Learn about the hidden world of spy tech

A new exhibition at the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford will explore code-breaking, cyber security and secret communications

First opened in Bradford, West Yorkshire, in 1983, the National Science and Media Museum has long charted the evolution of image and sound technologies while exploring their impact on everyday lives. It will now delve deep into how wartime informed some of these technologies following the unveiling of a new exhibition called Top Secret: From Ciphers to Cyber Security. After successful runs at London’s Science Museum and Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum, Bradford’s institute is the latest to host around 100 objects related to the often highly classified underbelly of conflict.

The collection, which reveals numerous stories of communications intelligence from the last century, includes cypher machines used during the Second World War, secure telephones of the type provided to British prime ministers, and an encryption key given to the Queen.

Other exhibits examine the more recent history of cyber security and the role of GCHQ in combating threats from what is increasingly becoming a digital front line.

Commenting about the opening on, curator of the National Science and Media Museum Toni Booth said: “We are incredibly excited to be welcoming Top Secret to Bradford. The exhibition will showcase how advancements in image and film have impacted domestic spyware throughout the Cold War era, and ultimately influenced modern technologies that have transformed how we communicate today.”

Entry is free, although booking is essential. Top Secret: From Ciphers to Cyber Security will run until 5 June, 2022.