EDEN camp, a modern history theme museum near Malton, is the only one of its type in the world.

An actual prisoner of war camp, it was built in 1942 by Italian POWs.

The site occupies six acres with the displays housed within the original huts.

Each hut houses different themes and with over 25 of them, all aspects of the Second World War have been well and truly covered.

The displays all revolve around the 'people's war' from 1939 to 1945 - focusing on the Blitz, air raids and the role of the land army, for example.

Sound, smell, smoke machines and clever use of lighting bring the reconstructions to life.

Recently, a garden of remembrance was created and a newspaper reading room.

Eden Camp also has a growing collection of Second World War operational military vehicles, including a Green Goddess, MK3 Hurricane and T34 Tank.

A Reunion Hut has many wartime stories and photographs on display, making it a trip down memory lane for many visitors, and any additions are welcomed.

The aptly-named Prisoners' Canteen, Officers' Mess Tea Rooms and Garrison's Cinema Bar offer refreshments, although they vary depending on the 'ration' situation.

A two-part assault course is available for younger visitors to see how they would have fared with the strict army training regime.

Braille sheets and tapes are available.

The museum is open from 10am to 5pm (last admission 4pm), and visitors are advised to allow a minimum of three to four hours for a visit.

Please note that school visits are in progress Mondays to Fridays, except during school holidays.

Free parking is available for cars and coaches.

For more information, call (01635) 697777 or go to the web page www.edencamp.co.uk.

Updated: 14:44 Wednesday, June 04, 2003