War and Peace Revival

War and Peace Revival. The War and Peace Revival was a major British festival dedicated to 20th-century military history, particularly focusing on the Second World War. Established as a successor to the long-running War & Peace Show, it became one of the largest events of its kind in Europe, attracting enthusiasts, collectors, and reenactors from across the globe. The event was renowned for its vast display of historic military vehicles, immersive living history encampments, and bustling trade stands, ceasing operations after its 2019 edition.

History and origins

The event originated following the relocation of the original War & Peace Show from the Beltring hop farm in 2009. Entrepreneur and showman Rex Cadman, who had been involved with the earlier event, launched the new revival at a different site in Kent. It aimed to recapture the spirit and scale of its predecessor, quickly establishing itself in the calendar of international military vehicle enthusiasts. The inaugural event in 2010 drew significant crowds and set a precedent for growth, with subsequent editions expanding to include conflicts from the Napoleonic Wars through to the Cold War. Its history is intertwined with other major European shows like the Military Odyssey and the former Wings & Wheels event at Duxford Aerodrome.

Event features and attractions

Central to the event were the thousands of historic military vehicles, ranging from Jeeps and Sherman tanks to Soviet T-34s and postwar Chieftain tanks. Large-scale battle reenactments involved groups like the Second Battle Group and the WWII Historical Reenactment Society, depicting engagements from D-Day to the Battle of Berlin. The arena hosted dynamic displays including RAF flypasts, paratrooper demonstrations, and vehicle parades. A massive trade fair featured vendors from companies such as SOF Military Supply, while educational talks were often given by historians like James Holland and experts from the Bovington Tank Museum.

Location and venue

The event was held at the former RAF West Malling airfield in Kent, a historic site that saw service during the Battle of Britain and later as a United States Air Force base during the Cold War. This location provided extensive hardstanding and grass areas ideal for vehicle displays, camping, and large-scale arena events. The venue's proximity to major transport links like the M20 motorway and London facilitated access for international visitors and participants from countries like France, Germany, and the United States. The site's own history added an authentic backdrop, contrasting with other show locations like the Stanford Training Area used by the War & Peace Show.

Organizers and management

The event was founded and principally organized by Rex Cadman through his company, Rex Cadman Ltd. Cadman, a well-known figure in the British showman community, applied his experience from organizing other large events like the Kent County Show. Operational management involved a large team coordinating reenactor groups, vehicle clubs such as the Military Vehicle Trust, and safety officials from Kent Police and the South East Coast Ambulance Service. After the 2019 event, the organizers announced the cessation of the festival, citing increasing operational complexities and costs.

Cultural impact and reception

It was widely covered by media outlets including BBC South East Today, The History Channel, and publications like Classic Military Vehicle magazine. The event played a significant role in sustaining the hobby of military vehicle restoration in the United Kingdom, influencing similar gatherings across Europe like Tankfest and the MVTF rally in the Netherlands. It provided a major platform for charities such as the Royal British Legion and Help for Heroes, raising substantial funds. Its conclusion was met with disappointment from the global living history community, marking the end of an era for one of Europe's premier historical spectacles. Category:Recurring events established in 2010 Category:Military history of the United Kingdom Category:Festivals in Kent