An action-packed summer of special events at Pendennis Castle kicks off next week with Pendennis At War, a celebration of wartime spirit offering visitors a journey back in time to the 1940s.

As the command centre for coastal defences, and a base for training troops, Pendennis Castle was at the strategic heart of Falmouth’s home front. That spirit will be recreated with music, dancing, military re-enactment groups, and special firings of Pendennis’ impressive collection of period guns.

Property manager Wendy Amer said: “During the Second World War Pendennis Castle was a key part of the war effort, and this special event recreates the best of British wartime spirit – celebrating the triumph in the face of adversity and exploring the challenges of defending the castle and country throughout the war.

“Plus, there are interactive talks and activities and a celebration of wartime song, dance and the best of life on the Falmouth home front.”

The event will feature a packed programme of entertainment and activities will bring the castle to life from Tuesday, July 25, to Thursday, July 27, including live music from The Spitfire Sisters, a trio who recreate the vintage sounds of wartime, and dance lessons from Mad About Swing. Visitors can also experience the glamorous side of the British spirit with vintage hair and make-up makeovers, including victory rolls, ruby red lips, and Hollywood glamour.

The weekend also offers a chance to reflect on the 75th anniversary of one of the most important commando operations of World War II, the Raid on St Nazaire. Operation Chariot took place on March 28, 1942, and saw a naval flotilla carrying army commandos set off from Falmouth harbour, bound for the coast of Nazi-occupied France. Its target: the huge Normandy dry dock, the only facility on the Atlantic seaboard big enough to take Hitler's largest warship, the Tirpitz. Talks about the raid will take place throughout the day including a chance for children to command a flotilla of model boats.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to take part in the action with a special Operation Cutlass Commando Experience. Embark on a top secret mission behind enemy lines, with an explosive slice of theatrical live action. Join a special taskforce of commandos who have been training at Pendennis Castle and accompany them on a covert mission to destroy a deadly Nazi gun battery on the coast of France.

Other action includes a chance to learn about Barnes Wallis and the legendary Dam Busters, an interactive potted history of D-Day and explosive demolitions displays.

Pendennis At War takes place from July 25 to 27 July, and entrance to the castle and grounds is included in the ticket price of £29.35 for families, £11.30 for adults, and £6.75 for children.

Other summer events at Pendennis Castle include a Grand Medieval Joust on August 1 and 2, 8 and 9, and 15 and16 August, a Pirates Attack extravaganza on August 22 to 24, and a programme of Hands On History family activities.