VE Day Celebrations at Sudeley
This year marks 80 years since VE (Victory in Europe) Day when the Second World War came to an end in Europe. Join us for a special day to celebrate and honour those who fought to protect our freedom.
Step back in time and join us for a nostalgic celebration of Victory in Europe Day within the historic grounds of Sudeley Castle. Discover how Sudeley offered a safe haven for evacuee families, national treasures as well as accommodating prisoners-of-war.
As we reflect on the freedom and values the Second World War generation fought to protect, this special day connects every generation with history, stories and the impact of the war years.
Join us to honour and celebrate the generation who fought for our freedom! From bunting and brass to tea and triumph, Victory at the Castle, is a heart-warming family day out —packed with wartime charm, vintage entertainment, and a proud salute to the heroes of 1945.
Join us for a day of remembrance and a Sudeley celebration of peace.
What's On:
WWII Medical Tent
Experience history up close in our authentic period-style medical tent. Families can explore how wounded soldiers were treated on the front lines, with real wartime equipment and field supplies. Discover the vital role of medics and nurses and resilience on the front lines. This is an immersive and education experience for all ages - perfect for curious minds and budding historians alike.
Punch and Judy!
Gather the little ones on the Queen's Lawn for the timeless seaside puppet show that cheered children during wartime.
Laughs, slapstick, and a bit of mischief included!
The Queen's lawn is located in the heart of the castle grounds, behind the Richard III banqueting hall ruins
Swinging Back to the '40s: Live Music!
Join us on the Mulberry lawn to enjoy live and nostalgic music by Lissie Allsopp!
Tap your toes to the sounds of the era with live music performances, from wartime singalongs to vintage swing.
Dressing up in 1940s attire is highly encouraged!
Special Talks
Join a special Sudeley & WWII talk to discover the castle’s hidden role in the Second World War.
Learn how Sudeley Castle adapted during wartime, providing refuge for art, evacuees and serving as a prisoner of war camp, which was located in todays car park (photographed).
Talk times: 10:45am, 2:15pm & 4:15pm
Meeting Point: Terrace
Tea, Cake & Community Spirit
Save space for a classic cream tea dished up with plenty of nostalgia!
Pull up a chair, wave your Union Jack, and soak in the spirit of 1945 on the Mulberry Lawn.
British favourites await; Fruit loaf , Lemon drizzle, Victoria Sponge & Chocolate cake
Tea and Cake: £6.75
Queen Mary & the Mosquito Fighter Bomber
In August 1944 Queen Mary visited Sudeley & Winchcombe to inspect the factory of HH Martyns.
Martyns were specialists in wood working a made wooden parts for the Mosquito Fighter Bomber in Winchcombe after their Cheltenham factory and been hit in a raid.
Queen Mary showed particular interest in the role of women in the factory and even got to hammer a nail in to show willing!
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Join us in the WWII Medical tent! -
Live music of the era awaits on the Mulberry lawn from 12pm -
Enjoy nostalgic Punch & Judy -
Discover Sudeley's WWII past with special talks
Explore more
There is always something going on at Sudeley…