Swing orchestra headlines Eden Camp's Back to the 1940s weekend

The event takes place at the Ryedale attraction on Saturday October 10 and Sunday October 11, in partnership with Pickering CIC, and welcomes visitors of all ages to enjoy live music, explore period displays, and buy memorable souvenirs at vintage stalls.

New for 2026, the Mike Brown Swing Orchestra will perform at the Heritage Hall on Saturday evening at the popular tea dance.

Highlights for the popular weekend include:

♦ live Entertainment in the Heritage Hall and Garrison Bar from acclaimed vintage performers including Karen King, Don Gentile, Hattie Bee, and Kyle Evens as George Formby

♦ a 1940s Evening Dance on Saturday night, with the Mike Brown Swing Orchestra, DJ Paddy O'Kaye and the York Vintage Dance Group on the floor - included with Saturday and weekend tickets. Visitors can enjoy photo opportunities with themed backdrops and props, perfect for sharing on social media using #EdenCamp1940s

♦ re-enactors across the site, with visitors welcome to attend in period civilian or military dress

♦ vintage shopping featuring military uniforms from C&P Supplies, WWII inspired merchandise from War-Drobe, and 1940s collectables from Antiques Lady

♦ return of the much-loved Yorkshire Bus Bar, offering a selection of locally-brewed beers, spirits, and gins

Nick Hill, Museum Manager at Eden Camp, said: "There's a huge difference between reading about history and standing in it.

That's why 'Back to the 1940s' at Eden Camp is a fully immersive experience: we want people to come and experience history by seeing, touching, hearing, and tasting it. The weekend is a chance for history enthusiasts and curious minds to be transported to a different time and soak up the atmosphere whilst listening to great music, chatting to reenactors, and browsing the selection of merchandise on offer."

A free shuttle bus service, supported by Visit North Yorkshire and North Yorkshire Council, running Pickering, Galtres to Eden Camp will run on Saturday October 10 and Sunday October 11, allowing visitors to freely move between sites.

Visitors looking to make a weekend of the event can take advantage of camping at Galtres Retreat, with pitches available for the full weekend.

Camping requires a minimum three-night stay from October 9 to 12.

For more information, visit www.edencamp.co.uk/whats-on/back-to-the-1940s/ or visit prestigecountryparks.co.uk/event-camping for ticket prices.