Lunchtime Talk: The People's Victory
Join Professor Lucy Noakes as she explores what VE Day was like for those who lived through the Second World War, particularly for those who had experienced loss.
On VE Day in May 1945, Westminster Abbey threw open its doors from 9am until 10pm to welcome over 25,000 people who attended short ‘thanksgiving for victory’ services which were held every hour.
However, alongside street celebrations, many were still waiting for news of family members who had vanished in the fog of war, whilst thousands of British soldiers were interned in the Far East.
Drawing on the largest collection of British social history on record, the Mass Observation Archives, Professor Lucy Noakes will explore the diversity of public feeling that accompanied the announcement that the war in Europe had concluded. She will reflect on the grief that many felt for their lost loved ones and highlight the hopes and anxieties of a nation in flux.
This event is part of our monthly Lunchtime Talk series. On the second Wednesday of every month, join us at St Margaret’s Church for an in-depth exploration of part of the Abbey’s history.
About Lucy Noakes
Lucy Noakes is Professor of Modern History at the University of Essex. She is a social and cultural historian whose work focuses on the experience and memory of war in 20th-century Britain. She is currently President of the Royal Historical Society.
Ticketing information
This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.
If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.
Free for Associates - Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Timings
Doors will open at 12.45pm and the talk will begin at 1.00pm. There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1.40pm.
Meeting location
This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information.
Beyond Victory season
This event is part of the Beyond Victory season. On VE - or Victory in Europe - Day in May 1945, Westminster Abbey hosted thanksgiving services every hour, welcoming an estimated 25,000 people. Join us this May and June as we unpack life beyond victory, with a season of events about rebuilding society and the legacy of conflict.
