A much-loved tourist attraction on the outskirts of Malton has been put on the market.
Eden Camp Modern History Museum has been owned by the Johnson family for 40 years.
Originally a Prisoner of War camp, the site was purchased by Stan Johnson in 1985 and, following a £750,000 investment, became the world’s first modern history museum
But the site is now on the market, with the owners seeking “substantial offers” as they look to retire.
Today, Eden Camp tells the story of The People’s War and the social history of life in Britain from 1939 to 1945.
It features realistic tableaux, moving figures, authentic sounds and smells to transport visitors “back in time”.
Howard Johnson, son of the late Stan Johnson said:
“Since our father passed away in 2015, my sister and I have continued as custodians of this incredible business.
“We have consistently invested in improving the facilities and customer experience and have a fantastic team we work with here, but we too are at that time in our lives where it makes sense to pass the reigns to new owners.
“I’ve been contacted a number of times over the years asking if we would sell and so this tremendous opportunity now becomes a reality.”
Christie & Co is marketing the business to include the valuable freehold property.
A spokesperson for Eden Camp Modern History Museum said:
“Following the announcement of the planned sale, it is very much business as usual.
"We are busy preparing for another fantastic year after the success of 2024, welcoming visitors to explore the collections and enjoy a host of events.
"Our sights are very much set on February half-term and the season opening in March."
The spokesperson added:
“The owners are rightly proud that this has been a family business for 40 years and want to retire, but ensure Eden Camp is being sold with the intention that it stays as a museum for future generations to enjoy and continue to safeguard the incredible artefacts and memorabilia remain as part of this unique collection.
"The current owners Paula Peace and Howard Johnson are excited at what the future holds for one of the region’s best-loved visitor attractions.”
Over the last few years the business has invested over £1.25m in renovation and restoration works to the fabric of the buildings.
It’s added a new “Blitz Experience”, a remodelled entrance, new exhibition spaces and the Heritage Exhibition Hall which provides an undercover display arena for Eden Camp’s collection of unique and rare military vehicles and equipment.
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