Eden Camp, Malton, North Yorkshire sold to new owners

Eden Camp Modern History Museum, near Malton in North Yorkshire, was once a prisoner of war camp and now welcomes 125,000 visitors each year.

It is known for its immersive storytelling about life during the Second World War and has now been acquired by York-based Continuum Attractions.

The sale marks the end of more than 40 years of family ownership under Howard Johnson and Paula Peace, who ran the museum following the death of their father Stan Johnson.

The late Mr Johnson purchased the camp in 1985 and opened it as a museum in 1987.

Andrew Pawson, chief executive of Continuum Attractions, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Eden Camp into the Continuum family.

“Its authenticity, educational value and reputation as a much-loved visitor attraction make it a natural fit for us.

“I remember visiting Eden Camp many years ago and appreciating the outstanding depth it offers our understanding of life at war, along with the immersive way it tells us those stories.

“It has always been about people – from the veterans who helped create it, to the generations of schoolchildren who continue to learn from it – and we are committed to protecting that legacy while also securing its future.

“Our aim is to invest for the long term, support its dedicated team and ensure that Eden Camp continues to inspire guests of all ages with its powerful storytelling.”

Continuum Attractions owns and operates several well-known visitor destinations, including York’s Chocolate Story, The Real Mary King’s Close in Edinburgh, and The Loch Ness Centre.

The acquisition includes the freehold of the 5.8-acre site and its collection of wartime exhibits.

Mr Johnson said: “After more than 40 years as a family-run museum, we feel incredibly proud of what Eden Camp has become.

“The stories told within these huts are as relevant today as they were when the museum first opened.

“We have received several approaches over the years to sell but now is the right time.

“We know that under Continuum’s stewardship, Eden Camp will continue to thrive, develop and safeguard its heritage for generations to come.”

Ms Peace said: “Eden Camp has always been about keeping history alive in a way that is engaging, meaningful and accessible to all.

“We are delighted that Continuum Attractions will now take Eden Camp forward.

“Their expertise will ensure the museum continues to thrive, and I look forward to seeing how they build on our family’s legacy while keeping the spirit of Eden Camp at the heart of everything it does.”

Jon Patrick, head of leisure and development at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, said: “Eden Camp attracted interest from around the world, including a number of military collectors and a range of visitor attraction operators and private investors, reflecting its exceptional reputation and growth potential.

“Continuum Attractions were however the first party we spoke with, as we believed they would be an excellent fit for the business and see the potential on offer.”

Eden Camp originally opened in 1942 as an Italian prisoner of war camp. It now tells the story of “The People’s War”, exploring British life between 1939 and 1945 through realistic tableaux, moving figures, sounds, and even smells.

The museum is open to the public from March to November each year and is especially popular as a school trip destination.

It also attracts veterans, their families, and anyone interested in learning more about Britain during wartime.

The sale ensures Eden Camp remains locally owned and continues to be one of Yorkshire’s most important and iconic visitor attractions.