War on the Line - a day out on The Watercress Line

Hello there,

It's no secret I love military history - it's often the focus of our holidays and even my day job. So you can imagine my delight when I was transported back to the 1940's this weekend. The Watercress Line kindly invited a group of Southampton Bloggers to their War on the Line event - a glimpse into life on a Second World War railway.

The Watercress Line has been one of those things I've always wanted to do and I was especially pleased to be able to bring along the other half (he even dug out his flat cap and braces for the occasion!).

On arrival at Ropley Station we were given a map of the station, some info about the other stations on the line and a timetable (which was essential). We had unlimited travel on the trains so we able to plan our day without worrying about being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

We were also given ID cards - woe betide anyone who lost theirs!

We decided to head to Alresford first which was one end of the line. This was GI Central for the weekend with live music, a military checkpoint and vehicles.

Next up we headed to Alton at the opposite end of the line. Enroute we had a stop off at Medstead and Four Marks station where you could learn about life on the Home Front and Bringing up Baby in wartime.

On arrival at Alton station we were greeted by the most amazing singer Becki Short - I could have listened to her all day.

We then headed back to Ropley station where we had started. There was plenty to see on both sides of the station so we headed over the bridge (just as a steam train was underneath - keeping everyone nice and warm!).

If you fancied a bit of a change, there was Pearl's Pin-Up Parlour on hand to give you a bit of pampering, plus the opportunity for a vintage photoshoot and a new hat or two.

Some more amazing singers entertained the crowds and a vintage vehicle display kept the other half entertained for ages.

War on the Line was on over the weekend of Father's Day, 16th-17th June. A perfect idea for a pressie if you were stuck for ideas.

A big thank you to the Watercress Line for inviting us - we had smiles on our faces all day.

Thanks for reading

Cathy
xx