Malton's Eden Camp modern history museum welcomes new owners

The former Prisoner of War camp, just outside Malton, attracts around 125,000 guests each year and is famed for its immersive storytelling around the reality of life in the Second World War.

The sale, managed by specialist leisure property adviser Christie & Co, sees York-based Continuum Attractions, owner and operator of some of the UK’s most popular visitor heritage attractions, secure the freehold of the 5.8-acre site and its extensive collection of historical exhibits.

Eden Camp was purchased by Stan Johnson in 1985 with the aim of making it the world’s only modern history museum - something he achieved when it opened two years later.

Following his passing in 2015, the attraction has been lovingly operated and expanded by his children, Howard Johnson and Paula Peace.

The sale to Continuum, whose brands include York’s Chocolate Story, The Real Mary King’s Close in Edinburgh, The Loch Ness Centre and Oxford Castle & Prison, ensures Eden Camp remains locally-owned, retaining its place as one of Yorkshire’s most iconic attractions.

Andrew Pawson, CEO 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.”

Outgoing Director Howard 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.”

Fellow Director, Paula Peace, said: 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.”

Eden Camp is Pawson’s first acquisition as Continuum’s CEO having been appointed earlier this year.

Continuum’s portfolio also includes Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower and GreenWood Family Park in North Wales, as well as operating the Coronation Street Experience and Emmerdale Village Tour in partnership with ITV.

Continuum Chair Sue Garland OBE commented: “Eden Camp is far more than a museum - it is a living piece of history and a cornerstone of the community. We are honoured to take on the responsibility of preserving its legacy while also looking forward to new opportunities to enhance what it offers.”

Jon Patrick, Head of Leisure & Development at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, added: “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, a former Italian prisoner of war camp opened in 1942, tells the story of The People’s War, the social history of life in Britain from 1939 to 1945.

The attraction is open between March and November each year.