Wartime and Rationing Weekend13, 14 June 2026
Visit the Epping Ongar Railway for a taste of life during wartime and rationing.
Come and step back in time with us, immerse yourself in a flavour of what a rural British steam railway could have appeared in the height of summer, as 'forties-dressed civilians and British and Allies military personnel, Home Guard, ARP Wardens, American GIs and other re-enactors mingle with passengers, and period road vehicles to and fro.
Ride on our beautifully preserved fleet of vintage buses, included in your fare! Stations and passenger trains will be specially adorned and decorated. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and spirit of wartime Britain, with music, entertainment, and re-enactments bringing the era to life.
Passengers are encouraged to come dressed in 1940s style civilian clothing.
Heritage steam and diesel trains will be in operation between North Weald, Ongar and Epping Forest, together with connecting vintage London buses from Epping Underground station and Shenfield stations. These, and all the other attractions, are included in our great value fares!
Getting to us
It's easy to get to us via the London Underground and Elizabeth Line and Greater Anglia services. Our inclusive vintage London buses will run from right outside the front of Epping Underground station (Central Line, zone 6) and from Shenfield station (for Elizabeth Line and Greater Anglia services), connecting with our train services at North Weald and Ongar stations.
There is only limited car parking for disabled passengers at our stations, which must be booked in advance. Public car parks are available in Ongar (charges may apply), a short walk from the station (use postcode CM5 9AB); Alternatively passengers may park at Epping Station (charges apply) and join our vintage London bus service (use postcode CM16 4HW).
The bus services are included in your great value fare.
More details about how to get to us
The Penny Salon Gallery at Ongar station
The Penny Salon Gallery at Ongar station will be open showing a topical photographic exhibition.
Heritage steam and diesel train and connecting vintage bus times
The timetables for the heritage train services, and for the connecting vintage London bus services will be available nearer to the date of the event.
Refreshments
The LNER Cafe at North Weald will be serving a selection of hot and cold snacks, together with hot and cold drinks.
The Buffer Stop cafe at Ongar offers tea and coffee and confectionary.
Our on train will be open serving a selection of local real ale and cider, together with bottled beer and wine.
Fares
Fares to be announced early in 2026. All fares include unlimited travel on our train and vintage London bus services on the date of your visit.
Children under 3 are free - no ticket needed!
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