The world’s first model village, Bekonscot in Buckinghamshire, had its initial public open day on 4th August, 1929. Begun as a personal project of accountant Roland Callingham, the attraction continues to capture the hearts of visitors with its intricate details and nostalgic charm.

Callingham, a model railway enthusiast, created Bekonscot in his back garden; constructing an entire town to serve his model trains, featuring multiple stations, a butcher, baker, and circus big top. Initially created for private enjoyment, it was officially opened to the public by Princess Elizabeth in 1934, and was modified during World War II to feature tiny air raid wardens and wartime street scenes. Since the 90s, it has been architecturally preserved in its 1930s heyday.

This episode first aired in 2024

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The Retrospectors are Olly Mann, Rebecca Messina & Arion McNicoll, with Matt Hill.

Theme Music: Pass The Peas. Announcer: Bob Ravelli. Graphic Design: Terry Saunders. Edit Producer: Ollie Peart

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