Events
1940s Weekend
Step back into the 1940s for a weekend to celebrate Waltham Abbey’s key role in the Second World War through reenactors, vehicles, entertainers and much more!
Included with 2026 Annual Pass – pay once, return FREE all year!
Walking Tour
Join us for a fascinating journey through our unique industrial heritage site. Explore the grounds of the historic Gunpowder Mills as our knowledgeable guides take you on a 2.5-hour tour filled with great stories and insights.
Described by Historic England as the ‘most important site for the history of explosives in Europe’, this remarkable and beautiful landscape chronicles the development of explosives, propellants and finally rocket motors and fuels from the Civil War to the Cold War, including rare surviving WW1 factory buildings, and intriguing structures and earthworks.
You'll take in grand structures like our E-Traverse, Quinan Stove, Grand Nitrator and Press houses. All these sit within a peaceful haven for nature, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and home to foxes, deer and birds. So bring your camera and binoculars!
Please be aware that the terrain is uneven in parts and strong footwear and long trousers are recommended. Toilets are available at the start and end of the tour but not enroute.
Our cafe will be open on the day and space will be provided indoors and out for you to eat, discuss your experience, and get to know new people.
Tickets are limited so don't miss out!
Railway Weekend
Explore our wonderful Gunpowder Railway and Miniature Railway. and marvel at guest model railway layouts in action.
Whether you are an avid model railway enthusiast, a Thomas the Tank Engine fan or just fancy a day out at our peaceful and fascinating site, there is something for everyone this weekend.
RAILWAY-THEMED ACTIVITIES
• Model railway exhibits • Large railway sets to build and play • Railway Rides and guided tour of the Ordnance Railway Museum • Themed children’s activities
EXPLORE THE MILLS
• Exhibitions • Tractor Tours • Heritage buildings • Wildlife and nature
Included with 2026 Annual Pass – pay once, return FREE all year!
Walking Tour
Join us for a fascinating journey through our unique industrial heritage site. Explore the grounds of the historic Gunpowder Mills as our knowledgeable guides take you on a 2.5-hour tour filled with great stories and insights.
Described by Historic England as the ‘most important site for the history of explosives in Europe’, this remarkable and beautiful landscape chronicles the development of explosives, propellants and finally rocket motors and fuels from the Civil War to the Cold War, including rare surviving WW1 factory buildings, and intriguing structures and earthworks.
You'll take in grand structures like our E-Traverse, Quinan Stove, Grand Nitrator and Press houses. All these sit within a peaceful haven for nature, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and home to foxes, deer and birds. So bring your camera and binoculars!
Please be aware that the terrain is uneven in parts and strong footwear and long trousers are recommended. Toilets are available at the start and end of the tour but not enroute.
Our cafe will be open on the day and space will be provided indoors and out for you to eat, discuss your experience, and get to know new people.
Tickets are limited so don't miss out!
Pirates Weekend
Set sail for the Gunpowder Mills to for tales of buccanneers and pirates, with a treasure hunt, obstacle courses, soft play, reenactors, sea shanties and more!
Included with 2026 Annual Pass – pay once, return FREE all year!
Walking Tour
Join us for a fascinating journey through our unique industrial heritage site. Explore the grounds of the historic Gunpowder Mills as our knowledgeable guides take you on a 2.5-hour tour filled with great stories and insights.
Described by Historic England as the ‘most important site for the history of explosives in Europe’, this remarkable and beautiful landscape chronicles the development of explosives, propellants and finally rocket motors and fuels from the Civil War to the Cold War, including rare surviving WW1 factory buildings, and intriguing structures and earthworks.
You'll take in grand structures like our E-Traverse, Quinan Stove, Grand Nitrator and Press houses. All these sit within a peaceful haven for nature, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and home to foxes, deer and birds. So bring your camera and binoculars!
Please be aware that the terrain is uneven in parts and strong footwear and long trousers are recommended. Toilets are available at the start and end of the tour but not enroute.
Our cafe will be open on the day and space will be provided indoors and out for you to eat, discuss your experience, and get to know new people.
Tickets are limited so don't miss out!
Fireworks
Join us for fireworks and so much more at the Royal Gunpowder Mills on Saturday 7 November from 3:30 PM for a mesmerising display of fireworks set against the historic backdrop of the mills. Bring your family and friends for an unforgettable experience that will light up the night sky.
Kids Open Day
Join us for a fun-packed May half term at the Gunpowder Mills with a full day of hands-on activities, creativity and discovery. We’re doing nature-inspired sun prints, slime making, rocket making and launching, a bunting design competition ahead of our 1940s Weekend, and more!
Please note: this is a special event and is not included in Annual Pass entry due to additional activities, materials and staffing. Limited ticket availability - prebooking encouraged.
Walking Tour
Join us for a guided walking tour of the Gunpowder Mills and discover the fascinating history of this unique industrial heritage site. Led by our expert guides, you’ll explore key buildings and landscapes while hearing stories that bring the site’s past to life.
Described by Historic England as the “most important site for the history of explosives in Europe”, the Mills offer a rare glimpse into centuries of innovation set within a beautiful wildlife-rich landscape.
Home Education Day
Step back in time this May for a VE Day–themed Home Education Day with a difference. Explore life on the WWII Home Front through immersive, hands-on activities, meet a WWII ARP Warden, and tour our newly refurbished 1940s display. With creative workshops, evacuee-themed activities, and wartime drills, it’s a flexible and family-friendly learning day designed especially for home learners. Pre-booked tickets only
International Living History Festival
It’s time…..to Time Travel! as the Mills will come to life as over 40 of the best in Living History re-enactment groups set up over 40 camps in and around the historic buildings, representing life from the Stone Age, through the Viking era to the 1940’s and beyond.
Armoury Tours
Join us for a special tour of the Armoury, which showcases a comprehensive collection of small arms and militaria. The exhibition displays over 300 historic firearms covering the periods from the English Civil War to present day conflicts.
