Past exhibitions and displays

Was Chaucer a geek? Were the beautiful devices of the past the geek gadgets of their day? And with our screen-based, computer-driven lifestyles are we all geek?  Beginning in the present day this exhibition sweeps backwards in time, from the geeky enterprise of 1980s home computing all the way to medieval astronomical instruments.

15 May – 2 November 2014

The first steps towards true motion pictures, began with simple yet marvellous toys of optical illusion.  From the fancily named Thaumatrope to the simple Flip Book, the toys outlined in this exhibition heralded the emergence of cinema whilst retaining an enduring appeal long after movies hit the silver screen.

November 2012 – January 2013

Al-Mizan’ is the Arabic word for balance – both the familiar measuring instrument and the metaphorical pursuit of justice and harmony in all human endeavours. This exhibition explores the connections between the sciences and arts in Muslim societies.

26 October 2010 – 20 March 2011

The Museum’s second exhibition organized in collaboration with the Antiquarian Horological Society showcases clocks of provincial origins.  It quickly becomes clear that the clock is a powerful tool for studying how both technology and style not only spread but also are adapted to local circumstances. 

25 November 2006 – 15 April 2007