Famous Yorkshire museum Eden Camp is bought by Continuum Attractions
A YORKSHIRE museum which brings the Second World War to life has gained new owners.
Eden Camp Modern History Museum has been acquired by the York-based visitor experience specialist, Continuum Attractions for an undisclosed sum.
The former prisoner of war camp, which is just outside Malton, attracts around 125,000 guests annually and has become famous for its immersive storytelling around the reality of life in the Second World War.
The sale was managed by specialist leisure property adviser Christie & Co and sees York-based Continuum Attractions secure the freehold of the 5.8-acre site and its extensive collection of historical exhibits.
A spokesman said: “Eden Camp was purchased by Stan Johnson in 1985 with the aim of making it a modern history museum; something he achieved when it opened two years later. Following his passing in 2015, the attraction has been operated and expanded by his children, Howard Johnson and Paula Peace.
"It has been purchased by Continuum, owner and operator of some of the UK’s most popular heritage attractions including York’s Chocolate Story, The Real Mary King’s Close in Edinburgh, The Loch Ness Centre, and Oxford Castle & Prison. The sale was supported by Continuum’s solicitor, Knights.”
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.”
Commenting on the sale, 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: “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.”
Eden Camp is Mr Pawson’s first acquisition as Continuum’s CEO, after he took up the role earlier this year. He is leading a number of brand reviews, which continue to take place across the portfolio of attractions.
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.”