A Journey Through Time: Our Trip to Eden Camp
In April, our Has2Bhappy community had the incredible opportunity to step back in time with a visit to Eden Camp Modern History Museum in North Yorkshire. This special trip was more than just a day out—it was a meaningful way for our service users to connect with the past as we look forward to the 80th Anniversary of VE Day.
Bringing History to Life
Eden Camp, a former prisoner of war camp turned immersive museum, offered a powerful and accessible way for our group to learn about life during World War II. Walking through the original huts, we explored real-life stories of evacuation, rationing, air raids, and wartime Britain—many of which resonated deeply with memories and stories shared by our service users’ grandparents.
For some, it was a chance to reflect on family history, hearing about the sacrifices made and the resilience shown by their relatives during those turbulent times. The exhibits sparked questions, conversations, and even a few moments of poignant silence. It reminded us all how important it is to preserve and share these stories.
Linking Past to Present
With the 80th VE Day celebrations approaching, our trip gave everyone a deeper understanding of why this milestone matters. Victory in Europe Day marked the end of the war in Europe in 1945, and even now, eight decades later, it’s a powerful symbol of peace, unity, and hope.
Thanks to this visit, our service users will now be able to take part in the commemorations with a greater sense of connection and meaning. We’ve also planned some creative activities back at home to keep the spirit alive—expect wartime music, bunting, and even a few victory rolls!
And Of Course… Loads of Fun!
But it wasn’t all learning—fun was very much on the agenda! From the nostalgic sweet shop to the dig-for-victory garden, laughter and smiles were everywhere. The group especially loved the interactive displays, the sensory experiences, and having a go at some of the hands-on exhibits.
The day ended with plenty of chatter about everyone's favourite part of the day. We even had a few reenactments of ration book negotiations!
A Big Thank You
We want to say a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Eden Camp for being so welcoming and accommodating, and to our amazing team for making the day such a success. It’s trips like these that show how learning, joy, and inclusion can go hand-in-hand.
We can’t wait for the next adventure!