Join us for our free annual Salute to the 40’s weekend at the IBCC, 8th – 9th August. It gets bigger and better every year!
Come along and enjoy tea and cake on vintage crockery in the Marquee while listening to our wide variety of 40’s entertainment. Stroll around the grounds and chat to all our Re-enactors or treat yourself to something stylish and vintage from one of the many trade stands. Vehicle enthusiasts will be wowed by our selection of 1940s cars and military vehicles. With talks on bomb disposal and Mission briefings there really is something for everyone!
Back by popular demand…
On Saturday 8th, join us for a fabulous free 40’s celebration concert with Johnny Victory from 2.00.
Entry is Free (Parking charges apply which can be paid for at reception on arrival)
The staff & volunteers at the IBCC are ready to welcome you for a fabulous weekend of 40’s Fun!
Our Exhibition will be open each day and tickets are available here
The Hub Café & IBCC Gift Shop will be open throughout the weekend.
The Vintage Tearoom in the Garden Marquee will be open all day Saturday and until 1pm on Sunday – this year kindly sponsored by Taylor Wimpey
The Learning Team will be here from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 8th August and Sunday 9th August. They will running free children’s activities ensuring the whole family can join in the fun.
Op Pedestal Briefings Allan Jones is an historian, reenactor and devotee of RAF history. His presentation and briefings have entertained and educated audiences around the country and are a feature of the IBCC Salute to the 40’s each year.
For 2026 Allen will be covering Operation Pedestal.
As the convoy to relieve Malta, approaches the Strait of Sicily and the Eastern Mediterranean in August 1942, the RAF is charged with defending the ships and their precious cargos. RAF Hawksmere – Living History Group present a re-enactment of a briefing where you are the the pilots and crews of the RAF Squadrons, associated with the Operation Pedestal, tasked with the defence of the convoy and the Island.
They are free to attend but have limited seating. to reserve your space please click here
Why not make the most of the weekend with one or more of our special events?
Friday 7th August 6.00 – 9.30 pm – Cabaret & BBQ with Johnny Victory
Saturday 8th August 7.30 – 11.30pm – Blackout Blitz Ball with Kalamazoo
Sunday 9th August 2.30 – 4.30pm – 1940’s Vintage Afternoon Tea and Dance with live 40’s music
To book any of these events please click here
Camping, Caravans and Motorhomes
We have expanded our Wild Camping and Motorhome area, if you would like to stay one or more nights tickets are available here.
The IBCC Events programme raises money to support our charity’s work with Learning and Outreach.