The North Yorkshire museum dedicates months to conserving hundreds of wartime artefacts
At Eden Camp in North Yorkshire, the new year brings a painstaking but essential task: the annual deep clean of Britain’s only remaining prisoner of war camp.
Built in 1942, Eden Camp’s 22 original huts now house immersive displays telling the story of life on the Home Front during the Second World War. But maintaining hundreds of wartime artefacts—from military uniforms to historical memorabilia—requires careful, specialised conservation work that can take several months to complete.
How They Do It
The conservation process requires a delicate touch. Staff use soft brushes, microfibre cloths, and cotton swabs to clean fragile objects, with distilled water for surfaces that need more attention. Leather items are treated with balsam to prevent cracking over time. Display cabinets and historical signage also undergo cleaning and restoration.
This year, particular attention has focused on military uniforms. Using non-invasive techniques, conservators have worked to stabilise and protect each garment without altering the original materials—ensuring these pieces survive for future generations to see.
While staff clean and rotate objects throughout the year, the annual deep clean ensures everything is in prime condition before the busy season begins.
February Half-Term Events
Eden Camp reopens for the main season with Home Front-themed activities during February half-term (16–22 February 2026), offering families hands-on experiences and interactive displays.
Visiting Information
Eden Camp is located near Malton in North Yorkshire. The museum welcomed over 100,000 visitors in 2023 and holds an archive of more than 103,000 documents, artefacts, and photographs.
Tickets are cheaper when pre-booked online: adults £17 (vs £20 on the day), children aged 5–16 £15 (vs £18). Season passes purchased before 31 January come with 30% off.
More information: edencamp.co.uk
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