Continuum Attractions acquires Eden Camp Modern History Museum, one of North Yorkshire’s most iconic visitor attractions

Image credit: Continuum Attractions. From left: Andrew Pawson, Continuum Attractions CEO, Dorothy Stubbs, Continuum Attractions COO, with outgoing directors Paula Peace and Howard Johnson. 

Located on the outskirts of Malton, North Yorkshire, Eden Camp is an award-winning visitor attraction that first opened in 1987. Originally a World War II prisoner of war camp, the site was transformed by Stanley Johnson into a modern history museum offering an immersive experience of life in the 1940s. Today, Eden Camp welcomes over 125,000 visitors annually and is recognised as an educational exemplar, hosting school groups and themed events throughout the year.

The museum features 22 original huts, each telling a different story from the Home Front to the Front Lines, alongside the Heritage Hall, which houses a unique collection of restored military vehicles. Eden Camp has won multiple accolades, including Best Educational Day Out (SME News Northern Enterprise Awards) for three consecutive years and TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards.

After nearly 40 years of family ownership, co-owners Howard Johnson and Paula Peace have decided to sell, marking a significant milestone for the Johnson family.

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

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.”

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.”

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.

“The sale to Continuum will ensure the museum remains in the hands of experienced operators whose objectives are closely aligned with those of our clients, and we look forward to seeing the next chapter of this exceptional heritage and visitor experience unfold.”

Legal representation was provided by York-based Harrowells on behalf of Eden Camp and Knights on behalf of Continuum Attractions.

For further information on this press release, contact: