Yorkshire Wartime Experience
Experience the thrill of history with the North’s largest military show featuring tanks, reenactments, and 1940s entertainment for all ages.
The Yorkshire Wartime Experience is the North of England's largest military show, held annually on expansive grounds near Doncaster. It features over 400 military vehicles, 70+ living history displays from WWI and WWII, thrilling battle reenactments, and 1940s home front entertainment. This immersive event offers family-friendly activities, military parades, vintage craft stalls, and a vibrant atmosphere celebrating wartime history.
A brief summary to Yorkshire Wartime Experience
- 6RN, Hunsworth Ln, Bradford, Birkenshaw, GB
- +447794405671
- Visit website
- Duration: 4 to 8 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear as the event covers extensive outdoor areas with varied terrain.
- Bring ear protection if attending battle reenactments, as live firing and tank movements can be loud.
- Arrive early to explore the full range of military vehicle displays and trade stalls before peak crowds.
- Check the event schedule for special activities like the Battle of Britain memorial flypast and children’s entertainment.
- Parking is free onsite, but public camping spaces sell out quickly—book in advance if planning to camp.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to the Yorkshire Wartime Experience from Doncaster takes approximately 15 to 25 minutes via the A1 and local roads. Free onsite parking is available, but expect increased traffic during event days. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Regional bus services connect Doncaster with Birkenshaw and nearby areas, taking around 30 to 45 minutes depending on the route. Service frequency may be limited on event days, so check schedules in advance. Tickets typically cost between £3 and £6.
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Train and Taxi
Visitors can take a train to Doncaster station, then a taxi or rideshare for a 15-minute journey to the event site. Taxi fares range from £10 to £15. This option is convenient if you prefer not to drive.
Yorkshire Wartime Experience location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Yorkshire Wartime Experience
A Grand Celebration of Military History
The Yorkshire Wartime Experience stands as the North of England’s premier military show, sprawling across more than 30 acres just north of Doncaster. It is a vibrant homage to the military heritage of the World Wars, bringing history vividly to life through an impressive collection of over 400 military vehicles including tanks, artillery, and trucks. The event’s scale and authenticity make it a unique spectacle for enthusiasts and families alike.Living History and Authentic Reenactments
Visitors are immersed in history with over 70 living history displays representing both World War I and World War II. These exhibits feature authentic military equipment, uniforms, and reenactors who demonstrate the life and times of wartime soldiers and civilians. The highlight is the spectacular battle reenactments held on Saturdays and Sundays, where tanks move and fire in coordinated action, providing a thrilling and educational experience.1940s Home Front and Entertainment
Beyond the battlefield, the event recreates the 1940s home front atmosphere with displays of period vehicles, equipment, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy live 40s singing and dancing, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the era. The event also hosts military vehicle parades and a Battle of Britain memorial flypast, deepening the connection to wartime history and remembrance.Family-Friendly Activities and Market Stalls
The Yorkshire Wartime Experience is designed as a fun-filled day out for all ages. Children can engage with firing ranges and mini tanks, while the whole family can explore numerous trade stalls offering military collectibles, vintage crafts, and memorabilia. Food and refreshments are available alongside a fully licensed bar, ensuring a comfortable and festive environment.Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
The venue provides free onsite parking and public camping options, although camping often sells out early. The event’s location near major motorways makes it accessible for visitors from across the region. While the terrain is mostly flat and suitable for families, the large outdoor setting means visitors should prepare for varying weather conditions.Enduring Appeal and Community Spirit
With a strong community of military history enthusiasts and reenactors, the Yorkshire Wartime Experience fosters a welcoming and educational atmosphere. It is a place where history buffs, families, and veterans come together to honor the past through immersive displays and shared stories, making it a memorable and meaningful event each year.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bradford City Hall
5.6 km
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Temple Works
12.0 km
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Statue of John Harrison
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Tilly + Enzo
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Leeds War Memorial
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The Talbot Hounds Fountain
12.8 km
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Holy Trinity Church
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Civic Hall
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Woodhouse Ridge View point
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Leeds Corn Exchange
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Victoria Leeds
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Leeds Minster
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Leeds Dock
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Experience the lively atmosphere of Leeds Dock, where scenic waterfront views meet a variety of bars, restaurants, and green spaces for a perfect day out.
Royal Armouries Museum
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Discover the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds, a treasure trove of arms and armor showcasing history's most fascinating warfare artifacts.
The Hollies
13.5 km
Discover the tranquility of The Hollies, a beautiful park and garden in Leeds, perfect for leisurely strolls and peaceful retreats in nature's embrace.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bradford Cathedral
5.8 km
Discover Bradford Cathedral, a historic sanctuary blending 1,400 years of faith, art, and community spirit in the heart of Bradford city centre.
Farnley Hall Park
7.7 km
Historic grounds meet vibrant green spaces in Farnley Hall Park, a family-friendly retreat just west of Leeds city centre.
Shibden Hall
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Discover centuries of history and natural beauty at Shibden Hall, a historic manor set in award-winning parkland near Halifax.
Bramley Park
9.3 km
A lively community park in Leeds blending sports, nature, and local events with stunning city views and family-friendly spaces.
Calverley Old Hall
9.4 km
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White Rose Shopping Centre
9.6 km
Leeds’ premier indoor shopping centre with 120+ stores, dining, cinema, and family-friendly play areas under one roof.
Elland Rd
9.6 km
Elland Road: A historic football fortress and passionate home of Leeds United since 1919, steeped in rich sporting heritage.
Rodley Nature Reserve
9.8 km
A tranquil urban wetland near Leeds, Rodley Nature Reserve offers vibrant birdlife, dragonflies, and peaceful nature walks in a volunteer-run sanctuary.
