Battle of Britain Bunker commemorates 80th anniversary of VE Day

Activities during the bank holiday weekend include specially themed tours along with vintage games, interactive displays and a climbing wall, with the highlight on Monday 5 May a1940s-themed tea dance and traditional VE Day street party. 

Events begin on Saturday 3 May, with special VE Day tours of the bunker, a range of 1940s games and activities, and as part of a 'Reminiscence Roadshow' visitors will be invited to record their memories of VE Day and everyday life during past decades with these oral histories forming part of a future exhibition. 

On Sunday 4 May, the tours and roadshow continue, alongside the first of the bunker's VE Day themed Speaker Series events, where Chris Leworthy will give attendees a vivid description of the invasion and the challenges soldiers faced. 

On Monday 5 May, a wreath-laying ceremony led by the Mayor of Hillingdon will take place from 11.45am. A climbing wall for all ages and abilities will be available to test your agility, before a 1940s tea dance on the mezzanine of the visitor centre at 2.30pm, with performances by Easy Street Big Band, singer Naomi Cook, and the Beck Community Choir continuing until 3.30pm.  

Another in the Speaker Series, Phil Craig will give a fascinating talk entitled 'WW2 - The Reckoning; From the Finest Hour to the End of Empire', from 11.30am to 12.30pm.  

And throughout Monday, a traditional VE Day street party, will take place outside the visitor centre, with stalls serving food and drinks, music, dancing, and visitors are encouraged to dress up in 1940s clothing to add to the atmosphere and for the chance to win a prize.  

As part of the celebrations, the council has also supported residents to host 14 street parties across the borough. 

VE Day commemorates the moment on 8 May 1945 when World War II allies accepted Germany's unconditional surrender, bringing an end to the war in Europe.  

The anniversary will also be marked with the ceremonial raising of a commemorative flag on the forecourt of the Civic Centre in Uxbridge at 9am on Thursday 8 May. 

Cllr Eddie Lavery, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Community and Environment, said: "We're immensely proud of the borough's involvement in the war effort, particularly the role of the Battle of Britain Bunker, so it's the perfect venue to mark the anniversary of this major moment in military history. 

"If you've never visited the bunker, or you're a regular visitor, this is a brilliant opportunity to bring the family or friends along to this unique historic venue and join the festivities, share your memories and create some new ones." 

Entry to most events and activities is included in the price of a bunker tour or visitor centre ticket.  

For the full list of events and timings and to book your visit, go to discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/ve-day