This February half term discover the truth behind the real ‘Dad’s Army’ at IWM North, part of Imperial War Museums in Manchester.
Ahead of the Dad’s Army film release, see what life was really like in the Home Guard – Britain’s last line of defence against invasion during the Second World War – in the family friendly exhibition Horrible Histories: Blitzed Brits. See makeshift weapons on display such as pikes and swordsticks used by the Home Guard around the country and view incredible colour footage from IWM’s archives of the Home Guard in training.
Over 75 years ago the Home Guard were Britain’s last line of defence against German invasion. At first a rag-tag militia, with make-do uniforms and weaponry, by the end of the war it had evolved into a well-equipped and well-trained army of 1.7 million men.
See how they were trained in an incredible colour film excerpt from IWM’s archive – including making a children’s pram into an enemy tank to simulate an invasion.
Families are invited to get creative in daily craft sessions to make their own wooden Home Front hero (2-3.30pm), or dress up as a member of the Home Guard or an Air Raid Warden.
Men of the Home Guard were not only readied for invasion, but also performed other roles including bomb disposal and manning anti-aircraft and coastal artillery. Visitors of all ages can learn more about the real Dad’s Army through free tours (daily, 1.30pm).
Younger visitors can take part in interactive story telling session Dotty’s Daring Blitz Adventure, (daily at 10.30am) and discover the Blitz through the eyes of Dotty, a 10 year-old girl whose mum is an Air Raid Warden. Follow Dotty as she goes on a daring rescue mission to help a friend. Listen to warning sirens, imagine what it was like to shelter during air raids and get hands on with ARP artefacts and unique pieces of shrapnel collected by children over 70 years ago.
If all that patrolling of the British Isles has left you feeling parched, why not visit the Watershard Café and Kitchen, with amazing waterside views for a delicious cake or a freshly made sandwich.
Stop by the IWM North shop to stock up on your ‘Dad’s Army’ essential supplies, including The Walmington-on-sea Home Guard training Manual or a shiny Air Raid Warden whistle and helmet.
Entry is free, donations welcome. Find out more at iwm.org.uk or connect with IWM North on twitter @IWMNorth or facebook.com/iwm.north #BlitzedBrits