Bramley Fall Park
10.4 km
Explore Bramley Fall Park’s ancient woods, scenic waterways, and family-friendly playgrounds in a tranquil Leeds green space.
Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve
10.6 km
Discover a thriving wildlife sanctuary blending industrial heritage and natural beauty on the edge of Leeds.
Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills
10.9 km
Step inside the world’s largest former woollen mill and explore Leeds’ rich industrial past through fascinating machinery and historic exhibits.
Middleton Park
11.0 km
Explore 630 acres of ancient woodland, heritage trails, a bike park, and a heritage railway in the heart of Leeds’ largest green space.
Kirkstall Abbey
11.1 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, a serene medieval Cistercian monastery nestled in scenic parkland by the River Aire in Leeds.
Horsforth Hall Park
11.2 km
Historic community park in Leeds featuring open green spaces, a Japanese garden, sports facilities, and year-round family events.
Abbey House Museum
11.2 km
Step into Victorian Leeds at Abbey House Museum, where historic streets and childhood memories come alive in a family-friendly setting.
Essential places to dine
Grand Cru Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience luxurious modern British dining in a beautifully restored landmark with refined cuisine and warm, attentive service in Birkenshaw.
Owl (Lockside Leeds)
12.2 km
Innovative British cuisine meets scenic waterside charm at The Owl, Leeds’ culinary gem in Lockside.
The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar
12.2 km
A vibrant Leeds dining spot blending modern style, diverse menus, and warm service for all tastes including excellent vegan options.
La Taberna Leeds
12.3 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and a warm, intimate atmosphere in the heart of Leeds at La Taberna.
LIVIN'Italy
12.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and vibrant social vibes beneath Leeds’ historic railway arches at Granary Wharf.
Da Vito Ristorante
12.4 km
Warm, authentic Italian dining in the heart of Leeds, offering classic flavors and a cozy atmosphere with attentive service.
De Baga Restaurant
12.5 km
Experience authentic Goan and southern Indian cuisine in a vibrant, welcoming setting at De Baga, Headingley’s celebrated Indian restaurant.
Kuala Lumpur Café Headingley
12.5 km
Experience authentic Malaysian cuisine in a cozy, friendly café setting with vibrant flavors and warm hospitality in Headingley, Leeds.
TADA
12.5 km
Authentic Japanese flavors meet stylish comfort in Headingley’s beloved TADA, a top choice for sushi, ramen, and bento delights.
The Cat's Pyjamas
12.5 km
Experience vibrant pan-Indian street food in a cosy, lively setting at The Cat's Pyjamas in Headingley, Leeds.
Santorini Bar & Grill
12.5 km
Experience authentic Greek and Turkish flavors in a lively, welcoming setting at Santorini Bar & Grill in Leeds’ vibrant Headingley district.
Signature Bar and Restaurant
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A stylish dining and social hotspot in Leeds’ lively Headingley, known for excellent cocktails, diverse cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Poco Sicilian Street Food Headingley
12.5 km
Authentic Sicilian street food in the heart of Headingley, Leeds, serving vibrant flavors in a casual, welcoming setting.
Sous Le Nez
12.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and warm Yorkshire hospitality in the charming basement setting of Sous Le Nez, Leeds’ beloved classic bistro.
FINT
12.5 km
Scandinavian-inspired dining with vegan-friendly options and a cozy, stylish atmosphere in central Leeds.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mill Outlet & Garden Centre
7.2 km
Explore the UK's largest retail mill with over 40 stores, a garden centre, and diverse dining options all under one historic roof.
Leeds United Store
9.6 km
Official Leeds United merchandise store near Elland Road, offering authentic kits, apparel, and memorabilia for passionate fans year-round.
Uniquely Yours / Yorkshire Melts
10.0 km
Discover handcrafted wax melts and unique Yorkshire gifts in the heart of Armley, Leeds, blending artisan charm with local warmth.
Our Handmade Collective
11.7 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from over 110 local makers in a welcoming Horsforth boutique that celebrates creativity and quality.
Hidden Wardrobe - Cashmere scarves Leeds | Jewellery Shop | Gift Shop
11.9 km
Discover luxurious cashmere scarves and exquisite jewellery in Huddersfield’s historic Shambles at The Hidden Wardrobe boutique.
Style LTT
12.2 km
Chic womenswear finds in Headingley's lively heart: soft, stylish pieces for every day, blending comfort and contemporary flair amid buzzing cafes and parks.
All Things Quirky 4 U
12.3 km
A charming Etsy shop in a historic Huddersfield mill, filled with vintage accessories, handmade jewellery, and quirky gifts with personality.
varelas.clothing
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Unique fashion finds in Headingley's vibrant heart, where personal style meets eclectic Leeds suburb charm on Raven Road.
Legs&Limpy
12.4 km
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Flavour Like Fancy
12.6 km
Vibrant Headingley gift shop brimming with bold, handmade treasures from local UK makers—perfect for unique finds that spark joy and support indie creativity.
Pablos Friends Shop
12.7 km
Discover unique local goods and gifts at Pablo's Friends Shop in Headingley, Leeds, a charming destination for authentic Yorkshire finds.
Melts
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Celeb Boutique
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Crown Jewels Wax Melts
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LW Home & Decor
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Mill
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Brudenell Social Club
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The Headingley Taps
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The Head of Steam Headingley
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Green Room
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The Gin Room
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Dirty Martini - Leeds
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The Golden Beam - JD Wetherspoon
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Arcadia Ale House
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Lost & Found Leeds
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Below Stairs
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Be At One - Greek Street Leeds
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
