The Cold War Network will open National Cold War Heritage Week 2026 with a launch event at the Yorkshire Air Museum, bringing together museums, researchers and heritage partners for an afternoon of talks, media opportunities and networking.
Taking place in The Chapel at the Yorkshire Air Museum (YO41 4AU), the event will gather representatives from The Cold War Network, Yorkshire Air Museum, the University of York and English Heritage, alongside a special presentation from Iain Betson on the Wartime Broadcasting Service.
The programme is designed to highlight national collaboration, share new research and provide a platform for contributors involved in this year’s coordinated heritage activity.
Attendees will have access to Cold War aircraft, collections and subject specialists, with opportunities throughout the afternoon for interviews, filming, photography and informal discussion.
Programme for the Day
11:30am – 12:00pm
Iain Betson – Wartime Broadcasting Service presentation
12:00pm – 12:15pm
Kevin Booth – English Heritage
12:15pm – 12:50pm
Lunch, refreshments and networking
12:50pm – 1:05pm
Dr Peter Robinson – The Cold War Network
1:05pm – 1:25pm
Jerry Ibbotson – Yorkshire Air Museum
1:25pm – 2:00pm
Ryan John Ellis, Wenna Potter and Lily Green – University of York
From 2:00pm onwards
Networking, media opportunities and informal discussions
A National Platform for Britain’s Cold War Heritage
National Cold War Heritage Week brings together museums, archives, historic sites and community groups across the UK to explore the people, places and stories that shaped the Cold War at home.
This year’s programme includes exhibitions, talks, tours and digital content designed to broaden public understanding of a period that continues to influence global affairs.
The Cold War Network looks forward to welcoming contributors, partners and media representatives to the launch event as the 2026 programme gets underway.