In late May/early June 1940, Operation Dynamo saw the evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches and harbour of Dunkirk in northern France — using hundreds of what would become known as 'Dunkirk Little Ships'.
On the second May bank holiday — from 24-26 May 2024 — you've got a chance to see a number of these boats, as they moor up at St Katharine Docks by the Tower of London. For three days, you'll have the chance to admire the vessels (many prettily dressed in bunting), learn more about the part they played in the second world war, chat to owners, and maybe even step aboard one or two.
In fact, the boats will start sailing into London from 20 May, as part of the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships Commemorative Cruise, so if you're in the area anytime from then, pop into St Katharine Docks to see which are already in town.
The three day festival of Dunkirk boats is preceded by a Tea Dance on 23 May, to which everyone is invited to dance to music from the 1920s-50s and refresh themselves with tea and biscuits. Lessons with the Round in Circles dance troop will take place 1pm-4pm.
If you can't make it to this weekend, know that St Katharine Docks also hosts a Classic Boat Festival on 7 September 2024.
Dunkirks at the Docks, St Katharine Docks, 24-26 May 2024. Tea Dance on 23 May. All events are free.
