A Day Out at Eden Camp: WWII History Brought to Life in Malton, North Yorkshire
If you’re a fan of history, particularly World War II, and are looking for an engaging, educational, and family-friendly day out, look no further than Eden Camp in Malton, North Yorkshire. As someone who visited this fascinating place during the summer of 2024, I can honestly say that Eden Camp is one of the most immersive living history museums I’ve experienced. It’s not just a day out, it’s a step back in time, full of captivating stories, interactive exhibits, and even a few surprises that will leave an impression on both young and old.
In this post, I’ll give you an overview of our visit, why it’s such a great place for families, why it's ideal for history lovers, and—importantly—how it’s a dog-friendly destination. If you're intrigued and want a closer look, be sure to check out my YouTube video for a virtual tour and my take on this historical gem!
What is Eden Camp?
Eden Camp is a former WWII prisoner of war camp that has been transformed into an award-winning living history museum. Opened in 1987, it offers a unique and immersive experience of life during the war years, both on the front lines and the home front. The museum occupies the actual huts that once housed POWs, which adds an authentic atmosphere to the entire experience.
Walking through Eden Camp, you really get a sense of what life was like during the 1940s. Each hut has been turned into an exhibit, focusing on different aspects of the war: the Blitz, rationing, the role of women, and even the darker side of the conflict with sections dedicated to concentration camps. The huts are filled with artifacts, videos, and displays that capture the intensity, hardships, and bravery of the people during WWII.
A Family-Friendly Day Out
What makes Eden Camp so special is that it offers something for everyone, making it an ideal day out for families. Whether you're a history buff, a curious child, or someone who just wants to enjoy a unique day out, you’ll find plenty to keep you engaged.
Children will love the interactive exhibits. There’s plenty of hands-on activities designed to keep younger visitors entertained while also teaching them about this critical period in history. From trying on helmets and uniforms to exploring military vehicles, it’s an environment where learning is made fun.
One of my favorite things about Eden Camp is that it’s designed to be an outdoor museum, with the huts spread across the campgrounds, giving you the chance to walk, explore, and discover at your own pace. There are picnic areas dotted around the site, perfect for a break during your visit. Bring a packed lunch, or you can grab a bite at their café, which offers a variety of meals, snacks, and drinks. The home-made chips are a must-try!
If your kids are anything like mine, they might not be big fans of traditional museums where they can’t touch anything, but Eden Camp is different. Its engaging exhibits keep them entertained whilst being educational.
Dog-Friendly Fun
As a dog lover, I was thrilled to learn that Eden Camp is dog-friendly. We brought our own dog, Missy, along for the day, and she loved exploring the grounds with us. Dogs are allowed in most areas, which means your furry friend can enjoy the day out with the rest of the family. There’s even water bowls available around the site to keep your pet hydrated on those hot summer days.
What to Expect in the Huts
Each hut is an adventure in itself, offering a different aspect of WWII history. The level of detail in the exhibits is incredible, and the range of topics covered means there’s always something new to discover. Here are a few highlights from my visit:
- The Blitz Experience (Hut 5): Walking through this exhibit, you’re hit with the sights and sounds of an air raid. It’s dark, loud, and a little eerie, but it’s also a powerful reminder of what civilians endured during nightly bombings.
- Women at War (Hut 6): This exhibit focuses on the crucial role women played during the war, from working in factories to serving in the armed forces. It’s a fantastic insight into how society changed during the war years, and I found it especially inspiring.
- U-Boat Menace (Hut 15): Dedicated to the Battle of the Atlantic and the threat posed by German U-boats, this hut features a mock-up of a submarine control room, complete with original equipment and fascinating stories of the men who risked their lives beneath the waves.
- Prisoners of War (Hut 8): This exhibit focuses on the history of POWs, giving you a glimpse of what life was like for the men who were held at Eden Camp and other camps across the UK. It’s one of the more sobering exhibits, but an important part of the museum’s story.
- Military Vehicles & Hardware: Scattered throughout the camp are a number of restored military vehicles, including tanks, trucks, and artillery pieces. You can get up close to these massive machines, and it’s great fun for kids (and adults!) to marvel at the engineering that went into these behemoths.
A Personal Recommendation
I can’t recommend Eden Camp enough as a day out. Whether you’re a family with young children, teenagers, or history enthusiasts, there’s something for everyone here. The amount of care and attention to detail in the exhibits is remarkable, and the fact that it’s all housed within the original POW camp adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience.
Not only is Eden Camp educational, but it’s also a great way to get outdoors, enjoy some fresh air, and explore at your own pace. The picnic areas are a lovely spot for a break, and there’s even a playground for younger children to burn off some energy while you relax.
Plus, being dog-friendly means you don’t have to leave your furry family members behind. Missy had a great time strolling through the camp, and it was nice to be able to bring her along without worrying about finding dog care for the day.
Plan Your Visit
Eden Camp is located just outside Malton, making it an easy drive from many parts of North Yorkshire and beyond. There’s plenty of parking on site, and tickets are reasonably priced, especially given how much there is to see and do. I highly recommend booking tickets online in advance, especially during peak times, as it can get busy.
Opening times and ticket prices may vary depending on the season, so be sure to check the Eden Camp website before you visit for the most up-to-date information. The museum is open most days throughout the year, but it’s always worth checking ahead to avoid disappointment.
Watch My Visit on YouTube!
If you’re curious to see more of Eden Camp before planning your visit, be sure to check out my video on The Wanderlust Way YouTube channel. In the video, I take you on a tour of the camp, highlighting some of the most interesting exhibits and sharing my thoughts on why it’s such a great destination for families, history lovers, and dog owners alike.
I had such a wonderful time visiting Eden Camp, and I hope my video gives you a real sense of just how special this place is. Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to my channel for more travel adventures, tips, and historical explorations!
Final Thoughts
If you’re in or around North Yorkshire and looking for a memorable day out, Eden Camp should be high on your list. With its fascinating history, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect blend of education and entertainment. Whether you’re walking through the darkened halls of the Blitz or standing in awe of a towering tank, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the sacrifices made during WWII—and, most likely, a desire to return.
So pack up the family, bring the dog, and head out to Eden Camp for a journey through history you won’t forget!