In a thrilling announcement for history enthusiasts and families, Eden Camp Modern History Museum has unveiled plans for an action-packed “Tank Week” during the May half term holiday. Running from 24th May to 1st June, this special event promises to bring the power and engineering of military armoured vehicles roaring back to life.
Set within the authentic surroundings of Britain’s only remaining WWII prisoner of war camp, visitors will experience an immersive journey through tank history with live demonstrations, expert talks, and hands-on activities suitable for all ages.
Sherman M50 Takes Centre Stage
The highlight of Tank Week will be the impressive Sherman M50, a Cold War-era modification of the iconic WWII Sherman tank. This rare vehicle will be on prominent display, offering visitors an exceptional opportunity to examine up close a machine that played a significant role in 20th-century conflicts.
Nick Hill, Museum Manager at Eden Camp, explained the appeal: “Tank Week is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to get up close to some incredible pieces of military history, including the standout Sherman M50, and to truly feel what it was like to operate and maintain these beasts of steel.”
Program of Events
The week features a diverse range of activities designed to engage tank enthusiasts and newcomers alike:
- Live tank demonstrations will showcase restored vehicles in action, with the ground-shaking rumble of authentic engines bringing history dramatically to life
- Engine start-ups and walkarounds will provide insights into the mechanical complexities of these massive machines, with restoration experts on hand to discuss their preservation work
- Educational “Tank Talks” will explain the four defining elements of a tank through engaging presentations from the museum’s knowledgeable staff
- Interactive displays will feature models, uniforms, vehicle parts and wartime artifacts for hands-on exploration
- Families can participate in the special Tank Trail challenge, hunting for shells of various sizes to crack a code and win sweet treats from the shop
Historic Venue Adds Authenticity
What makes Eden Camp’s Tank Week particularly special is the venue itself. As Britain’s only remaining prisoner of war camp with preserved original huts, the site near Malton provides an authentic historical backdrop for the exhibition.
Built in 1942, Eden Camp has been transformed into an immersive museum telling the story of “The People’s War” – the social history of life in Britain from 1939 to 1945. The museum welcomed over 100,000 visitors in 2023 and recently received £224,000 in funding from North Yorkshire Council to restore its original POW huts.
Visitor Information
Tickets for Tank Week are available now, with advance booking discounts offered. Adult tickets are £19 on the day or £17 if booked ahead, while children’s tickets are £15 on the day or £14 in advance. Children under five enter free, and family ticket packages are available. Group discounts make this an attractive option for clubs and societies with a military interest.
The museum, which won “Best Educational Day Out” in the 2023 SME Northern Enterprise Awards for the third consecutive year, houses an impressive collection including thousands of military items and an archive containing over 103,000 documents, artifacts, and photographs.
For tank enthusiasts and families looking for an educational adventure this May half term, Eden Camp’s Tank Week offers a unique opportunity to experience the might and majesty of armoured warfare in a setting steeped in authentic wartime history.
For more information and to book tickets, visit the Eden Camp website at https://edencamp.co.uk/whats-on/may-half-term-fun.
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