinating weekend at Michelham Priory. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious learner, or just looking for a great day out, WW2 Weekend offers something for all ages.
Special admission price
Just £10 for adults and £5 for children and students – valid for this weekend only.
About the event:
Date: 7th & 8th June
Time: 10am to 5pm
Location: Michelham Priory House & Gardens, Upper Dicker, Nr Hailsham
Cost: Adults – £10
Children (5-17)/ Students – £5
Under 5’s – Free
Members of Sussex Past/ Friends of Michelham Priory – Free
To find out more about becoming a Member of Sussex Past click here.
This event is exempt from Gift Aid readmission.
Frequently asked questions
- My ticket says arrival at ’10am’ – do I have to come at this time? No, the 10am time simply marks when the event opens. You’re welcome to arrive at any time from 10am, with last admission at 4.15pm.
- Can I get a free carer ticket? Yes. If you require a carer or companion to support you during your visit for accessibility reasons, please let us know when you arrive. Simply provide proof of eligibility – such as a PIP or DLA award letter, a hospital letter, or a recognised carer’s card (e.g. i-go Card, Compass Card, or similar) – and your companion will receive free entry.
- Do you have any wheelchairs or mobility scooters I can use? We do have a small number of wheelchairs and a mobility scooter for visitors to use. However, these are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Are there refreshments on-site? Yes, there is a wonderful on-site cafe, or you are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy in our grounds.
- I’ve got a Gift Aid Readmission Pass – Can I use it at this event? No, unfortunately not. This event is one of our ‘Gift Aid Exemption Days’.
- Are Gardener’s World, Art Fund or Historic Houses, Blue Peter Badges etc. cards valid at this event? Unfortunately, we’re unable to accept any additional discount cards for this event, as entry prices have already been specially reduced for the WW2 Weekend.
For any other questions you may have, please email enquiries@sussexpast.co.uk
