Eden Camp WWII Museum: Yorkshire POW camp to bring history to life with return of Tank Week including rare 'Behind the Hatch’ experience with iconic Sherman M50 tank
Eden Camp, the prisoner of war camp museum, will be bringing history to life in its Tank Week event including a rare experience with the iconic Sherman M50 tank.
Eden Camp, the modern military museum near Malton, has announced its 2026 seasonal events, with a list of activities for families, friends, and history enthusiasts.
The museum hosts historical experience, set within the original buildings of a former Second World War Prisoner of War camp. Every exhibit tells a personal story, showcasing the resilience, sacrifice and spirit of those who lived through wartimes.
Tanks, military vehicles, re-enactments, there is a lot to do at the museum.
This May half term, history will come alive at Eden Camp, with the unique opportunity to step inside one of the 20th century’s most iconic armoured vehicles.
From May 23 to 29, 2026, visitors can go ‘Behind the Hatch’ and climb inside the legendary Sherman M50 tank and see history from the driver’s seat.
During this week, history lovers can receive a personal introduction to the Sherman M50, affectionately known as ‘Mother’, explore the crew compartment up close, capture photo opportunities from inside the tank and gain expert insight into the vehicle’s history and mechanics.
Tickets are £40 per person (including regular admission to Eden Camp) and require pre-booking.
Sessions are limited to eight people, for an intimate and immersive experience. Visitors must be at least 16 years old, physically fit enough to access the vehicle, and able to fit through the hatch. An activity waiver must be completed prior to participation.
The offering is part of Eden Camp’s Tank Week, running from May 23 to 31, 2026, and throughout the week, the museum will host a range of hands-on activities, including live tank demonstrations, remote-control tank courses, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly challenges to bring history to life.
Nick Hill, museum manager at Eden Camp, said: “Tank Week really gives a unique chance for visitors to get hands-on with remarkable pieces of military history, including the impressive Sherman M50.
“‘Behind the Hatch’ offers a rare and intimate glimpse into what it was like to operate these powerful machines.
“Whether you’re a tank enthusiast or visiting with family for the first time, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for both the vehicles and the people who operated them.”
The year ahead will also include the following events:
- Modern Military Weekend (June 6-7)
- WWI Living History Weekend (July 12-13)
- Summer holidays fun: Women at War (July 18 to September 1)
- Living History Weekend - Homefront Heroes (August 30-31)
- Back to the 1940s (October 10-11)
- October Half Term Spy Week (October 24-29)
- Halloween Street (October 30 to November 1)
Eden Camp is introducing lower ticket prices when you pre-book them online. Admission prices for adults (16+) are £17 pre-booked online and £20 on the day. Child (5-16) tickets are £15 pre-booked online and £18 on the day. Concession (65+) and family tickets are also available.